A new survey by Fáilte Ireland paints a positive picture for the tourism sector.

Fáilte Ireland's Autumn Tourism Barometer shows 84% of hotels and 76% of guesthouses reporting increased business this summer, compared to 2015.

Overall, 72% of businesses were positive about the outlook for the sector.

Hotels that open all year round were found to be most optimistic businesses about the coming months, with 74% saying they expect business to be up.

The survey found the challenges posed by Brexit is causing uncertainty within the industry, with 44% of businesses expressing concerns over its impact.

39% of businesses, meanwhile, highlighted operating costs as a major concern.

Fáilte Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn said: “As expected, tourism businesses across the country had another successful summer and with many recording their best season ever.

"Yet, we must keep our eye on the factors underpinning our growth – compelling visitor experiences, increased carrier capacity and a favourable exchange rate with the US Dollar - and avoid strategies which in time could undermine our current reputation for good value," he added.