Ireland’s Association for Adventure Tourism (IAAT), an independent representative body for the adventure tourism sector on the island of Ireland was launched Wednesday 11th April 2018). The Adventure Tourism sector is estimated to be valued at €1.2 billion and is one of the fastest growing and most exciting sectors within the Irish tourism industry. The aims of the IAAT are to work with adventure tourism operators to grow the sectors profile and to develop the sector in a sustainable and responsible manner.
Speaking at the launch, IAAT Chief Executive, Mike Jones said that the formation of the IAAT began in early 2017 when several leading adventure tourism providers met to discuss how to develop what is a diverse and dispersed sector.
“Adventure Tourism involves a wide range of businesses including those providing watersports, hiking, mountain biking, adventure photography and nature watching services to name but a few. A number of businesses came together and agreed that the sector needed representation and that strength in numbers would be key to the development of adventure tourism in Ireland. The IAAT aims to represent the vast array of businesses which offer adventure experiences to both incoming and domestic tourists.”
Welcoming the launch of the IAAT, Orla Carroll, Director of Strategic Development at Fáilte Ireland said that Fáilte Ireland’s vision is for Ireland to be recognised internationally as a world-class, year-round activity destination.
“Activity tourism can make a significant contribution to Ireland’s economic and social development. It can also aid the spread of tourism activity to rural areas in every region as well as extending the tourism season throughout the year. Having a representative group dedicated to greater professionalism and the further development of the sector will enable us to raise our game in terms of the visitor experience. Fáilte Ireland looks forward to working with the IAAT to secure the continued growth in adventure tourism which will result in future additional revenue and employment throughout the country.”
Mike Jones concluded by saying that the formation of the IAAT is a key step in the evolution of adventure tourism in Ireland.
“We aim to be a driving force for growth in the sector and to help ensure that Ireland continues to establish itself as a world class adventure destination.”
Further information on the IAAT and how to apply for membership is available at: www.iaat.ie. Members will be able to access a range of benefits including exclusive networking opportunities, training opportunities and discounted services and products.
