Niall Gibbons to head Tourism Ireland
Moving swiftly to fill the vacancy left by the departure of Paul O’Toole, the Board of Tourism Ireland this week appointed Niall Gibbons as Chief Executive, with immediate effect.
Niall is no stranger to the industry as he currently is Corporate Director of Services and Policy at Tourism Ireland. In his first public interview since being appointed, Niall spoke with ITIC Chief Executive Eamonn McKeon, who first asked him how he felt about taking on this formidable role.
Niall Gibbons, Chief Executive – Tourism Ireland
June 12th 2009
June 12th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
Was this video filmed and online on the same day? Impressive if this is the case!
Regarding the Aer Lingus decision to cut its winter long haul schedule from Shannon as mentioned in the video – I heard a spokesperson from the Midwest (name escapes me) on RTE radio this morning talking about this. It was heartening to hear a positive outlook expressed and a determination to work within what are obviously challenging times for everyone but particularly Shannon.
I wonder if smaller aircraft for thinner long haul routes may be something to consider for Aer Lingus in the future? Lots of carriers seem to be reviewing their future requirements currently.
In addition, if US customs clearance is introduced by the end of the year as expected at Shannon, this could provide a window of opportunity to market Shannon as an airport from which domestic US flights could effectively operate? Nothing more irritating than having to queue for hours after a long haul flight.
PS – Congratulations to Niall & Good Luck in the new job!
June 16th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
I’d like to add my congratulations to Niall and wish him luck with the new role. it’s certainly a tough time at the moment and the reduction in air capacity reflects this. Survey findings from visitor attractions around Ireland that we work with suggest that generally, with one or two exceptions, business from the UK and US is well down on last year. The domestic market though seems to be holding up which is one silver lining and perhaps suggests that people are choosing to holiday at home this year. Tourism Ireland has a vital role to play and I hope their marketing budget is maintained going forward. Marketing needs to be seen as an investment which is critical in the medium term to keep Ireland on the radar so that we are in a strong position to benefit once the economic cycle turns. Eoghan (Heritage Island).