Tourism Oscars

THE Northern Ireland Tourism Awards 2012 were launched today at the Grand Opera House, Belfast, with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board announcing a new on-stage ‘Oscars’ format for this annual event. Diageo NI remains the headline sponsors for the fourth consecutive year.

The awards ceremony will take place on May 21, mid way through a year that will shine a huge spotlight on tourism with the opening of Titanic Belfast and the brand new Causeway visitor centre, the Irish Open, Clipper Round the World Yacht Race and hundreds of other celebrations and commemorations under the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s banner ni2012 Our Time Our Place.

With a change to the traditional format, this year’s event is not only about celebrating success and achievement but will combine with an opportunity for the sector to come together and showcase the unique culture and heritage that attracts our visitors. Eleven categories are up for grabs and NITB is encouraging organisations of all sizes to apply.

Laura McCorry, NITB Director of Corporate Development said, “Encouraging best practice within tourism allows us to continuously promote new ideas and higher standards, enhancing Northern Ireland’s reputation as a ‘must see’ destination.”

“Having come so far in the tourism industry over the last five years and with so many investment projects supported by NITB coming to completion in 2012, this is our time to put Northern Ireland firmly on the global map. The new format will make this a showstopper event and ensure that tourism is recognised as the increasing growth industry that it is.”

Clare Strawson from Diageo Northern Ireland said, “2012 is a very exciting year for Northern Ireland, demonstrated once again by the significance of this year’s Tourism Awards. Through our thriving tourism industry Northern Ireland is fast becoming one of Europe’s most captivating destinations. Diageo is proud to work in partnership with the tourism and hospitality industry in the successful marketing and ongoing development of tourism within Northern Ireland.”

The final shortlist will be published in the spring and winners will be announced at the gala event on Monday 21 May 2012 at the Grand Opera House, Belfast.

Entry forms can be downloaded www.nitourismawards.org. You can also request forms by contacting Creative Events on 0289023 5001. Closing date for entries is by noon on 20 February 2012.

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