Collective focus required to increase tourism

A collective focus is required if Northern Ireland tourism is to make maximum impact, Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment has said today.

The Minister was speaking at the Newry and Mourne Tourism Conference in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry.

Delegates from all sections of the tourism industry, including representatives from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) and Bord Fáilte, are attending the two-day conference in Newry.

Addressing the delegates, Sir Reg said: “There is great potential for tourism to bring economic benefits to both rural and urban areas. In the Republic of Ireland the tourism industry contributes 7% to GDP, in Northern Ireland the tourism industry contributes only 2% so there is much scope for improvement.

“However, the consequences of September 11th continue to have an impact. The tourism sector in Northern Ireland has experienced many challenges and only by working together can we maximize our true potential.

“Government has been active in its support for the tourism industry through ensuring that structures are in place to achieve a focused and effective approach. We have set up Tourism Ireland, which focuses on marketing the island of Ireland internationally as a quality tourism destination. Tourism Ireland is working closely with NITB and Bord Fáilte on areas of mutual interest.

“Change is also underway in NITB to bring a greater business focus to all aspects of tourism. A restructuring process within NITB is underway and the body has recently published its corporate plan that maps out its strategic approach for the future.

“However such coming together and pooling of resources is also important in local government’s tourist promotion. A local authority with limited resources may have difficulty working in isolation, but a combined approach with other local authorities, leads to a sharing of expertise and resources for mutual benefit.”

In conclusion the Minister said the was still a great deal of work to be done and many obstacles to be overcome in making Northern Ireland a must see destination for international visitors.

However, the unspoiled landscape and world renowned hospitality were evidence of a tourism product, which if given the right conditions, could flourish.

(MB)