Councillor wants North West marketed as a destination where tourists can escape extreme heat

The Government has been asked to launch a dedicated tourism campaign promoting Ireland, and particularly the North West, as the ideal destination for Europeans looking to escape extreme summer heat. The suggestion came from Independent Councillor Marie Casserly at the September monthly meeting of Sligo County Council. She wants the Minister for Tourism and his department along with Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland, to develop a targeted international marketing campaign promoting Ireland, and particularly the North West, as a 'coolcation' destination for European visitors seeking to escape increasingly extreme summer temperatures. She said the campaign should build on existing tourism initiatives by highlighting Ireland's temperate climate, the Wild Atlantic Way, and the excellent accessibility provided by Ireland West Airport Knock, Shannon Airport and Donegal Airport. Cllr Casserly remarked, 'Every summer we see record-breaking temperatures across many parts of Europe. While Ireland has always promoted its scenery, heritage and hospitality, we now have another genuine advantage - our mild, temperate climate.' 'The North West offers stunning beaches, golf courses, mountains, forests, world-class surfing, walking trails and vibrant towns, all without the extreme heat being experienced elsewhere. This is an opportunity we should actively promote.' Co Sligo Golf Club, Rosses Point Cllr Casserly said the timing is ideal, with improved connectivity through Ireland West Airport Knock, Shannon Airport and Donegal Airport making the region more accessible than ever for overseas visitors. 'This isn't about replacing existing tourism campaigns. It's about recognising changing travel patterns and building on them. More people are actively seeking cooler holiday destinations during the summer months, and Ireland is perfectly positioned to meet that demand.' She added that increased visitor numbers would provide a significant boost to local businesses, accommodation providers, restaurants, attractions and communities throughout the North West. 'We have a unique opportunity to position the North West as Europe's refreshing summer destination. I hope the Government will seize it.' The motion received widespread support from her fellow councillors with Cllr Ann Higgins commenting, 'More and more people are realising the sun is not the same attraction it was. As the saying goes, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.' Cllr Edel McSharry also spoke in favour saying, 'This is an excellent motion, I am very happy to support it.' Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme. Read more Sligo councillor wants to make it an offence to film and share fatal crash scenes