02 April 2012

Students Encouraged To Embrace Tourism Opportunities

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has highlighted the opportunities that exist in the tourism and hospitality sector to students at the South West College Tourism Conference in Enniskillen.

Addressing students from local schools, Arlene Foster said: "The tourism industry is widely varied and carries many opportunities across various fields and professions. Our tourism infrastructure has significantly developed in the last few years and with it the range of opportunities that exist have also grown.

"A career within the tourism and hospitality sector is interesting, enjoyable and fulfilling. However, it entails hard work, commitment, the right attitude, adaptability and good communication skills."

The Minister highlighted the many exciting tourism projects coming to fruition across Northern Ireland: "This is an exciting time for Northern Ireland tourism. With the NI2012 programme of events and top class visitor attractions opening, we have an unprecedented opportunity to put Northern Ireland on the map and to generate future tourism business.

"The opening of Titanic Belfast this weekend is a historic milestone and the exciting Titanic Belfast Festival will enable Northern Ireland to shine on a global stage. Other events include the opening of the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, an enhanced Festival at Queen’s for its 50th anniversary and the Irish Open in Portrush."

Arlene Foster concluded: "Last year some 1.8 million tourists visited Northern Ireland, generating £336million for the local economy and helping to sustain over 40,000 jobs across the province. Over the next four years around £1billion will be invested in transforming the economy into one driven by the private sector and aiming to promote 25,000 new jobs.

"Students will be leaving school this year in a very tough economic climate, but it is also an exciting time if they are considering a career in the hospitality industry. I would encourage young people to ensure they are well equipped to make the most of the employment opportunities the tourism sector offers them."

The conference was attended by around 60 15-16 year-old pupils from schools in Enniskillen, Derrylin and Brollagh.

(GK)