Minister's speech - Tourism Ireland Business Breakfast- 12 March 2025

Note: this publication may not reflect verbatim delivery by Minister Archibald.

Good morning, everyone.

As we get ready to celebrate our patron saint, I’m delighted to be here with you on my first engagement in the United States.

Tourism is incredibly important to us.

It is an industry that provides employment in all parts of the island.

It is also a way for us to share our stories, our creativity, and our hospitality.

So, I’d like to put on record my sincere thanks to you all, for everything you do to promote Ireland as a ‘must see’ destination across America.

The US is one of our key markets.

American visitors typically stay longer.

They have an interest in our culture, our history, our food & drink, and our warm welcome.

And they are keen to tour the whole island, which helps bring prosperity to communities right across Ireland.

I’m pleased to say that getting to Ireland from the US has never been easier.

This summer there will be direct flights to Ireland from 21 different American gateways - including JFK and Newark.

I know there is a desire for the restoration of a direct flight to Belfast, and that is something we are working on.

This year, there are even more reasons to visit Ireland.

In July, the North of Ireland – where I have particular responsibility - hosts the 153^rd Open.

Thousands of American golf fans have already snapped up tickets for this prestigious tournament at Royal Portrush on the Causeway Coast.

While visiting, they will take in the sights of the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle and Mussenden Temple – where I grew up.

And there’s much more besides - to see, to savour, and enjoy.

At the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, not far from Belfast, fans can immerse themselves in an interactive experience of weaponry, costumes and props from the show – including the famous Iron Throne.

The Emmy Award winning TV show, Derry Girls, brings visitors to the City, to see the now famous mural in the city centre, and to experience the craic – and culture - of this historic place, which is now also home to Europe’s largest Halloween Festival.

And our ties with the United States are never far away.

Every year, thousands of global tourists visit Titanic Belfast, which tells the story of this tragic vessel on her maiden voyage to New York.

The industry is embracing the global drive to reach net zero.

All over the island, significant investments are delivering more sustainable travel and tourism experiences.

New for 2025, Tourism Ireland is creating trip ideas that allow visitors to spend time in communities, using more sustainable modes of transport such as electric vehicles, cycling and river cruises.

Green accommodation is also available, in places such as Finn Lough in County Fermanagh.

And for those looking to experience traditional Irish culture and music, I’m pleased to confirm that Belfast will host Ireland’s biggest traditional Irish festival, the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, in August 2026.

That is just a small sample of what Ireland has to offer.

I’m very much looking forward to hearing your perspectives on our offering and on any improvements we can make.

This is an industry that I, as Economy Minister, am very committed to, and so I really appreciate your feedback.

Thank you again for being here this morning, and for all your support in bringing American friends to our shores.

Enjoy your breakfast.

Thank you.