Ellvena Graham OBE to chair Economic Advisory Group

Ellvena Graham OBE

The Northern Ireland Executive published its five-stage plan to ease the lockdown measures in May. This plan has given businesses in the tourism sector and beyond a roadmap to follow when making plans to reopen so that they can successfully do so in the safest possible way.

Earlier this week Economy Minister Diane Dodds expressed her belief that the tourism industry could adapt successfully to the new circumstances brought about by the virus stating:

“In line with the Executive’s five-stage plan to come out of lockdown, we are taking steps now to help the economy recover as a whole. This is being done gradually and in stages. Tourism has a vital role to play in this. Tourism recovery will in the first instance begin at home, then focus on close to home markets such as the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain before venturing into international markets.”

Minister Dodds also confirmed that Ellvena Graham OBE, Chairman of BWUH Ltd. Board of Directors will chair the recently reconvened Economic Advisory Group, which will consider how the wider economy rebuilds during recovery.

Welcoming the appointment, the Minister said:

No doubt her experience and expertise across business will be invaluable as we plot our way through the next number of years and prepare for opportunities ahead in future jobs and markets.

The tourism sector plays a significant role in Northern Ireland’s economic development. ICC Belfast hosted business events have delivered an economic impact of over £100m in the past four years. Throughout these four years, the venue has played host to hundreds of high-profile Association and Corporate events and as soon as it is safe to do so, will return to delivering citywide event experiences like no other.