06/03/2014

Foster Encourages Tourism Industry To 'Scale New Heights'

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has encouraged those in the industry to build on the momentum of the past two years in order to "scale new heights".

The Minister made the comments while speaking at the Northern Ireland Tourist Board's (NITB) annual conference.

"The past two years have been unprecedented for tourism in Northern Ireland," she said.

"We have proven that not only can we can host major events, we can host them on a scale that makes the watching world take a second look.

"From the Irish Open in 2012, the first European Tour event in history to sell out, to the most peaceful G8 summit on record in 2013, Northern Ireland is now internationally recognised as a leading venue for major events. That reputation will be further cemented in May when we host the Grande Partenza or 'Big Start' of the Giro d’Italia.

"The Giro d’Italia will not only give local people the chance to witness one of the world’s greatest sporting spectacles up close, it is expected to attract 140,000 tourists and will see our stunning scenery televised in 165 countries across the globe."

Minister Foster continued: "Our tourism industry must work together and build upon the real momentum that now exists. By being determined, creative and focused on further developing our tourism product, we can lift Northern Ireland’s profile as a 'must see' destination to new heights."

(IT)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

27 January 2010
Tourism Matters In Focus
Whether it is 'flying your kite' surfing off Benone, (pictured) or enjoying cultural tourism in west Belfast, the way tourism is marketed has been in focus this week. Both an advance - and a more backward step - in tourism matters were highlighted yesterday as two politicians spoke out on making the most of visitor numbers.
27 October 2022
New £4m NI Tourism Campaign Launches
Tourism Ireland has announced a new £4 million multi-media promotional campaign across Great Britain to promote short breaks and holidays in Northern Ireland. The campaign is a result of funding recently announced by Economy Minister Gordon Lyons to help Northern Ireland's tourism industry rebuild and expand post pandemic.
27 October 2021
Belfast Makes Top 20 List Of Most Sustainable Destinations In The World
Belfast has made the Top 20 official list of sustainable destinations in the world, recognised as a leading city tourism destination committed to sustainable development and growth.
16 January 2013
£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.
24 August 2010
Queen's Festival On The Way
This year's Ulster Bank Festival at Queen's was launched this week by Stormont Arts Minister Nelson McCausland along with party colleague, the Tourism Minister, Arlene Foster.