The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) today launched its ‘Yes to Europe!’ campaign in support of the Lisbon Treaty to ensure Ireland remains fully engaged with the EU. The Federation’s 1,000 members have joined forces to urge their 60,000 employees throughout the country to vote ‘YES’ in recognition of the tremendous opportunities a strong and efficient Europe offers the hospitality sector. With total tourism revenues increasing to e6.5 billion in 2007, the sector now represents 4% of Ireland’s Gross National Product (GNP). According to Matthew Ryan, President, IHF, “Ireland has established a tremendous level of goodwill within Europe and has long been regarded as a welcoming country for visitors and overseas workers. The foundation of the Irish tourist brand is our people and our open, friendly and welcoming attitude. From a hospitality and tourism perspective, a resounding ‘yes’ to the Lisbon Treaty will substantiate this reputation in the eyes of the other 26 member states.” “No industry better represents what EU membership has done for Ireland than the hotels sector. On June 12th, there can be no standing still. We can take a step forward or a step back. We in the Irish Hotels Federation appealing to voters to say yes to a more effective Europe in which a confident and prosperous Ireland plays a full part.” Mr Ryan, states, “In the last 10 years Ireland has doubled its exports to other EU states (from e44 billion to e87 billion) and in the same period the revenue from mainland European tourists who visited Ireland has almost trebled to e1.6bn. Ireland’s active and positive involvement in the development of the EU continues to be a major attractor of foreign direct investment. It is important that Ireland’s positive support of the development of the EU continues. Anything other than a decisive ‘yes’ in the referendum would undermine the international perception of Ireland as a desirable place to visit and in which to do business.” As part of the Business Alliance for Europe, the IHF believes the strengthened and reformed institutions arising from the Treaty will allow the EU to achieve greater levels of economic prosperity and to face more effectively the challenges of development and enlargement. By playing a positive role in shaping Europe’s future, Ireland protects its status as a desirable location for both existing and future foreign investment by businesses seeking a foothold in the European market.
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