THE announcement by Prime Minister David Cameron that next year’s G8 summit of world leaders will be held in Co Fermanagh is a terrific boost for Northern Ireland, from both a publicity and a tourism perspective.
The five-star Lough Erne hotel/golf resort outside Enniskillen is the venue for next June’s meeting of leaders of the world’s eight richest nations and the global prestige from hosting such an event has enormous potential for this part of the UK.
David Cameron spoke highly of Northern Ireland when he visited Co Armagh yesterday, stating: “I want the world to see just what a fantastic place Northern Ireland is.”
The luxury Lough Erne resort has experienced financial difficulties and is currently in administration, but there is now the opportunity to sell its five-star facilities to leaders and entourages of the world’s eight most powerful countries – United States, Canada, Russia, United Kingdom, Japan, France, Italy and Germany.
It will be one of the most high-profile events ever witnessed in Northern Ireland, with American President Barack Obama in the driving seat alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin. The last time a G8 summit was held in the UK was at Gleneagles, Scotland in 2005 and it certainly produced a big dividend for Scottish tourism and the economy.
David Cameron was in spin-doctor mode when he said: “World leaders are going to be here next year debating the issues that are vital to the future of our world, vital to Northern Ireland’s future and seeing this brilliant, beautiful part of the UK.”
His words were echoed by First Minister Peter Robinson who tweeted: “G8 decision is vote of confidence in Northern Ireland. Very welcome, great opportunity to showcase the Province.”