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04/06/2002
Fast ferries make major contribution to NI tourism
The first company to introduce a fast ferry service out of Northern Ireland is celebrating ten years in the business.
The SeaCat which is a familiar sight in Belfast’s docks has carried over one million passengers from Northern Ireland since moving its operations to Troon three years ago.
Speaking at SeaCat’s 10th anniversary Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment stressed the important role the company had in providing tourism to Northern Ireland.
“Ease of access to Northern Ireland is probably the most important factor in maximising tourism potential,” Sir Reg Empey said.
“SeaCat has provided a massive contribution to the tourism and leisure industry and over the years has shown its confidence by working with, and encouraging, many tour operators to provide holiday packages to Northern Ireland.”
Last year, despite travel restrictions imposed as a result of the Foot and Mouth outbreak, there was a growth in visitor numbers from Great Britain of 11 per cent and from Scotland of 16 per cent.
“This year Northern Ireland is looking forward to a strong recovery in tourism and attracting our near neighbours as holiday visitors from Scotland, England and the Isle of Man, is key to our success” the minister said.
“With an increased marketing presence in key overseas markets through Tourism Ireland Ltd, I am also confident of significantly increasing visitor numbers from outside the UK and boosting the contribution that the tourist industry can make to the local economy.”
(AMcE)
The SeaCat which is a familiar sight in Belfast’s docks has carried over one million passengers from Northern Ireland since moving its operations to Troon three years ago.
Speaking at SeaCat’s 10th anniversary Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment stressed the important role the company had in providing tourism to Northern Ireland.
“Ease of access to Northern Ireland is probably the most important factor in maximising tourism potential,” Sir Reg Empey said.
“SeaCat has provided a massive contribution to the tourism and leisure industry and over the years has shown its confidence by working with, and encouraging, many tour operators to provide holiday packages to Northern Ireland.”
Last year, despite travel restrictions imposed as a result of the Foot and Mouth outbreak, there was a growth in visitor numbers from Great Britain of 11 per cent and from Scotland of 16 per cent.
“This year Northern Ireland is looking forward to a strong recovery in tourism and attracting our near neighbours as holiday visitors from Scotland, England and the Isle of Man, is key to our success” the minister said.
“With an increased marketing presence in key overseas markets through Tourism Ireland Ltd, I am also confident of significantly increasing visitor numbers from outside the UK and boosting the contribution that the tourist industry can make to the local economy.”
(AMcE)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Another cloudy and mild night with the odd spot of light drizzle. More widespread outbreaks of rain will spread southeast into western parts of Tyrone, Fermanagh and Derry late in the night. Minimum temperature 8 °C.
