The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) will hold its annual conference in April 2021 instead of October, because of Covid-19 restrictions.
The association, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, had planned to host the event in Évora, Portugal, on October 15-18.
The event is now scheduled to take place in Évora on April 8-10.
Pat Dawson, chief executive of the ITAA, said: “The annual conference is a highlight of the travel trade and press calendars in Ireland, as it provides us with an opportunity to meet with our colleagues from both home and abroad, as well as discover more about Portugal and the Alentejo.
“The Alentejo is a region with a strong cultural background, with numerous castles, churches, monasteries, megalithic monuments, a rich Roman heritage, and home to Évora – a classified Unesco World Heritage city.
“These events are essential for allowing the important partnership between Ireland, Évora, the Alentejo and other Portuguese regions to continue to grow at every level of tourism, culture and business.
“Unfortunately, due to concerns surrounding the spread of coronavirus, we feel that it would be in everyone’s best interests to reschedule this year’s conference to take place in April 2021.”
Susana Cardoso, director of the Portuguese Tourist Office in Dublin, added: “While we are disappointed with the postponement of the ITAA conference to April next year, it is the right decision to ensure that delegates have the best experience possible.”
Vítor Silva, president of the Alentejo Tourism Bureau, commented: “Évora is ready to welcome tourists when they feel ready to travel. Throughout the Alentejo region, you will find a ‘social distance landscape’ and a clean and safe environment.”
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