Byline: Irish Daily Mail Reporter
TOUGH visa requirements for certain nationalities visiting Ireland are strangling the tourism industry, it was claimed yesterday.
The Coach Tourism and Transport Council, representing coach operators, said travellers from countries including Russia, China and India are not being encouraged to visit because of strict entry rules.
'Effectively, we tell them to go away and spend their money in some other country,' said Gerry Mullins, CTTC chief.
Lace front wigsMr Mullins pointed to a list of rules on the Irish Embassy in China website for visa applications to visit here.
Among the requirements are documentary proof going back six months showing suitable funds to cover a visit, a letter from your employer or college stating you intend to return and a letter from your host.
'Can you imagine booking a room in a Dublin hotel, Clip in human hair extensions and then asking the receptionist if the hotel would forward a letter saying they will support you during your visit?' Mr Mullins asked.
He questioned why visitors from such countries would visit Ireland when faced with such entry requirements and claimed tourist operators were losing business.
Nationalities of 88 countries do not need a visa to travel to Ireland.
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However, a Failte Ireland review last month found the majority of tourism operators believe the worst is over after one of the beleagured sector's toughest years.
Almost two-thirds of businesses dependent on holidaymakers feel 2010 will be on a par or better than last year, compared with just a fifth heading into 2009.
Failte Ireland said among its strategies to boost growth are giving visiting pensioners rail discounts and investing in tourist spots.
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