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CSO data released today shows that the number of overseas visits to Ireland in the first five months of 2017 increased by 3.1% compared to the corresponding period in 2016.

Tourism Minister Shane Ross said:

Today’s figures from the CSO show that the number of overseas visitors to Ireland increased by over 3% in the first five months of 2017. As we approach the peak season, it is particularly encouraging to note that visitor numbers from all areas apart from Britain have increased, with North America particularly buoyant. As expected, there is a significant drop in the number of visitors from Great Britain but I know that the tourism agencies are working to counteract the effects of this on those areas most affected. It is important to remember that 2016 was a record breaking year for Irish tourism and when compared to 2015 figures, overall visitor numbers are still up by over 17%. I remain optimistic that we will see further overall growth in the peak season.

Comparing the period to the end of May with the same period in 2016:

• Overall trips to Ireland were up by 3.1% to 3.572 million visits;
• North America was up by 23.6% to 0.663 million;
• Visits from Mainland Europe were up by 4.0% to 1.261 million;
• Visits from the rest of the world increased by 21.7%, to 0.213 million;
• Great Britain registered a decrease of -6.8% with 1.435 million.