Northern Ireland Night Time Commission Launched To Promote Hospitality Sector

As you are probably aware the tourism and hospitality sector is a crucial part of the economy here in Northern Ireland, helping to promote the region and drive growth. So it is a welcome move that Hospitality Ulster and the Night Time Industries Association have got together and launched a new NI Night Time Commission which will help to support businesses in the sector, promote the importance of a vibrant night life across the region, and provide data and analysis to influence future policy changes that will benefit night time businesses. It will also help to celebrate the diversity and creativity of the nightlife in NI.

We are blessed to live in a beautiful part of the world which attracts millions of visitors each year. The hospitality and tourism sector employs over 70,000 people across the country and generates more than £2 billion per year so you can see how vital it is to ensure its success and its growth going forward.

NI Nightlife Is A Crucial Economic Driver

Here is what Colin Neill, chief executive of Hospitality Ulster, said about this new commission, as copied from an article on the Business Eye website. He said:

“Northern Ireland’s nightlife is more than a social activity – it’s a crucial economic driver and a reflection of our vibrant culture. We have a responsibility to support the thousands of businesses and workers who contribute to this sector and ensure that Northern Ireland’s night-time economy thrives in the face of future challenges.

“The work that the Northern Ireland Night-Time Commission will perform will ensure that arguments for recognition of that importance and legislative support are well-evidenced. We look forward to bringing our proposals to policymakers and engaging in healthy discussion about how we co-design a set of solutions to support a resilient and sustainable night-time economy.”

The Night Time Economy Must Be Fully Recognised For Its Value

In the same article, Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, is quoted as saying:

“The Northern Ireland Night Time Economy Commission is committed to shaping a future where the night-time economy is fully recognised for its value, its contribution to Northern Ireland’s identity, and its potential to create lasting positive impact. Together, we can build a future where Northern Ireland’s nightlife continues to shine on the global stage.”

And finally let us look at what Michael Stewart, the Belfast City Centre Night Czar, says in the same article:

“I welcome the formation of the Northern Ireland Night-Time Commission. The foundation of this group is an important step in ensuring that the voices of industry stakeholders are heard throughout the formation of any policies affecting the night-time economy, from taxation to transport services and public safety measures.

“The facilitation of collaboration and dialogue among key stakeholders such as local government, law enforcement, transport authorities, cultural institutions, and business owners is key towards the co-design of a night-time economy that works to the benefit of everyone involved, from operators to customers.”