Republic-based Visitor Numbers Rising

The latest visitor numbers from the Republic of Ireland to NI have significantly exceeded expectations.

NI Tourism Minister Arlene Foster (pictured) today welcomed the news that between January and March, this year, holiday trips from the Republic of Ireland doubled (+100%) when compared to the same period in 2008.

Total visitor numbers rose by 36%, while revenue from the Republic also rose by an impressive 51%.

Between January and March tourism revenue from the Republic was worth £14.3million to the local economy.

Welcoming the figures, the Minister said: "It is particularly encouraging to see the number of pure holiday visits form the Republic rise so significantly.

"This shows that more and more visitors from the Republic are coming to Northern Ireland, not just for shopping, but also for the huge range of things to see and do here. The significant rise in revenue from this market is also a welcome boost to the Northern Ireland economy," she said.

"This is good news for the industry as we continue to offer excellent value for money and unique experiences for our visitors.

"Even though it may be proving a more difficult year economically right across the industry, more and more people are realising that they can have a fantastic holiday closer to home."

Also commenting, Alan Clarke, Chief Executive at the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) said: "This rise in holiday visits from the Republic compares very favourably to figures for the Great Britain market and shows that we have made considerable progress with market penetration in the Republic of Ireland.

"NITB continues to deliver targeted marketing campaigns in the Republic to maximise the short term opportunities that exist due to the strong euro.

"Our most recent campaign urges residents and visitors to the Republic to 'head north' this summer," he continued, noting that a particular focus for this campaign is to encourage shoppers at key locations to consider extending their stay and making the most of their trip to Northern Ireland.

"We will also be launching a comprehensive industry development programme at the end of the summer which will support the tourism industry through masterclasses, business insights seminars, workshops and learning journeys.

"The programme will help the tourism industry to adapt to shorter opportunities and challenges while also preparing their businesses for the long term," the top executive concluded.

(BMcC/KMcA)