North Antrim Ulster Unionist MLA Robin Swann has called for the Minister of Enterprise Trade and Investment and the Minister of Culture Arts and Leisure to work together following the release of figures indicating a reduction in the number of overseas visitors coming to Northern Ireland to avail of angling opportunities.
Mr Swann, who is his Party's spokesman on Culture, Arts & Leisure issues, said:
"Between 2010 and 2011 the numbers of people visiting Northern Ireland specifically to fish fell from 3900 to 1700 and the number who participated in fishing while here for other purposes fell from 10200 to 5900. Clearly for an activity for which Northern Ireland was once the venue of choice for many anglers the significant reduction comes both as a shock and a clear indication that more needs to be done.
Every other neighbouring jurisdiction has clear targets to increase angling activity and improve the tourist potential of the sport. Here in Northern Ireland tha lack of a clear focus impacts greatly on those who make their living from angling tourism with a clear knock on
effect on accommodation providers.
I call upon the two Ministers to jointly initiate a clear strategy to improve the potential of our angling estate and the marketing of this important tourism product overseas."
ENDS