The MLA for East Belfast is seeking clarity as to whether the £1 million announced is the total budget for both the International Tourism Events Fund and the Tourism Events Sponsorship Scheme, which were previously £1.28 million and £1.13 million respectively.
The Minister took the decision to administer a 100 percent cut to this fund in October 2014 jeopardising excellent events such as Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Belfast Film Festival and Culture Night Belfast.
Chris Lyttle MLA said: “I welcome the u-turn by the Enterprise Minister on the Tourism Events Fund and would commend everyone involved with the campaign to reverse the shortsighted decision to apply a disproportionate 100 percent cut to this fund.
“I am; however, concerned that the fund could still be facing a disproportionate cut of around 60 percent on the 2014/15 budget.
“I am seeking clarification from the Enterprise Minister as to whether the £1million allocated is the total budget for both the International Tourism Events Fund and the Tourism Events Sponsorship Scheme, which were previously £1.28 million and £1.13 million each respectively.
“This fund has helped exciting and vibrant events and festivals like the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Culture Night and Belfast Mela contribute to social and economic regeneration in our community.
“Events and festivals have a vital role to play in building peace and prosperity and Tourism Events Fund recipients generated £3 for every £1 received in 2014/15.
“I hope the Enterprise Minister will not only reinstate this fund but ensure it is made available to events on an adequate and sustainable basis.”