Tuesday, 15 October 2013
Government commits to investing in a convention centre for Cork
Over the last few months I have raised the issues of a convention centre in Cork and the economic benefits of such a facility with Government Ministers. The replies I received to my parliamentary questions and discussions with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport were very encouraging. These positive responses have now been followed by positive action that will deliver real benefits for Cork.
The Government has committed to investing in a large convention and event centre for Cork. There has been much debate about this over the years but finally we have received a firm commitment. This will be a significant boost to our local economy.
Large convention and event centres have the potential to contribute substantial financial benefits to local economies. International conferences bring high yield visitors, generating revenue of two to three times that of a leisure tourist. Since 2009 international conferences have generated €405 million for the Irish economy, bringing almost 300,000 visitors. Half of this revenue was generated by larger conferences, more than three quarters of which took place in Dublin.
The decision taken by the Government will put Cork in a position to finally get its fair share of this significant revenue. This will create many jobs in Cork during construction and when the facility comes on line the continued employment and amenity of the facility will be a significant boost for our local economy.