Irish Ferries has pledged its support for the Irish Government's The Gathering' initiative by rolling out its own 'green carpet' to attract overseas visitors from Britain to Ireland this year.
First of the support packages being launched is that 100 free return coach spaces are being set aside on tis cruise ferry services from Holyhead to Dublin and Pembroke to Rosslare this year, to support groups wishing to attend 'The Gathering' events.
It is valued at up to £50,000 and available to eligible groups participating in officially registered events.
The offer promises free return carriage to Ireland for groups travelling with coaches - from small mini buses to vehicles with seating for up to 30 passengers. With free coach spaces on offer for travel every week, spread across the full twelve months, this could mean free transport to Ireland for up to 3,000 extra tourists.
Groups wishing to apply for the free transport should visit www.irishferries.com/thegathering for more details and make an application by email to gathering@irishferries.com