Tourism Ireland Chief Executive Visits Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council was delighted to welcome Tourism Ireland Chief Executive, Alice Mansergh to Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark recently. The visit was part of a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening relationships with key partners in the tourism industry and exploring new opportunities for collaboration.

The Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich geological heritage and vibrant tourism offerings. During the visit, Ms. Mansergh engaged with local businesses to discuss mutual goals and strategies to enhance the visitor experience.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, “We are delighted to welcome Ms. Mansergh to Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark and to provide an opportunity for her to engage with our local tourism providers as we continue to promote our stunning area on the International market. This highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving sustainable growth in our region.”

Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, Alice Mansergh said, “It was a pleasure to spend time in the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark and to hear directly from tourism providers about their passion and commitment to offering a first-class experience for overseas visitors.

“We know tourists are drawn to visit Northern Ireland based on our exceptional scenery, rich heritage and warm hospitality. This destination has so much to offer from mountain adventures and chocolate making to whiskey distilleries and castle stays.

“Tourism Ireland has an extensive programme of promotions well underway for Northern Ireland in 2024, including our recent campaign with County Down native Rory Best and ‘The Telegraph’ shining a spotlight on all the great experiences on offer in the area.  So far this year we have hosted tourism businesses from the region at key industry events including ITB in Berlin and IMEX in Frankfurt and welcomed travel professionals and specialist media from the US, Belgium, and the Netherlands on familiarisation visits.  

“Destinations like here have so much to offer visitors and we look forward to continued collaboration with our tourism partners with the aim of increasing the value of overseas tourism to Northern Ireland, sustainably supporting economies, communities, and the environment.”

During her visit, Ms Mansergh toured various accommodation and experience providers within the Geopark, gaining firsthand insight into the unique offerings that draw visitors from around the world.