Irish Continental reveals drop in profits

THE company that owns Irish Ferries has blamed the foot and mouth crisis for plunging profits.

Irish Continental Group made €11.4 million in the 12 months to October 31, compared to €19 million the previous year. However, as the firm changed its accounting year in 2001, the revised profit figure is €9 million in the 14 months to December 31.

Passenger numbers declined by 4% to 1.7 million last year due to foot and mouth. The impact was most severe on the Pembroke-Rosslare crossing which experienced a 16% drop in custom, while Holyhead-Dublin held up to similar levels of the 1.1 million passengers carried in 2000.

The group also suffered with declining sales at its travel agency Tara Travel, which caused the company to incur a €3.2 million loss in 2001.

In a move to boost business, Irish Ferries is offering 15% off bookings made before March 28. Reservations must be made from its Ireland – Inclusive Holidays by Sea and Air brochure and are valid on the Pembroke- Rosslare route.