Northern Ireland

International tourism conference in Belfast to mark Good Friday Agreement anniversary

A major international peace tourism conference will be held in Belfast on April 6
A major international peace tourism conference will be held in Belfast on April 6
By Suzanne McGonagle

AN international tourism conference is due to take place in Belfast next month to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

St Mary's University College will be the venue for the 'Tourism brings Peace... Peace brings Tourism' event, which will see figures from international and national tourism organizations gather, as well as people from the arts, sports, and media.

The 'International Peace Tourism Conference' will be held on April 6 and has been organised by west Belfast tourism organisation Fáilte Feirste Thiar and Féile an Phobail.

Delegates will discuss the growth in tourism in Belfast, and across the island of Ireland, over the past 25 years and how the Good Friday Agreement paved the way for that growth.

Harry Connolly from Fáilte Feirste Thiar said: "The Good Friday Agreement sought to develop cross-border partnerships, a renewed commitment to human rights and a shared commitment to enhancing the well-being of citizens. 

"This ground-breaking event will reflect on these ambitions through the lens of tourism.

"We will hear the stories of inspirational people who have reimagined and changed the perception of their destinations by creating extraordinary experiences for visitors and residents by exploring different aspects of the shift from conflict to peace."

Titanic Belfast is among the most popular destinations for tourists in the city
Titanic Belfast is among the most popular destinations for tourists in the city

Kevin Gamble from Féile an Phobail added: "In the 35 years since the first Féile and the 25 years since the 1998 peace agreement, west Belfast and indeed the city of Belfast have experienced incredible growth in tourist numbers, with the resulting boost to the local economy and the creation of many jobs in the tourism and hospitality industries. 

"This conference will hear from those at the forefront of that growth in tourism in Belfast, and across Ireland, and how the Good Friday Agreement paved the way for that growth.

"We will also hear of the potential that exists for the future, and the importance of continuing and protecting the progress that has been made so that we can all keep building for generations to come."

The event is open to the public and attendance can be confirmed by emailing sean@visitwestbelfast.com.