The Irish Tourism Industry Confederation reports "solid growth" in 2018 through August - up 8% in 1H2018, and that capacity being added by air and sea carriers is expected to drive further growth in 2019.

But the organization feels that the 2019 Irish budget - which increases the tourism VAT rate from 9% to 13.5% - has "proved unfriendly" to tourism and hospitality.

Also the "cloud of uncertainty" surrounding Brexit "continues to exercise" the tourism industry, and the possibility of a "no deal" Brexit is the "key threat" to future outlook for the GBP - which is important because traditionally 40% of Ireland's inbound tourism has come from the UK.

There are many more details in the ITIC report, which you can access from the Related Article link, below.