Tourism figures

11% increase in visitors from Britain 16% increase in numbers from Scotland 70% increase in visiting tour operators 4% increase in visits to relatives and friends 50% growth from the Netherlands 1.7 million visitors in 2001

Overall visitor revenue increased by 4%, in real terms, with business traffic and those visiting friends and relatives growing by 8% and 4% respectively.

Sir Reg was speaking at the opening of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board's 12th annual tourism marketing workshop at Belfast's Waterfront Hall on Friday.

The largest number of representatives of international tour companies ever to visit Northern Ireland are attending.

"Northern Ireland is welcoming over 170 tour companies from 23 countries who are here to meet with more than 200 delegates from the Northern Ireland tourism trade," said Sir Reg.

Following strong performances in 2000, however, in markets further afield there was some decline

Sir Reg Empey Economy minister

"They are finding out about Northern Ireland's best kept secret and, hopefully, when they return home they will become ambassadors for our tourist industry and spread the word about the quality of our product and the variety of activities, we have to offer international travellers."

The figures show visitors from Britain increased by 11% in 2001. Sir Reg said this was partly reflected by the positive impact of new air routes and competitive fares.

'Reaping the rewards'

"Within the Great Britain growth we saw 16% more Scottish visitors," he said.

"Following strong performances in 2000, however, in markets further afield there was some decline.

"On a positive note, Scandinavian and Dutch markets enjoyed significant growth; direct access from Amsterdam no doubt impacting on the 50% growth from the Netherlands."

The minister told the tour company representatives that with Tourism Ireland up and running "we can look forward to reaping the rewards of an increased distribution and marketing presence in 23 countries internationally".