The Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS) is a free nationwide service offering support and assistance to tourists who are victimised while visiting Ireland.

The service is run by staff and volunteers who speak a variety of languages. ITAS acts as a base where problems facing a tourist in
the aftermath of a crime can be addressed promptly with the view to getting holiday plans back on track.

The trauma of being a victim of crime can be compounded by language, culture and environmental differences. Tourists in unfamiliar surroundings can feel alone and vulnerable. By dealing with the practical issues associated with a crime a more positive emotional state can be restored.

ITAS offers comfort, support and hope to tourists who otherwise may leave Ireland and never wish to return.

The effectiveness of the service is evident from the following statistics.

96% of victimised tourists would still recommend Ireland as a holiday destination.

88% on average elect to continue their holidays each year.

96% said the help provided by the service was sufficient for their needs.