Foster highlights food as key tourism driver

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster today encouraged the tourism industry to explore the untapped potential of Northern Ireland food.

The Minister was attending the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) “Eat NI” Masterclass at Lough Erne Golf Resort, Fermanagh. The Masterclass was part of NITB’s Industry Development Programme, which aims to support tourism professionals at a time of huge potential in Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the event, Arlene Foster highlighted Northern Ireland’s wealth of natural food resources, the stunning scenery and strong agricultural system particularly where the Masterclass was taking place, in County Fermanagh.

The Minister said: “Food continues to establish itself as a key driver for tourism. The most recent Northern Ireland Passenger Survey indicates that, of the £540million spent by overseas and domestic tourists, 33% of this was spent on food and drink, which equates to an impressive £178.2million.

“The income generated by food and drink was even higher than that for accommodation. This shows the importance of food and drink to the visitor, and the local economy.

“Our local produce, such as fresh Dexter beef from Fermanagh, Lough Neagh eels which are in demand all over the world, our famous Bushmills Whiskey and Dulse from Ballycastle, provide a unique offering to visitors and sets Northern Ireland apart from the competition.”

The keynote speaker at the Eat NI Masterclass was Darina Allen who runs the internationally renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School in County Cork. Darina took the opportunity to share with the industry her experience of running a cookery school, hotel and restaurant. She also outlined the importance of local food festivals and farmer’s markets.

Darina Allen said: “Northern Ireland has a varied and unique food offering which sets it apart from many other destinations. I believe that food can turn a good holiday into a great holiday, encouraging visitors to return time and time again. I hope that through today’s Masterclass I can share some of my own experience as well as a few practical ideas to help those who work in the industry maximize the potential of food.”

Alan Clarke, NITB Chief Executive encouraged the industry to play their part in delivering world class experiences for visitors. He said:“Food is not just a commodity but an essential part of the holiday experience. Our visitors enjoy finding Northern Ireland food on menus and they want to hear the stories behind the food.

“It is an exciting time for tourism here, but fulfilling our potential as a leading edge destination is everyone’s responsibility. As an industry we must all focus on providing the best possible visitor experience and we must listen to the needs of our visitors. Food will play a central role in making that happen, and encouraging our visitors to return time and time again.

“We have much to be proud of, and it is time to tell the rest of the world about what we have to offer.”

The Masterclass was attended by tourism professionals and food experts from across Northern Ireland.

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