THIS year looks set to be a turning point for Northern Ireland as the country launches its first global market programme.
As part of their promotional drive, Ministers from Northern Ireland including First Minister of Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Peter Robinson, MLA; deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA and Arlene Foster, MLA, Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, recently visited the UAE and India to showcase Northern Ireland to for exports, investment, academia and tourism. The delegation highlighted some of Northern Ireland’s iconic attractions including the Titanic Belfast, Unesco World Heritage Site – the Giant’s Causeway and golfing champion Rory McIlroy.
Speaking to TTN, tourism Minister Arlene Foster said, “We launched the “Northern Ireland 2012 (ni2012): Your time, Our Place’, a yearlong campaign, which will make Northern Ireland a must-visit destination. We have some very important events taking place this year, including commemorating the centenary of the sinking of the Titanic, in Belfast.
“Titanic is a globally recognised brand and our new project will reignite the magic of the Titanic and create a positive interest for Northern Ireland. We are witnessing a piece of history with the opening of Titanic Belfast, and it’s a very exciting time for everyone involved.”
The Titanic Belfast is a Dh564 million ($153 million) signature development in Belfast commemorating a centenary of the construction and launch of the world’s most famous ship. Titanic Belfast extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition, drawing together special effects, dark rides, full-scale reconstructions and innovative interactive features. In addition, 120 special events including gala concerts, plays and art exhibitions will mark the anniversary as part of Titanic Belfast Festival 2012. “We believe the Titanic will awaken visitors’ interest in Northern Ireland. We want visitors’ perception of Northern Ireland to change. As a destination we have changed so much over the past 10 years and we want to share that change with the rest of the world.”
Other highlights for Northern Ireland are the return of the Irish Open after 60 years. The Royal Portrush Golf Club will host the prestigious event and welcome international golfing stars, including Rory McIlroy. A state-of-the-art visitor centre at the Unesco World Heritage site, Giant’s Causeway, also makes its debut in July, the minister added.
Foster said the extended visa waiver programme has been a boon for tourism into Ireland. “Businessmen who earlier only visited London are now adding Northern Ireland to their itinerary. The current visa waiver has been extended for four years and I don’t see any reason why that shouldn’t be continued further on as well.”
Northern Ireland is naturally keen to make the most of business coming out of the London Olympics. “We’ve been concentrating on corporate business for a while and are keen to attract visitors to come to Northern Ireland on the back of their trips to London this summer.”
Speaking of the business from the region, she said: “The Middle East is a growing market for us especially from a business point of view I see that translating into tourism potential as well. Britain is already very popular among the Arab guests and we are keen that they experience Northern Ireland for all the right reasons too,” she added. “2012 is our time to take centre stage and show the world that Northern Ireland is a great place to visit for business or holidays.”