ni 2012 News & updates

Ministers launch Our Time, Our Place’ – Northern Ireland 2012

OFFICE OF THE FIRST MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER 
29 September 2011

First Minister Rt. Hon Peter D. Robinson MLA and Minister exercising the functions of the deputy First Minister John O’Dowd MLA today launched a unique programme of world-class events and activity taking place in Northern Ireland in 2012.

Through the wide range of events, and by taking pride in our people and our inspiring destinations, ‘Our Time, Our Place’ will put Northern Ireland on the global tourism map.

Centre stage will be the opening of the new iconic visitor attractions of Titanic Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway visitor centre, a series of high profile events including the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race and celebrations such as the 50th year of the Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s.

The programme kicks off early, with the MTV European Music Awards this November providing a launch pad for the 2012 series of spectacular events.

Speaking at the launch in Belfast Harbour Commissioners office, the First Minister said: “Today we launch an exceptional year of opportunity for Northern Ireland, an unprecedented chance to create a new experience of this place and its people, the opportunity to differentiate our offering to the world and take our story to a global audience.

“Investment in the Signature Projects has not only created a new sense of civic pride but compelling reasons for visitors to choose to visit Northern Ireland.

“I have no doubt this initiative will deliver growth, and go beyond tourism to help change perceptions of Northern Ireland in our own minds, in the minds of families and friends living abroad and in the hearts and minds of all potential visitors from closer to home or overseas.”

Acting Deputy First Minister John O’Dowd said: “What we must ensure is that the excitement and momentum generated next year runs on strongly into future years. That means developing good strategies to optimise the longer-term value of tourism; it means instilling a culture of continuous improvement; it means encouraging innovation in our tourism offerings.

“The eyes of the world will be upon us as we host this prestigious 2012 programme and gives us an unrivalled opportunity to position ourselves as a world class destination.

“The positive effects will last far beyond the year itself and provide a great lead in to 2013 when Derry embraces the role as the City of Culture and Belfast plays host the prestigious World Police and Fire Games.”

Tourism Minister, Arlene Foster said: “With so many outstanding events, celebrations, commemorations and capital projects coming to completion, this is our time and our place to turn the tide and confidently put Northern Ireland on the global tourism map.

“We expect this programme to significantly boost visitor numbers well beyond 2012, generate an additional £140million in revenue for the economy and create over 3,500 jobs. This is an opportunity not to be missed and I would encourage everyone to get behind our local tourist industry and to get involved, be inspired and join in the spirit of 2012.”