Rogers Meets New Head Of Tourism NI

Business in South Down could be improving soon if new tourism initiatives get off the ground.

South Down MLA Seán Rogers (SDLP) has met with John McGrillen, the recently appointed Chief Executive of Tourism NI.

[caption id="attachment_32260" align="alignright" width="200"]Séan Rogers MLA has met with John McGrillen,  the head of Tourism NI. Séan Rogers MLA has met with John McGrillen, the head of Tourism NI.[/caption]

Mr Rogers said: “I had a very useful meeting with John McGrillen in which we discussed how the outstanding tourism product of the Mournes and St Patrick’s country could be further developed.

“Tourism NI along with the local Newry Mourne and Down District Council needs to tap into trade from the South of Ireland as only a third of these visitors travel North. We must use every tool in the kit and the soon to be developed Greencastle Ferry is a good start.

“I again highlighted the Gondola/Cable Car initiative which would allow for those less able to see the beauty of the Mournes and would, without doubt, be a huge catalyst in developing tourism in the area.

“The need for additional bed space was discussed, as was the urgent need for the Mournes and St Patrick’s Country to be advertised and promoted as much as the North Coast – something that to date, has not been happening.

“We have been very fortunate to host the likes of the Irish Open and did so with rave reviews – we have so much to offer a visitor in our area and need to do our utmost to promote it at all times,”  added Mr Rogers.

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