Robinson welcomes Open announcement

He said: “For Northern Ireland to host another world renown sporting event is fabulous, and is testament to the respect our local golfers have in top circles and the great efforts made by the Northern Ireland Executive.

“I am looking forward to seeing the best players in the world in Northern Ireland, at what I am sure will be a sell-out event for Royal Portrush and the organisers. This will also be the ideal opportunity for us to put Northern Ireland in particular, and the North Coast in particular, onto the global tourism market.

“I congratulate Royal Portrush in achieving this success and again being host for this world famous competition.

“I also greatly welcome the boost that will occur in the local economy and look forward to watching some of the competition” concluded Mr Robinson.