Pound's weakness can be boon to North tourism, says Minister

The North must use the crash in the value of the pound against the euro and dollar to boost visitor numbers, Tourism Minister Arlene Foster said today.

Unveiling plans to attract visitors from overseas and closer to home next year she said: “It is vital that Northern Ireland seeks to take advantage of the current Sterling exchange rate in order to attract increased visitors from the Republic of Ireland as well as European and US markets.”

Northern Ireland Tourist Board chief executive Alan Clarke said tourism in the province had been recognised around the world and now was the time to deliver.

He said: “The strong euro gives a short term competitive advantage to Northern Ireland and I would urge local businesses to adapt and seize the many opportunities that undoubtedly remain to grow tourism throughout 2009 and beyond.”

He said 2008 had been a challenging year globally, but huge opportunities remained closer to home markets.

Latest figures for Ireland showed 14% growth, while holiday visits from Britain had been slightly increased, said Mr Clarke.

Tourism bosses predict with the global economic downturn tourism faces serious challenges in the year ahead and that this year will be down on last year.

Paul O’Toole, chief executive of the all-island tourism body Tourism Ireland said: “All indicators point to a more difficult year in 2009 due to the general weakening in global economies.

“While the outlook may appear tough, it is important to recognise that many people around the world will still want to take holidays.

“We will be working to ensure that Northern Ireland gets its fair share of that business.”

Speaking at the Belfast launch Mrs Foster said the Executive had set challenging targets for tourism which involved attracting 2.5 million visitors and increasing revenues to £520m (€620m) by 2011.

Tourism Ireland has launched a £37m (€44.1m) marketing strategy and the minister said: “Over the next 12 months Tourism Ireland will be vigorously promoting Northern Ireland through television, radio, promotional literature and online marketing.”