Asian tourists barred from City of Culture under visa regime

ASIAN tourists holidaying in the Republic of Ireland on a valid Irish visa are barred from entering Londonderry under the current visa regime as UK City of Culture 2013 rapidly approaches.
By The Newsroom
Published 19th Mar 2012, 09:59 BST

Tourist Minister Arlene Foster has revealed that whilst holidaymakers from the Asia-Pacific region with UK visas can cross the border into Donegal the reverse is still not possible due to “security” and resource” considerations.

Responding to a Question on the matter at the Stormont Assembly she said: “I am aware that as a different jurisdiction, the Republic of Ireland operates a separate visa regime from that administered by the United Kingdom. Therefore visitors, such as those from Asia, require a United Kingdom visa to visit Northern Ireland.

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“The Republic of Ireland has introduced a Visa Waiver Scheme for nationals of 16 countries who hold a valid visa for entry into the United Kingdom.

“I understand there are security and resource implications which currently prevent the introduction of a reciprocal scheme for those entering Northern Ireland with a valid Irish visa, including visitors from Asia. I have raised this issue with the Northern Ireland Office and will continue to raise the issue with both

The Minister said she had discussed the possibility of a reciprocal scheme in respect of Northern Ireland with Hugo Swire MP, Minister of State at the NIO.

Related topics:Republic of IrelandArlene Foster