SHADOW SECRETARY GETS TASTE OF GREAT ULSTER PUBS

09 May 2014

Pubs of Ulster welcomed Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Ivan Lewis MP to Belfast to get the inside track on the first ever Great Ulster Pub Week.

Mr Lewis made a trip to the city on Thursday 8th May - the penultimate day of the exciting 9 day pub celebreation - to hear all about the new Pubs of Ulster led initiative, which was designed to champion and celebrate Ulster’s pubs for the role they play in the cultural and social fabric of life in Northern Ireland.

The inaugural Great Ulster Pub Week has been a huge success, with over 160 pubs hosting hundreds of unique events, great food and great entertainment for nine days and nine nights, 1-9 May 2014. 

During his visit, Mr Lewis joined Pubs of Ulster CEO, Colin Neill for lunch in Belfast bar, The Albany - just one of the many participating local pubs - and met with local artist, Brian Spencer who has been touring Northern Ireland, drawing caricatures of customers in participating Great Ulster Pub Week pubs.
 

Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Pubs of Ulster said: “We are encouraged that the Shadow Secretary of State has come to Northern Ireland to meet local publicans and learn about Pubs of Ulster’s latest campaign to promote our great local pubs.

“The Great Ulster Pub has highlighted many of the great pubs we have right across Northern Ireland; showcasing their importance, not solely in economic terms but also the contribution they make to the local communities they serve.”

Shadow Secretary of State, Ivan Lewis said: “Pubs make a significant contribution to the Northern Ireland economy, and also provide a hub for socialising. The high standards I experienced at The Albany today are testament to the quality of the hospitality industry in Northern Ireland, which makes it a brilliant place for tourists and locals alike. I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit such a thriving local business.”