Minister says it's 'not possible' to include Armagh and Down in Ireland's Ancient East brand

The Irish Minister for Tourism has said it is not possible for Counties Armagh and Down to be included under the Ireland's Ancient East brand.

It follows the passing of a Newry, Mourne and Down Council motion in November 22 asking for the council to formally write and request that the area would be included in the brand.

Council CEO Marie Ward wrote to the minister after the motion was passed and in  her reply Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media wrote that her remit didn't extend to Northern Ireland. The Minister in a letter sent to Council said  "Because Fáilte Ireland's remit does not extend to Northern Ireland, it is not possible to include Counties Armagh and Down in Ireland's Ancient East tourism experience brand."

By way of explaining the Minister said "Fáilte Ireland's role is to support the long-term sustainable growth of tourism in Ireland. Tourism Northern Ireland, which is a body under the aegis of th eDepartment for the Economy in the North, is responsible for the development of tourism in Northern Ireland."

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council also supported the motion. The ABC Council also wrote to the Minister to seek assurances that the counties are included.

The Ministers letter is included in correspondence in the Agenda for Monday's January full council meeting.