MP hopes for Ancient East tourism inclusion

MP hopes for Ancient East tourism inclusion

1 May 2024

PLANS to extend a major new tourism initiative north of the border can provide South Down with a significant boost, according to local MP Chris Hazzard.

The five-year Ireland’s Ancient East project is being spearheaded by Tourism Ireland and is designed to bring living culture and ancient heritage to life through stories that create unique visitor experiences and support vibrant communities.

The four key pillars of the new initiative are Ancient Ireland, Early Christian Ireland, Medieval Ireland and Anglo Ireland which align with and strengthen the district’s tourism offering.

The initiative is designed to bring living culture and ancient heritage to life through stories that create unique visitor experiences and support vibrant communities.

Politicians say tourism is a vital part of the district’s economy and it’s important to remember that a rising tide for tourism lifts all boats, boosts local business, creates employment and enhances communities.

They say Strangford, Lecale and South Armagh are “very definitely” part of Ireland’s Ancient East and that given the district “unmatched tourism product”, including it in within one of Tourism Ireland’s flagship international marketing brands will provide an exponential boost to the local tourism industry.

Mr Hazzard has welcomed confirmation from Stormont Economy Minister Conor Murphy that he is to commence discussions with tourism bodies about the potential of extending Ireland’s Ancient East into South Down. 

Describing the move as a “game changer” for the local hospitality and tourism industry throughout South Down, the Sinn Féin MP said he had been calling for the extension of the tourism initiative north of the border for some time.

“I welcome confirmation from the Economy Minister that he is to commence discussions with his southern counterparts in Dublin and the wider tourism industry about using the highly successful brand in the north of Ireland,”he continued.

“There is no doubt that huge opportunities have been missed as key tourist areas including Ireland’s Ancient East, and the Wild Atlantic Way, stop at the border, excluding the north of the island.”

“With the North playing a significant role in Ireland’s story from the beginning, partition victimises this rich heritage, having a negative impact on our island.

“The principle of all-island cooperation in the area of tourism is established since the Good Friday Agreement and aims to increase tourism to the island of Ireland; and to support the north to realise its tourism potential.”

Mr Hazzard said Sinn Féin wants to grow all island tourism to protect and create good quality jobs and put money back into the pockets of workers and communities.

He added: “By working together with other parties, we can unlock the huge tourism and hospitality potential here in South Down, attracting visitors, boosting local business and strengthening our all island economy.

“We must seize the opportunity to encourage those who live on the island and those who visit here, to explore more of it.”