§ Lady HermonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what his latest estimate is of the value to the Northern Ireland economy of the races and events associated with(a) the North West 200 motorcycle races and (b) the Circuit of Ireland Rally. [170246]
§ Mr. GardinerGovernment do not collect this information and are therefore not in a position to estimate their value to the Northern Ireland economy.
However, the Northern Ireland Events Company (NIEC) provide financial support towards the North West 200. Based on information from the event organisers the NIEC will draw up a post evaluation report. This information will include bed revenue and tourist spend and will be required from the organisers within eight weeks of the date of the event.
Based on figures for previous years prvided by Coleraine borough council it is estimated that the North West 200 will generate approximately £5.6 million tourism revenue to the Northern Ireland economy in 2004.
Figures are not available for the Circuit of Ireland rally.