The workshop was aimed at promoting tourism and hospitality and highlighting the indigenous products and expertise of the food sectors in both regions.
Speaking at the conference, the Minister explained: “Today’s event is very important to local tourism and I am very pleased to be here to address delegates. In recent years, the importance of rural and food tourism and the extent to which it can benefit from cross-border co-operation have received greater recognition. This workshop is an excellent example of how working together can benefit local communities across the border regions.
“The Department recognises the substantial economic and social development opportunities that tourism holds for rural areas and those who live in them. The new Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 allocates £12 million specifically to encourage rural tourism. I would therefore encourage anyone with an idea, to bring it forward to the partnerships tasked with implementing the programme when they are up and running in autumn 2008.”
Notes to Editors:
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