Minister Brendan Griffin welcomes Royal Visit

The Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Tourism, Mr Brendan Griffin TD, today welcomed the visit by the royal couple to Cork and Kerry this week.

Commenting on the visit, Minister Griffin said: “I am delighted that the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, are visiting counties Cork and Kerry this week and I am honoured to welcome them personally today at Siamsa Tíre, our National Folk Theatre, in Tralee, where they will get an opportunity to sample some of the wonderful cultural entertainment on offer.

As Minister of State for Tourism, I am particularly pleased that the visit is focusing worldwide attention on Cork and Kerry. It will showcase some of the magnificent scenery and tourist attractions that grace both counties. I have no doubt that the Prince and the Duchess will have been impressed with the rugged beauty of our South-West coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way. There is genuine excitement about the visit and I am sure that the royal couple appreciate the genuinely warm welcome they have received.

It is fitting that both Muckross House and Killarney House are on their itinerary in Kerry. Prince Charles will follow in the footsteps of his ancestor, Queen Victoria, who visited these locations in 1861. I am also pleased to see that the royal couple are visiting Derrynane House, the family home of the Liberator, Daniel O’Connell. I believe O’Connell himself would be pleased to learn of the royal visit to Derrynane and of the strong relationship that now exists between Ireland and Great Britain.

This strong relationship means that Britain, as our nearest neighbour, remains one of our top markets for overseas tourism. It is vital for the industry here that we strive to ensure that Ireland continues to be an attractive destination for British tourists. In January 2018, I launched the ‘Wonders of the Wild Atlantic Way’ marketing campaign which highlights all the great things to see and do the length of the Wild Atlantic Way and which will encourage British holidaymakers to come and visit the region outside of the peak travel season. I am confident that the visit by the royal couple will help to remind British visitors of the beautiful scenery, fascinating experiences and welcoming people awaiting them in Ireland.”

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