Local businesses shortlisted for Northern Ireland Tourism Awards
Tourism NI has unveiled the shortlist of nominations for the 2017 Northern Ireland Tourism Awards, in association with Diageo Northern Ireland.
The sought-after awards, which recognise outstanding performers in the tourism industry, will this year be presented over twelve categories including Best Event or Festival experience which is open for public vote.
The shortlist has been drawn up by a panel of judges from entries that came in from all over Northern Ireland, and includes nominations that are contesting in more than one category.
The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony to be held on Thursday 18th May at Enniskillen Castle, the highlight of the annual tourism calendar.
Commenting on the shortlist, Tourism NI Chairman Terence Brannigan said; “This year marks the 39th year of the Northern Ireland Tourism Awards and on the night the event will recognise the hard work and achievements of the people in an industry that continued to transform and to deliver excellent experiences for our visitors in 2016.
“Last year Northern Ireland welcomed record visitor numbers and we also stand proudly on the shoulders of the successful NI Year of Food and Drink, an initiative created and successfully delivered by cross industry partnership. The theme of partnership and collaboration will remain a key focus for the industry moving forward because no matter how small or large the operation, all local businesses and organisations have a lead part to play in growing tourism in 2017 and beyond.”
Paddy McKenna, Commercial Manager Diageo Northern Ireland, commented; “It’s great to see such a diverse mix of tourism and hospitality businesses, organisations and initiatives from right across Northern Ireland shortlisted for these awards. Such variety serves to highlight both the breadth and depth of our tourism offering here and reinforces the continued importance of this industry to our local economy and the community of Northern Ireland as a whole.”
To view the shortlist, purchase tickets and to vote for this year’s Best Event or Festival visit www.nitourismawards.com
