NIO Economy Minister Ian Pearson has today met new Northern Ireland Tourist Board chairman Tom McGrath, and board members of the NITB to hear what plans it has for future of Northern Ireland tourism.

While congratulating Mr McGrath on his appointment as chairman, the Minister expressed his full support for the work of the Board.

He said: “Tourism plays a key role in creating a competitive and dynamic economy. I look forward to seeing the NITB and the Northern Ireland industry working closely together, pooling resources and maximising benefits. They all have a full part to play in making tourism a success story in Northern Ireland.”

Mr McGrath outlined to the Minister his plans and aspirations as chairman of the Tourist Board. He acknowledged the challenges that lay ahead but emphasised the commitment that he, his other Board colleagues, and the Tourist Board staff, will continue to give in striving to put Northern Ireland on both the domestic and international map as a must-see destination.

The Minister, underlined to the Chairman and his colleagues, the importance of successfully implementing and delivering the NITB Action Plan which followed on from the recent PAC Report on the Tourist Board.

Focusing on the new team now in place at the NITB, the Minister said: “The significant re-structuring of the Board, including its new Chairman and members, provides a perfect opportunity for NITB to take a fresh approach to tourism.

“This year will be a very important year for the NITB team. It provides the platform to take forward key issues such as the need to develop and implement a new dynamic marketing strategy for Northern Ireland, the forging of effective relationships with Tourism Ireland and the creation of effective working partnerships with the key players in the local industry.”

(MB)