Dickson Calls for Greater Support for NI’s Tourism Sector

East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson, has called for more support for Northern Ireland’s tourism sector.

Mr Dickson said: “There was much excitement when the Department for the Economy announced proposals for the Northern Ireland Holiday at Home Voucher Scheme. Unfortunately, the scheme was poorly thought out from the beginning, and has now officially been scrapped.

“The tourism and hospitality sectors have said this came as a blow, having hoped for more mid-week business in the difficult months of January, February, and March.

“I am in agreement with economists that the scheme would not have delivered value for money, but at the same time, echo the disappointment of industry that no alternative support has been forthcoming.

“Today the Economy Minister came under fire for handing back over £50 million in unspent funds. That is money that could have gone to supporting struggling businesses, many of whom having banked on the Holiday at Home Scheme”.

The Holiday at Home Scheme was intended to give households in Northern Ireland a £100 voucher off a two-night stay in accommodation after it was paid for, or a £20 voucher off a visit to a tourist attraction.