Gearóid Ó hEára, Derry Sinn Féin economy spokesperson .
Sinn Féin’s Gearóid Ó hEára has said the Derry’s potential for sports-driven tourism must be realised to attract more visitors to the city.
Mr Ó hEára said: “Each year tens of thousands of people come to this city to attend or take part in sporting events.
“GAA events in particular attract many visitors to our city throughout the spring and summer months.
“Next weekend the city will see an influx of visitors from Kerry for the clash between the All-Ireland champions and Derry at Celtic Park.
“This first of the home National League games heralds the start of a series of games which will see up to 40,000 visitors coming to the city.
“As well as bringing a significant economic boost to the city, it also provides an opportunity to showcase Derry as a tourist destination.
“While they are coming for a specific sporting purpose, no doubt many will be impressed by the city and will want to return for leisure and short breaks.
“This, combined with the numbers who attend soccer games at the Brandywell and those who the city’s excellent golfing facilities, creates the potential to increase the number of visitors we attract to the city annually.”
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