SDLP Derry City and Strabane District Council Group Leader councillor Brian Tierney has said there is disappointment in the city that the Clipper fleet won’t return to Derry in 2024.
Council has announced that Derry will not be a stop in the 2024 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
Said Cllr Tierney: “There will be real disappointment in Derry that the Clipper fleet will not return to our city as part of the 2024 Round the World Yacht Race.
“The five visits to our city by the fleet have been major events and have helped grow our Maritime Festival to the point where it attracts thousands of visitors to our city every year.
“It’s important that we don’t let this hinder the growth of the festival and the SDLP will work with council to determine how we can still make it a huge success even without serving as a clipper stop.
“I hope that we will continue our close relationship with the yacht race in the hopes of welcoming the Clipper fleet back to our city in the near future.”
SDLP Economy Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin said: “The regular visits of the Clipper fleet to Derry and the establishment of the Maritime Festival have been a huge boost to our local economy, attracting large numbers of visitors to the city and generating millions in revenue.
“It’s important that we build on this success and focus on the rich maritime history that exists right across this area to grow the festival and our tourism offering.
“Taking part in the round the world yacht race has played a key role in establishing Derry as a major events destination that is known around the world for events like our yearly Halloween festival.
“We have proven time and time again that our city offers an unforgettable experience to visitors and I hope that we will keep working to attract major events to Derry.”
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