Minister welcomes tourism blueprint

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Sir Reg Empey, has commended the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) on the production of the ‘Blueprint for Tourism’, a report commissioned by the Federation to help determine future tourism strategy.

Speaking at the NIHF Annual Conference in the Ramada Hotel, Belfast, Sir Reg not only reflected on the industry’s difficulties over the past year, but also outlined the government’s support for the tourism sector.

He said: “The tourism industry faces uncertain times, however the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) is in a unique position to benefit and utilise market intelligence from both the British Tourist Authority and Bord Failte international networks.

“Already, NITB along with Tourism Ireland Ltd and Bord Failte has met with key distribution players in New York to decide what practical actions can be taken to focus efforts on the best prospects for business in light of world events. What business is out there still has to be won and Tourism Ireland Ltd is currently planning a tactical marketing campaign.”

The Blueprint for Tourism document outlined four main themes identified for the next five years. These are effective marketing, the operational environment (including funding, infrastructure, and regulation), human resources and cohesion in creating an integrated approach across government.

The Minister responded to each theme in particular and specifically highlighted the role of the new single economic development agency, Invest Northern Ireland, in providing an improved service to the tourism industry.

In conclusion, Sir Reg said: “What government needs from the industry is clear messages about where we can help each other in our respective roles. It may take time; there may be areas where we disagree; the important thing is to have a logical, clear and honest basis for that debate." (MB)