Fabulous flavours on the menu in Fermanagh
Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister, Arlene Foster is joined by Ferghal Purcell, general manager of the Lough Erne Resort and Mandy Patrick, president, Northern Ireland Hotels Federation at the ‘Flavours of Fermanagh’ gourmet dinner.
Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster has praised Northern Ireland’s ‘ingredient makers’ at an event to celebrate the legacy of the G8 summit at the Lough Erne Resort & Spa.
Organised by the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF), the Fermanagh event showcased dishes created by the resort’s executive chef, Noel McMeel, using local ingredients.
Commending the NIHF for its initiative, Mrs Foster said that the global media attention which the G8 had attracted to the region had been “unprecedented”:
“It allowed us to step forward on the national and international stage to raise our profile and to help change perceptions about Northern Ireland,” she added. “Its success as the most peaceful ever G8 Summit created a catalyst for the ongoing development of Fermanagh and Northern Ireland as an attractive and high quality destination.”
Mandy Patrick, president of the NIHF, said that it had been “fantastic to see what many feel is a hidden gem, showcased on the world stage”. and she added:
“This evening, we have been delighted to work with the team at Lough Erne to create a unique experience featuring a gourmet menu created by their executive chef, Noel McMeel using superb local ingredients. Dining has become such an important part of the visitor experience and events like this show that we can compete with the best culinary destinations in the world.”
Arlene Foster acknowledged the essential role of food and drink in the Northern Irish economy, and added:
“Like the rest of Northern Ireland, producers here in Fermanagh are ‘ingredient makers’ and our quality local produce is what fuels outstanding menus and great restaurants, as well as a thriving farmers’ market scene, food festivals, tours, cookery schools and food events throughout the country.
