§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the potential for tourism in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. AncramTourism in Northern Ireland clearly has the potential to contribute significantly to the local economy. The Northern Ireland tourist board is working closely with the tourism industry to ensure that this potential is turned into reality.
The announcement last week of a £6.8 million joint marketing initiative by the tourism authorities in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, together with the private sector, will do much to capitalise on new opportunities.
§ Mr. Jacques ArnoldTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps are being taken to improve cross-border co-operation in tourism.
§ Mr. AncramThe Northern Ireland tourist board works closely with its counterpart in the Republic of Ireland, Bord Failte, jointly to market the island of Ireland as a quality tourist destination. Both Governments announced last week that this co-operation will be further developed and expanded.