Fáilte Ireland today held the first in a series of networking events for student Tour Guides at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin as part of the National Tourism Development Authority’s commitment to encourage and promote careers in the tourism industry.
The networking event was attended by over 100 education professionals and students who are completing the National Tour Guiding Level 6 QQI award. Representatives attended from Coláiste Dhúlaigh; Liberties College, Dublin; Dublin and Dun Laoghaire ETB; GMIT and Portobello Institute with presentations including an overview of the industry and discussions on the career and employment options available.
Tour Guides are often the first local people with whom visitors interact in their tourism experience and Fáilte Ireland works with educational institutions throughout the country to ensure that tour guides are experts in their area, and eager to bring the stories to life for the visitor. Student Tour Guides are enthusiastic ambassadors who are passionate about Ireland and enhancing the visitor experience for those travelling from across the globe.
Many of the students in attendance have already gained experience as tour guides, while others are taking the first steps in their tourism career.
Paul Hayden Head of Tourism Careers at Fáilte Ireland said:
“Tour Guides are a vital component in delivering brilliant visitor experiences for tourists and as the National Tourism Development Authority, Fáilte Ireland is delighted to host this national event. Events like this are held as part of our commitment to encourage and promote careers in tourism. The event is intended to bring together key industry stakeholders, education providers and current tour guide students who are studying the National Tour Guide programme and the Regional Tour Guide programme to provide an understanding of the industry and the career options available.”
Ruth Andrews, Chief Executive of the Irish Tour Operators Association (ITOA), said:
“The ITOA represents companies who bring in over 740,000 visitors from all over the world, and guide services are one of the most important of our tourism offerings. This is a super opportunity for new and trainee guides to connect with leading tour operators, gain valuable insights into their businesses, and take the first steps in a successful and exciting guiding career.”
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