In response to a significant increase in arrivals to Jamaica from Ireland and with next year’s Cricket World Cup rapidly approaching, Jamaica’s Minister for Tourism, Entertainment and Culture, The Hon. Aloun Ndombet Assamba went on tour in Dublin last week to meet with key figureheads in the tourism sector.
Whilst in Dublin Ms. Ndombet Assamba took time out for a private tour of the Guinness Storehouse together with the Director General, Carole Guntley who joined the Minister in Ireland. Both the Minister and the Director General entered into the Irish spirit, immersing themselves in some of the famous Guinness heritage before learning to pull the perfect pint - complete with Shamrock - of Jamaica’s favourite drink.

As the guest of honour at a reception at the Westbury hotel, the Minister delivered a speech to media and trade on Jamaica’s thriving tourism industry and the Islands’ plans for next years Caribbean Cricket World Cup. The speech was followed by a presentation to the Irish Cricket Union, cementing the bond between the team and Jamaica which will host Ireland’s competitive matches in the tournament.

The Hon. Aloun Ndombet Assamba commented, “We’re expecting an increase in visitor arrivals from Ireland in 2007. The luck of the Irish has seen the country draw Jamaica as the host of all of Ireland’s competitive preliminary matches in the 2007 Cricket World Cup, including the team’s clash with Pakistan taking place on St Patrick’s Day. Next year’s Cricket World Cup marks a true milestone for Ireland as it is the first time Ireland has qualified and we expect the Irish fans to head out to the Caribbean in full force to support their team.”

“Throughout 2006 we’ve seen a steady and significant increase in visitors to Jamaica from Ireland and as a growing market for the Island July figures saw an up-lift of more than 70 per cent,” continued The Hon Minister Assamba.

“We continue to focus on increasing and evolving both tourism products and investment in infrastructure in Jamaica, placing emphasis on ensuring an unrivalled and authentic experience for visitors to the Island. The purpose of my visit is to further understand the needs of the Irish market and establish how we can foster relationships in this territory to work more closely.” concluded the Minister.
——-