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Hogmanay celebrations ‘perfect culmination’
31/12/2009
Tourism Minister Jim Mather has hailed 2009 as the year Scotland bucked the trend and turned the credit crunch into an economic opportunity.
Mr Mather said:
"This Hogmanay marks the end of a year during which Scotland built on its traditional strengths and the outstanding success of the Homecoming celebrations to prove that it continues to be one of the "must visit" countries of the world. Early numbers for Homecoming itself show it will meet its target of £44million worth of extra tourism revenue, as well as delivering a range of wider benefits.
"The economic climate has made it a challenging, yet exciting year for Scottish tourism. The global recession has had a major impact on international travel and Scotland has not been immune to this downturn. However, with Homecoming Scotland and a tourist trade that has risen to that challenge, we have had a competitive edge that has been the envy of countries across the globe.
"The broad appeal of Homecoming - reaching out to those with ancestral ties as well as to the broader group of 'affinity' Scots who simply love Scotland's vibrant culture, our heritage and traditions, whisky, golf and of course the friendly Scottish people, has resulted in unprecedented global awareness of the rewards that accrue from visiting Scotland and meeting our people.
"Tourism makes an important contribution to the Scottish economy and it is vital that in 2010 we continue to look at new and innovative ways of attracting new visitors to our great country. We want to showcase the best of what Scotland has to offer tourists right across the UK and the world.
"As people continue to tighten their belts during these difficult economic times, it is clear that many are choosing to consider the benefits of spending leisure time in beautiful, evocative Scotland, rather than travelling abroad. The additional attraction of a white Christmas and New Year has been the icing on the cake for many travellers from abroad, as well as for us at home.
"Now moving into the New Year, we must now focus on continuing to ensure Scotland has the competitive edge and continue to attract exciting projects which can be capitalised upon to help generate additional revenue across all of Scotland."