While Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was in Mayo yesterday to perform the official opening of the new N5 Turlough-Westport route, Fáilte Ireland was also on the ground in Mayo this week, as it hosted two special workshops in Westport and Mulranny, aimed at developing a network of local experts working on the frontline in tourism and hospitality.
The initiative by the tourism body, which is designed to have local experts share useful information with visitors to the Clew Bay area and along the Wild Atlantic Way, was rolled out in the Westport Woods Hotel and Mulranny Park Hotel on Monday and Tuesday respectively, and was attended by local tourism and hospitality operators.
Fáilte Ireland says the goal of The Local Experts programme is to empower those working in the tourism industry to amplify the visitor experience by sharing additional local and expert information and inspiration. This in turn will enable visitors to immerse themselves fully in the local area, and encourage them to stay longer and do more there, consequently benefitting the local economy even further.
Linda Campbell, Visitor Engagement Manager with Fáilte Ireland, explained: "Fáilte Ireland’s Local Experts Programme is designed to empower those working in the tourism industry to amplify the visitor experience in places like Westport by sharing information, ideas and tips. Local knowledge of things to see and do, and places to explore, plays a key role in providing visitors with a rich and unique experience. The Westport programme is designed for all those working in the local Clew Bay tourism community, including those working in tourism accommodation, restaurants, pubs, taxis, public transport or volunteers on tourism initiatives."
The Local Experts Programme is being rolled out at 24 select tourism locations across Ireland from Dingle to Galway throughout 2023, and is a free initiative with places allocated on a first come, first served basis. See https://www.failteireland.ie/ for more.
