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The IHF has called on Leaving Certificate students who are still undecided about their careers, to consider a future in tourism. Photo: 123RF

The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) has called on Leaving Certificate students who are still undecided about their careers, to consider a future in tourism.

Mr Vaughan, President of the IHF, stated that there are excellent career opportunities within the tourism and hospitality sector, particularly for skilled and qualified employees looking to progress rapidly to management roles.

Mr Vaughan noted that, by now students throughout the country will have submitted their CAO applications. However, over the coming weeks, thousands will continue to examine their course options further and many will opt to avail of the ‘Change of Course’ facility, which is available up until March 1.

Commenting on the career opportunities in the sector, Mr Vaughan said: “The outlook for Irish tourism is very positive and there are many exciting opportunities for anyone beginning a career in the sector. We’re experiencing strong growth with trips to Ireland up significantly over the last 12 months and this is having a direct impact on employment.”

TOURISM OUTLOOK

2013 was the best year for overseas tourism since 2008 with almost 7 million overseas visits recorded, representing an increase of 7.2% on the 2012 figure. Three quarters of hoteliers saw an increase in business in 2013 and the vast majority (84%) now report a positive outlook for their business.

This is good news for those seeking a career in tourism given its contribution to the economy - providing over €3bn in foreign exchange earnings and almost 200,000 jobs - equivalent to about 11 per cent of total employment.

TOURISM COURSES AVAILABLE

Mr Vaughan says courses leading to recognised qualifications in tourism not only provide practical skills training but access to opportunities at home and abroad with excellent career prospects.

"As such, the industry works hard to attract enthusiastic people who aspire to having interesting, people-focused careers.”

There are a large number of specialist courses available at third-level institutions throughout the country for students interested in pursuing qualifications for entry to the industry.

Courses provided by the Institutes of Technology include culinary arts, hotel management, tourism management, bar & restaurant supervision and hospitality studies. Some of these programmes are financially supported by Fáilte Ireland.

In addition many programmes have work-placement modules which provide students with an excellent opportunity to develop further skills and gain invaluable work experience.

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