§ Mr. DoddsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to promote tourism in Northern Ireland through support for cultural traditions organised by the Loyal Orders. [122670]
§ Mr. PearsonThe Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) has mainstreamed cultural tourism as a key marketing and development opportunity for tourism in Northern Ireland. NITB seeks to facilitate the development of a visitor experience that is unique to Northern Ireland and that capitalises on the distinctive and diverse elements of Northern Ireland's cultural traditions and way of life. With specific reference to support for cultural traditions organised by the Loyal Orders, NITB is happy to consider applications seeking support for particular events that will showcase these in a manner which has potential to attract out of state visitors.