This article is from page 19 of the 2013-07-09 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 19 JPG
THE announcement of visitor numbers and the confirmation of an estimated € 5m boost to local coffers was made at the launch of a Gathering Clare Festivals and Events booklet for July to December 2013.
The booklet is being made available at tourist offices, hotels, Council offices and Libraries throughout the County to promote the dozens of events scheduled to take place during the second half of the year.
Amongst some of the key events held during the first six months of 2013 was the Bunratty International Chess Festival, The Burren Tolkien Society Festival, Kilfenora Music Festival, International Junior Tour of Ireland, Festival of Finn, Russell Memorial Weekend, Whitegate May Bank Holiday Festival and the Gathering the Scattering Family History Conference, which were collectively attended by more than 1, 500 overseas visitors.
July and August will increase those numbers as a number of local festivals are due to take place. “We are delighted with the success of The Gathering which has brought huge economic benefits to communities across the County,” explained Monica Meehan, Gathering Clare coordi- nator.
“Communities in every corner of Clare have thoroughly embraced the Gathering initiative and we are glad to say that the quality of festivals and events is excellent. Recent visitor figures released by the CSO reflect the contribution made by the Gathering to the wider tourism sector.
“This is evidenced by the 10 per cent increase (404, 535 overall) in visitors to the Cliffs of Moher during the first six months of 2013 compared to the same period last year.
“Furthermore, almost a quarter of the 5750 people who have visited Loop Head Lighthouse between March and June have been from overseas,” Monica added.