The coastal route currently stretches from Cork to Donegal for tourism purposes, however, while in office, previous Economy Minister Conor Murphy stated he wanted to have discussions about extending the brand to the Causeway coastal route.

However, Mr Honeyford questioned Tourism Ireland officials at today’s Assembly Economy Committee meeting (25 June) and was told it was not currently being pursued. The Lagan Valley MLA said the Economy Minister needed to shed light on the matter.

“The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most successful tourism brands across the world, bringing thousands of visitors to Ireland every year,” he said.

“But the Atlantic coast doesn’t stop at Donegal. There is no reason why Derry-Londonderry, Portstewart, Portrush or the Giant’s Causeway shouldn’t have the same benefits as areas in the south. A shared island should work both ways.

“The Economy Minister needs to clarify why Tourism Ireland is no longer pursuing the extension of the Wild Atlantic Way across the north coast of Northern Ireland, given her party colleague and predecessor said it was a possibility.

“Much more could and should be done with the north coast to help local people and businesses benefit, and the Wild Atlantic Way is a huge step towards doing exactly that.”