Plans for thousands more jobs in Co Kildare's tourism sector

Over 50 tourism professionals from across Kildare gathered in Kilkea Castle this week at a think-in to discuss plans for driving tourism in the county.

The event was hosted by new County Kildare Tourism Development Manager Aine Mangan and was also the members’ first opportunity to experience the remodelled venue.

Aine outlined Kildare’s strategic tourism vision and goal to support the creation of an additional 1,500 direct and indirect jobs within the hospitality and tourism across the county by the end of 2020.

She said:“Tourism plays a major part in the economy of the county, with over 550 enterprises involved in accommodation and food services in Kildare employing 5,500 people."

Ms Mangan said: “Every one of these people, including the professionals here today, are ambassadors for Kildare tourism.

She said: “This is why it is important that we get feedback on our vision from our providers, so that everyone feels that they are a part of our journey.

She said: “We believe that by having a cohesive strategy, and working together, that we can grow the Into Kildare brand by 40% between now and mid-2020.”

The meeting heard that one of the important factors will be training stakeholders across the county in maximising the use of technology to build numbers and deliver enhanced user experiences for visitors.

Both Kildare Mayor Miley Martin and CEO Peter Carey outlined the importance of capitalising on the opportunities afforded by both Kildare’s proximity to Dublin and the superb packages such as The Sport of Kings, St Brigid’s and Shackleton Trails.