To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail his plans to maximise the opportunities that will arise from The Open returning to Royal Portrush Golf Club in 2025.

Tourism NI, on behalf of my Department, is committed to working with key partners to deliver benefits from The 153rd Open in 2025 in excess of those of The 148th Open in 2019, which was over £100 million of combined economic and media benefit.

The Open in 2025 is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors and will showcase the North as a destination through the huge global broadcast reach and PR coverage generated, that will deliver a legacy for years to come.

An industry engagement programme is being delivered in the lead up to the event, in partnership with local authorities. This will assist and advise traders and businesses on how best to avail of opportunities that The Open will present, including providing reasons for event visitors to extend their stay and explore the wider area, alongside the ongoing support for the development of new and immersive authentic experiences that deliver on the 'Embrace a Giant Spirit' brand.

Working in close collaboration with the R&A, the intention is to nurture workforce opportunities that will have a legacy beyond July 2025, through skills development and employment before, during and after the event, as well as volunteering across the event week. Discussions are progressing with Derry and Strabane Labour Market Partnership to ensure that opportunities are realised across the region.

Tourism NI will support the industry to recruit and retain staff through its ongoing ‘Make it Here’ careers campaign and e-learning platform. In addition, they will work with Fáilte Ireland to extend its Employer Excellence Programme into the north to foster a culture of excellence in the workplace, making tourism and hospitality sectors rewarding and attractive places to work.

In partnership with Tourism Ireland, Tourism NI will deliver a significant PR and marketing campaign locally, nationally and globally, in the lead up to, during and after the event. Aside from the world-class golf offering, other experiences across the north will be promoted including high quality accommodation, restaurants, visitor attractions and entertainment. In collaboration with Invest NI, a programme of activity will also be delivered to support the presentation of our unique and compelling inward investment proposition.