Economy Minister Gordon Lyons has paid a visit to the new innovation exhibition at the Ulster Transport Museum in Cultra, as part of the ‘We’re Good to Go’ campaign.
The Minister met the Chief Executive of National Museums Northern Ireland (NMNI), Kathryn Thomson, in conjunction with Tourism NI, to explore the Museum of Innovation.
Speaking after the visit, Minister Lyons said:
“This new Museum of Innovation adds to Northern Ireland’s rich tourism offering, persuading potential visitors that there are things to do and see when they come here. The museum charts Northern Ireland’s vibrant history of innovating in the fields of science, technology and industry and is a fascinating place to explore.
“It is encouraging to see more local tourism businesses adopt the ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry standard as a tool to aid recovery and rebuild our local economy. The charter mark is a visible reassurance for customers that businesses are adhering to government and public health guidance.
“I would encourage everyone enjoying a staycation to explore Northern Ireland, including this excellent new addition to the tourism offering here.”
Experiences Development Officer at Tourism NI, Sheena Dickson, commented:
“This is another exciting addition to the visitor experience here in Northern Ireland and will bring the legacy of innovators in Northern Ireland to life in an enjoyable way for visitors and locals alike. The museum is also certified under the ‘Good to Go’ industry mark, which is important as it reassures consumers that businesses have met all the recommended safety guidelines.
“The experience aligns perfectly with our experience brand ‘Northern Ireland Embrace a Giant Spirit’ and the message we want to send in Northern Ireland, which is to support local and explore what is on our doorstep. This innovative and new experience will be important in supporting tourism recovery from the impact of Covid-19.”
Kathryn Thomson, Chief Executive of National Museums NI, added:
“We were thrilled to be able to open our museums back up to the public with exciting new developments such as our Museum of Innovation gallery at the Ulster Transport Museum. We hope to not only offer people a safe and enjoyable experience, but also provide a platform for young and old to be inspired by fascinating local stories of ingenuity as we collectively look towards a decade of innovation and ambition.”
All four NMNI museums – the Ulster Folk Museum, Ulster Transport Museum, Ulster Museum and Ulster American Folk Park – have been awarded the ‘We’re Good to Go’ mark, a UK-wide industry standard and consumer mark to provide reassurance to businesses, customers and communities that safe working guidelines in relation to Covid-19 have been adopted.
Accommodation, visitor attractions, restaurants and pubs, business conference and events venues, and tour and coach operators are currently eligible to apply.
For further information on the ‘We’re Good to Go’ charter mark, and to apply, visit: