§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
What steps they are taking to develop or support Ulster Scots cultural tourism in the local council areas of Lame and North Down. [HL5211]
§ Baroness AmosThe Natural Resource Rural Tourism Initiative (NRRTi), jointly developed by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Department of the Environment, is aimed at developing tourism, including cultural tourism, in selected rural areas throughout Northern Ireland. NRRTi funding has been made available during the period 2002–06 to the Causeway Coast and Antrim Glens. This funding can be accessed by Larne Borough Council.
The Ulster Scots Agency, which receives core funding from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, provides some financial support for Ulster Scots events in Larne and North Down Council areas. The support of such community activity provides an impetus and focus for the development and marketing of cultural tourism.
§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
From what sources the Northern Ireland Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure receives advice on Ulster-Scots culture, history, language and identity. [HL5243]
329WA
§ Baroness AmosI would refer the noble Lord to the Answer given on 7 January 2003(WA 171). In addition to this expert advice the department has received the advice of many people within the Ulster-Scots linguistic and cultural community, for example during the ongoing Future Search consultation process.