Ulster Unionist Tourism Spokesperson, Sandra Overend MLA is pedalling the positives of the announcement of the routes of the Giro d’Italia across Northern Ireland in 2014 and believes we should celebrate the unique economic opportunity that this event creates for our region.
The Mid Ulster MLA, who is a member of the APG on Cycling and a keen cyclist said:
“Northern Ireland’s involvement in the Giro d’Italia 2014 is fantastic news for our tourism industry. It presents a unique opportunity for economic benefit and we must ensure that we properly capitalise on it.’
“As a member of the All Party Group on cycling I am also keen that we capitalise on the legacy of this event by getting more local people involved in cycling. While there will be some that may be disappointed that the event does not come into their area, I feel that it is imperative that everyone should tap into the opportunity that this event creates - I would love to see local communities and cycling clubs getting involved in 2014 by organising their own events to celebrate the Giro d'Italia coming to Northern Ireland and promoting their unique tourism potential to the flocks of visitors that will be visiting our country.'
“My Party colleague, the Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has talked about the cycling revolution in Northern and I know that he is working to ensure that the roads are in great condition for the competitors. Indeed he has already set up a cycling unit within his Department which will seek to improve infrastructure.’