Tourism NI chief executive John McGrillen has met with local tourism industry representatives in Derry city to discuss responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and plans going forward.
Details
Tourism NI stated on its website, "Local tourism representatives across Derry-Londonderry recently welcomed the chief executive of Tourism NI, John McGrillen, to the city to hear how local businesses have responded to the pandemic as well as future projects.
"During his visit, Mr. McGrillen met with the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Graham Warke, to discuss the districts progress towards recovery and the councils plans to draw more visitors to the area. Mr. McGrillen also spoke with business owners and staff across the city to find out how they are facing the continued challenge of the pandemic.
"The visit concluded with a site tour of the Eden Project Foyle and an overview of its plans to increase the number of visitors to the area and boost the local economy."
McGrillen Statements
In a statement published on Tourism NI's website, McGrillen said, "I was delighted to be in Derry-Londonderry to meet with representatives of the local tourism industry and to hear how businesses are doing during these very challenging times."
McGrillen added, "The outbreak of the COVID-19 had a massive impact on the tourism and hospitality sector. The Tourism Recovery Action Plan will play a key role in helping the sector thrive now and in the future. Recovery will take time, however I am confident that by the end of 2022 the tourism industry in Northern Ireland could be back to 80 percent of the activity and employment levels of 2019 and see a full recovery by the end of 2024.
"Thank you to Odhran Dunne and the Visit Derry team for hosting my visit. It was great to see the new Visitor Information Centre which brings to life all the experiences and attractions the city has to offer. It also compliments our experience brand, 'Embrace a Giant Spirit', and sends a clear message to the people here that they should support local and explore what is on our doorstep."
Warke Statement
In a statement also published on Tourism NI's website, Warke said, "It was fantastic to meet John and welcome him to the Guildhall.
"We had a great discussion about the fantastic tourism offerings within our city and district, and the potential for the future as we look ahead to welcoming more visitors back to this region in the months ahead.
"I look forward to continuing our close relationship with Tourism NI and all partners to promote our council area as a prime tourist destination."
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