Author: Sam Allcock

The Irish tourism sector is entering 2025 with optimism, following a strong showing in 2024 that showcased resilience and growth. Visitor numbers and overall expenditure saw a boost last year, thanks to an increase in supply and well-executed price adjustments. In 2024, over 300 new attractions and events were introduced across the country, contributing to the sector’s recovery and ongoing strength. One of the standout moments in Irish tourism in recent weeks has been the success of events like the Dublin Lunar New Year celebrations and St Brigid’s Weekend. Aimée van Wylick, creative producer of the Brigit: Dublin City Celebrating…

The European Union (EU) Commission is set to hold ‘reality checks’ with workers as part of efforts to balance the concerns of both business leaders and employees, according to a leading trade union representative. During a private meeting between European Commissioner for Trade, Valdis Dombrovskis, and trade union leader Esther Lynch on Wednesday, a commitment was made to give workers a genuine platform to share their perspectives. However, Lynch noted that while this gesture could address some of the concerns about potential negative impacts of the EU’s push for deregulation, the details remain unclear. Lynch, who represents 45 million workers…

The Department of Foreign Affairs in Ireland is in “full preparatory mode” as the country braces for potential tariffs on imports to the United States, according to Tánaiste Simon Harris. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Harris urged calm, stressing the importance of taking a measured approach in response to the situation. Harris, speaking in a recent statement, noted that US President Donald Trump is “transactional” in his approach to both business and politics. He referenced how Trump had previously paused tariffs on Mexico and Canada, illustrating the fluid nature of such trade decisions. Despite this, Harris pointed out that tariffs,…