No City of Culture taskforce: Foster

TOURISM Minister Arlene foster has ruled out the establishment of a taskforce to help businesses take full advantage of the UK City of Culture 2013.

SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey suggested the move but was advised by the Minister that whilst she was committed to a co-ordinated approach to City of Culture she did not endorse a taskforce.

“Londonderry’s status as the first UK City of Culture in 2013 will present a range of opportunities to businesses in the city and the wider North West region,” she stated.

“This requires a comprehensive and co-ordinated approach from my Department, through both Invest Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board. However, I do not consider that it is necessary to establish a task force,” she declared.

“Alongside the obvious possibilities for businesses operating in the tourism sector, there is also an opportunity to use Londonderry’s tenure as UK City of Culture to present the city and wider region in the best possible light to potential inward investors. Invest Northern Ireland will be working with existing investors and local stakeholders to maximize this opportunity,” she concluded.