Now is the time for Canadians to visit Northern Ireland

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has promoted Northern Ireland as a must-see destination during her visit to Canada.

The Minister addressed an audience of tour operators and travel writers in Toronto today, where she told them that there has never been a better time for Canadians to visit the region.

Arlene Foster said: “The combination of a stronger Canadian dollar, which will go around 20% further in Northern Ireland than last year, with lower priced goods and services, such as competitively priced accommodation, as well as the availability of great value air fares and packages, makes 2009 the year to travel and experience our part of the world.

“Canadian visitors are very significant to our local economy, as they continue to deliver some of the highest spending and longest staying travellers. With around 2.5million Canadians claiming Ulster heritage, my Department, alongside Tourism Ireland, is working hard to promote Northern Ireland as a must-see holiday destination.”

The Minister highlighted the work that has been ongoing at home, to ensure the continued improvement of the Northern Ireland tourism experience.

She said: “The Northern Ireland Government recognises tourism as an engine for growth and is making strides to enhance the visitor experience.

“I recently launched a £2million Tourism Innovation Fund, which will help boost tourism with its focus on bringing local stories to life for visitors. We are also working towards delivering five world-class signature tourism projects which are rooted in Northern Ireland history, heritage and landscape.

“Northern Ireland offers overseas visitors a warm welcome, combined with a mix of history and culture, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. This is the perfect fit for the Canadian traveller whom I understand has a strong interest in heritage, culture and scenery.”

Notes to Editors:

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