This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Rallying call to boost tourism
27/10/2005
Everyone in Scotland has a part to play in making our country a must visit, must return holiday destination, Tourism Minister Patricia Ferguson said today.
Speaking ahead of the Thistle Awards in Edinburgh - the Oscars of Scottish tourism - the Minister said that tourism is everyone's business.
Ms Ferguson said:
"We all have to talk Scotland up; we have to learn to see ourselves as others see us. Our visitors love Scotland; they love the people and they love our quality of life.
"They love our history, our heritage, our scenery and our culture.
"They tell us that it is the people of Scotland who make a visit to this great country unforgettable. It is our warmth, generosity and friendliness that bring so many of them back time and time again.
"I want everyone to understand the importance of welcoming our guests not just to our country, but to our life."
The Thistle Awards take place at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre.