The programme, known as The Shamrock Agents, is designed to teach employees in the travel trade about Ireland, several large tour operators have already signed up, notably, Arabian Pacific Travel Tourism and Caesars Holidays.

The official launch of the programme is set to take place in the United Arab Emirates, and will help travel agents to develop an in-depth understanding of tourism in Ireland; including knowledge of tourist provisions, such as car hire in Ireland, and knowledge of the multitude of activities Ireland has to offer.

A similar initiative has already been successfully launched in Australia, whereby agents were tested on their knowledge of Ireland through various types of tests.