Mayo tourism island puts best foot forward at networking event

Achill's tourism industry took centre stage last Thursday as local business owners gathered at Óstán Oileán Acla for a networking event organised by Achill Tourism.

The evening provided a valuable platform for collaboration and discussion, bringing together representatives from key support agencies, industry experts, and public representatives to explore strategies for strengthening Achill's tourism sector.

The event featured exhibitions from organisations such as Údarás na Gaeltachta, Gaeilge Acla, Mayo Local Enterprise Office (LEO), An Garda Síochána, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), Mayo Sports Partnership, Comhlacht Forbartha Áitiúil Acla (CFÁA), and Mayo Local Link. Informative presentations addressed crucial topics, with SEAI discussing energy cost challenges for small businesses, Mayo LEO outlining its range of supports, and Mayo Local Link highlighting its growing public transport network, both within Achill and its connections to Castlebar.

Industry Insights and Development Plans

One of the evening’s highlights was a presentation from Biddy Hughes of Westport House Estate, who detailed ambitious plans for the development of The Grace Hotel and the wider estate. The vision aims to position Westport House Estate as a premier national attraction, on par with iconic sites such as the Guinness Storehouse and the Cliffs of Moher, further enhancing Mayo's tourism appeal.

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Three public representatives addressed the gathering, each outlining their priorities for Achill’s tourism and small business community.

Alan Dillon TD, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, acknowledged the financial pressures on local businesses. He announced the establishment of a small business unit dedicated to addressing key financial challenges, including energy costs, minimum wage increases, and statutory sick pay. He also expressed confidence that the 9 percent VAT rate revision would be secured in future budget discussions and highlighted the formation of a cost-of-business advisory forum to tackle PRSI burdens.

Minister Dillon emphasised Achill's significance within the Wild Atlantic Way and reaffirmed his commitment to key infrastructure projects, including the Greenway extension, new watersports facilities, and masterplans for Keem and Keel.

“Tonight is about Achill and everyone being part of the network. We have an enormous resource here in Mayo, and by working together, we can enhance it for both domestic and international tourists,” he stated.

Rose Conway-Walsh TD, Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment, drew on her past experience working with Bord Fáilte in Keel to highlight the need for transparent decision-making in tourism development. She raised concerns about funding allocations based on population metrics and advocated for an all-Ireland approach to tourism.

Addressing recent storm damage, she called for a government fund to assist affected businesses and pressed for immediate action on reinstating the 9 percent VAT rate. She also emphasised the need for agencies to develop expertise in artificial intelligence to better assess business proposals and ensure innovative ideas are not overlooked.

“We need to extend the tourist season. You cannot make a sustainable living from a short season alone. Collaboration and forward planning are key,” she said, stressing the need for improved infrastructure such as water and sewage services.

Cllr Paul McNamara acknowledged the seasonal nature of Achill’s tourism industry and stressed the importance of strategic planning to extend the season. He highlighted the role of Achill’s diaspora, whose financial contributions continue to support the local economy.

McNamara also underscored the need for major investment in the R319 road and improved broadband services. He advocated for rate relief for seasonal businesses and urged swift action on the 9 percent VAT rate. Additionally, he pointed to ongoing investments in Greenways, piers, and toilet facilities in Keel, stressing the importance of collaboration among businesses, the community, and policymakers.

“A community can deliver if it is together. Business brings more business, and we need to encourage and support each other,” he concluded.

A Future Built on Cooperation

The evening’s discussions reinforced a key message—collaboration is essential for Achill’s economic growth. With significant investment in infrastructure, transport, and tourism initiatives, the event reaffirmed the commitment of both the public and private sectors to securing a sustainable and prosperous future for Achill’s tourism industry.

Achill Tourism’s Members' Night served as a powerful reminder that by working together—business owners, public representatives, and support agencies alike—Achill can continue to build on its reputation as a premier destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.