One of Ireland’s oldest, largest and best-known travel agents and tour operators, Joe Walsh Tours, has closed down.
In a statement, the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) said Joe Walsh Pilgrimtours Ltd, trading under ten different brand names including Joe Walsh Tours, is unable to fulfil its obligations to customers and has ceased trading.
“The Commission operates a consumer protection scheme and, if you find you are out of pocket, you may be covered by this scheme,” the CAR said.
“The Commission also operates a Refund Credit Note Scheme. You may be covered by this scheme if your holiday has been cancelled due to Covid-19 and you have yet to receive a refund from Joe Walsh Pilgrimtours Ltd.”
Prior to the pandemic, the company had offices in the UK, Europe, and the US and employed more than 100 people, but it is understood to currently have around 25 staff.
Joe Walsh Tours was founded in 1961 by Co Down native Joe Walsh, after he had spent time working for the Ulster…