CALLS are increasing for “idyllic” Fermanagh to be included in some of the leading cross-border tourism schemes across the island, which could bring significant investment to the county.
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council recently approved a motion calling for the county to be included in the ‘Hidden Heartlands’ tourism programme, ahead of a busy summer period.
Under the Fáilte Ireland banner, the ‘Hidden Heartlands’ trail brings massive tourism to the various counties and it’s a major boost to the hospitality industries.
Addressing the Northern Ireland Executive at Stormont, Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA, Áine Murphy, pictured below, called for Fermanagh’s inclusion in the ‘Hidden Heartlands’ scheme.
“In my own biased opinion, [Fermanagh’s] the most idyllic constituency, I would be very keen to see its inclusion in Ireland’s ‘Hidden Heartlands’,” said Ms Murphy in Stormont.
“Our local tourism sector in Fermamagh has grown in recent years, not just because of the uniqueness of our offering.
“The local community and hospitality sector has poured so much time, energy and most importantly, investment, into making our county the best possible tourist destination it can be.”
According to the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA, Ireland’s ‘Hidden Heartlands’ scheme generated a staggering £178 million in 2019, with 449,000 overseas visitors coming to the island.
With many businesses struggling as a result of the ongoing cost of living crisis, Fermanagh’s inclusion in the Fáilte Ireland scheme would be a major boost for the local economy.
“As time moves on and the ‘Hidden Heartlands’ strategy reaches a wider audience, I cam confident that the number of visitors will grow and grow,” said Ms Murphy.
“I think it will be a missed opportunity if Fermanagh and Tyrone are not included.”
Fáilte Ireland also runs the hugely successful ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ tour. The 2,500 kilometre coastal route has become one of the top tourist attractions in Ireland and even in Europe.
Calls have recently increased for the inclusion of Fermanagh in the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ circuit.
Manager of Enniskillen Business Improvement District (BID), Noelle McAloon, feels that the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ would be of major benefit to tourism and hospitality in the county.
“If it happens, we would be just delighted,” said Ms McAloon.
“The Wild Atlantic Way has been the envy of many tourist organisations and place organisations, including myself, for years.
“At our recent board meeting [of Enniskillen BID], we discussed it and how we could try and be a part of it. This is definitely good timing,” she added.
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