Tom Randles re-elected President of the Irish Travel Agents Association

Tom Randles, Managing Director of Barter’s Travelnet in Cork was re-elected President of the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) at their AGM held yesterday afternoon, Thursday 23^rd April, at The InterContinental Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin.

Tom was first elected President of the ITAA in 2025 having been a Board Member since 2023. Originally from Killarney and a qualified Chartered Accountant, Tom Randles joined Barter’s Travelnet in Cork as Financial Controller in April 1996. Tom was appointed Managing Director of Barter’s Travelnet in January 2012 and successfully completed a takeover of the company in March 2023.

Speaking at the AGM, Tom Randles, ITAA President, said of his re-election, “It is a great honour to serve as President of the Irish Travel Agents Association. I am committed to continuing in this role with enthusiasm and with deep respect for both my predecessors and our valued membership.”

He added, “The travel industry is currently navigating a period of renewed geopolitical uncertainty, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. As we have seen before, such developments can quickly affect consumer confidence and lead to more cautious booking behaviour. At times like these, the value of professional travel agents becomes even more evident. Our members provide reassurance, additional consumer protection, expert guidance, and trusted advice to customers facing an increasingly complex travel landscape. Their role has never been more important.”

At the AGM Martin Skelly, Director of Navan Travel was elected Treasurer. Martin previously served as President of the ITAA.  Other appointments to the ITAA board were:  Paul Hackett of Click&Go Holidays, Jeff Collins of Best4Travel, Caroline Quigley of Keith Prowse Ireland, Alan Lynch of Travel Escapes, Maura Fahy of Fahy Travel, Olivia McGeown of Centre Travel, and Angela Walsh of FROSCH Ireland.

Clare Dunne, CEO of the ITAA, said, “I am proud to work alongside such a talented team of industry professionals. Each board member contributes unique expertise, experience, and strategic perspective, positioning us strongly to meet both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Through our combined efforts, we aim not only to deliver a successful year for the association but also to support the long-term strength and development of Ireland’s travel industry.”

She added, “Supporting our members remains a central focus. We are committed to helping them expand and succeed in a constantly changing landscape, particularly through continuous training and upskilling initiatives. By enabling them to adapt to new technologies and evolving industry demands, while also encouraging innovation and collaboration, we can help shape a resilient and sustainable future for the travel industry.”