£2m Of Reservations For Police And Fire Games

Over £2m of reservations have been booked in Northern Ireland in anticipation of the 2013 World Police and Fire Games.

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín and Tourism Minister Arlene Foster announced the news during a breakfast for accommodation providers at Belfast City Hall.

Minister Ní Chuilín said: "As 2013 is now upon us, we are only months away from the biggest sporting event ever held in the north. With 25,000 people – 10,000 participants and an additional 15,000 friends and family – expected for the World Police and Fire Games it promises to bring sporting, social and economic benefits.

"We have talked about embracing the opportunities offered by the Games. It is vital that key stakeholders, such as accommodation providers, are part of that discussion. I am keen for local businesses and communities to make the most of the Games. This event is about building the partnerships which will help to make that happen."

Competitors from over 40 countries have registered for the Games, which will see competitors take part in in 57 sports at 42 different venues.

Tourism Minister Minister Arlene Foster said: "While £2m is a significant milestone – and it underlines the economic importance of the WPFG – there is still a long way to go as we seek to maximise the economic benefits of the Games.

"In the past few years Northern Ireland has shown it can host world-class events and once again we are extending a global invitation to visitors. While people will be coming here for the Games, they will stay to experience our tourist offering."

The Lord Mayor of Belfast Alderman Gavin Robinson said: "The WPFG organising committee estimates that the event will bring in up to £21.4m to the local economy – so this prestigious event is not only a winning one for the competitors involved in the games and our accommodation providers but local business as a whole."

(IT)