Individual Post

SDLP Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty has called on the Executive to deliver a costed Tourism Strategy to build on the success local agencies have had in breaking into new niche tourism markets.

Speaking ahead of moving an SDLP amendment in the Assembly, Mr McNulty said:  

“Over the last decade, the local tourism industry has suffered as a result of economic downturn and a collapse in disposable income. Despite the incredible quality of Ireland’s tourism product, local attractions, hotels, restaurants etc. have experienced difficult times and they’ve had to become even more resourceful and innovative. 

“Throughout the downturn, the SDLP has called for government intervention to protect, promote and enhance our tourism product. Key among our proposals has been a sector specific reduction in VAT for tourism and hospitality products, putting the North’s services on a level playing field with those in the South. Harmonising this rate across the island is a no brainer.  

“It’s incredibly disappointing that this proposal hasn’t been adopted. And even more disappointing that the Executive has no strategy for promoting tourism here, especially in the fields of sport and activity based tourism where the successes within boxing, golf and motor racing have put us on the map globally. The only notable development, in fact, has been the loss of the United Newark route. 

“Maximising sports and event tourism relies on convenience and ease of travel for fans. Global events like the Open Championship can only have the transformative effect on local economies if they’re accessible in as few movements as possible for international travellers. The loss of the United route is therefore extremely worrying, meaning that the lucrative US fan market is less likely to make the journey if they have to travel through London or Dublin. It also underscores the critical need to improve the transport infrastructure throughout this island as Dublin becomes the primary port for US travellers.  

“The Executive must do more to support our tourism industry as a key economic driver. The SDLP, for our part, will continue to press for the introduction of a specific strategy to promote our tourism product and a sector specific reduction in VAT to support local businesses. The Executive should take these proposals on immediately.”