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DYNAMIC Killarney businessman Pat O’Leary, who recently retired as managing director of Liebherr Container Cranes, has been appointed chairperson of the new Kerry Tourism Industry Federation.
The organisation was conceived from an all-county, open forum for employers and business people with a vested interest in the development and sustainability of tourism.
Pat O’Leary said greater cohesiveness and collaboration within the tourism industry will strengthen the tourism offering of the county.
Patrick O’Donoghue: Communications Officer
“With this in mind, we have established the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation to act as a collective voice for everyone with a vested interest in tourism,” he said.
“By thinking and working together, we will be better positioned to share information and learnings, we will be better equipped to liaise with government bodies and we can ensure that all areas of the county are represented and heard,” Pat added.
“We are satisfied that the full board is reflective of the geographic spread and sectoral diversity within the tourism industry in County Kerry.”
Tracy Coyne: Treasurer
The elected board members are Pat O’Leary, nominated by Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce (chairman); John Edwards, nominated by Tralee Chamber Alliance; Gary Curran, nominated by Dingle Peninsula Tourism Alliance; Helen McDwyer, nominated by Kenmare Chamber of Commerce and Tourism (secretary); Patrick O’Donoghue, nominated by the IHF Kerry branch (communications officer); Tracy Coyne, nominated by the IHF Kerry branch (treasurer) and Michael McCarthy, nominated by the Kerry branch of the Restaurants Association of Ireland.
The first order of business for KTIF is formalising a strategy that reflects the work done to date on researching and identifying areas of best practice in tourism management worldwide.The three key goals of advocating for the tourism industry in Kerry, enhancing communication at all levels and developing a strategic focus will be discussed in more detail at a members’ workshop due to take place on March 4.
The full list of membership groups that form the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation are the Vintners Federation of Ireland, IHF Kerry, B&B Ireland, Listowel Business and Community Alliance, Killarney Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, The Reeks District, Tralee Chamber Alliance, Ballybunion Development Company, Irish Caravan and Camping Council, the Kerry branch of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Dingle Peninsula Tourism Alliance, Kenmare Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, Waterville Events and Marketing Network and Hidden Valley of the Reeks.
Sage Taxis welcomes this new development and hopes to see great strides in the tourism industry for Kerry. For all your taxi needs don’t hesitate to contact Sage Taxi on 0861542890.