A group that helps tourists who've been victims of crime in Ireland has been hailed for its work by Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan.
The Irish Tourist Assistance Service - which marks its 25th anniversary this week - is the only dedicated national initiative in Europe offering specialist support to tourist crime victims.
The service works so efficiently that on average, nine in every 10 tourists continue with their holiday after support from the service.
Around 17,000 tourists from 110 countries around the world have been the beneficiaries of ITAS since it began.
And Minister Flanagan paid tribute to their "blessing" work at an event hosted by Fáilte Ireland at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland on Monday.
He said: "For the last 25 years, the Irish Tourist Assistance Service has assisted tourists who unfortunately have become victims of crime in Ireland.
"Many of us have been away from home and have experienced situations where things have not gone as expected.
"However, to have money, credit cards, identity documents and travel tickets stolen while travelling abroad, is deeply distressing.
"To be given the support to regroup and, time permitting, continue to enjoy your travels is a blessing."
Paul Kelly, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, added: "ITAS works tirelessly to ensure that tourists and visitors who find themselves in difficulty are reassured, supported and assisted in their needs.
"This practical and emotional support, offered free of charge to tourists in distress, ensures they are cared for as well as possible on the very rare occasion that something goes wrong while on holidays.
"This support is vital in ensuring that Ireland’s reputation as a welcoming and caring destination is maintained and indeed strengthened."
