The number of overseas visitors to Ireland increased over ten per cent in the first half of this year, according to figures released today.

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has released figures showing a marked increase in trips to Ireland compared to the number of trips in the first six months of 2013.

Fáilte Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn said the numbers could signify “our best tourism season since the downturn began”.

In the second quarter of this year, the total number of trips to Ireland increased by over 12 per cent compared to the same time last year.

Niall Gibbons of Tourism Ireland said the company is “determined to ensure that the tourism growth continues” by promoting initiatives like the Wild Atlantic Way and the Croke Park Classic, when the University of Central Florida takes on Penn State in their college football season opener on August 30th.