A new industry leadership group, co-chaired by Tourism Minister
, is being set up to support the
tourism and hospitality sectors and drive Scotland’s ambition to
be a world leader in 21st century tourism.
The group will also help to deliver the national tourism
strategy, Scotland Outlook 2030, by aiming to grow the value and
enhance the benefits of tourism across Scotland whilst delivering
the very best for visitors, businesses and communities.
Commenting on the announcement, Tourism Minister said:
“The establishment of this new Tourism and Hospitality Industry
Leadership Group will ensure we can collaborate on solutions to
meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the
sector. I look forward to discussing in detail with members how
we can work together to deliver Scotland Outlook 2030 and more
widely the National Strategy for Economic Transformation.
“Over the course of the last couple of years, the Scottish
Tourism Emergency Response Group (STERG) has played a crucial
role to support the tourism and hospitality sector in the
immediate recovery from the pandemic. As we continue to recover
from the effects and grow our economy again, there are different
challenges impacting the sector, including Brexit and the Cost
Emergency.
“I am grateful to the members of STERG, the work of the group
proved invaluable. I look forward to working as closely with the
new ILG, as the Scottish Government remains fully committed to
becoming a world leader in 21st century tourism.”
Background
The Scottish Government’s support for the tourism and hospitality
sector was aided by the Scottish Tourism Emergency Response Group
(STERG) made up of Scottish Government, Scottish Tourism
Alliance, Visit Scotland and enterprise agencies.
There will be an open process for interested parties to submit an
expression of interest in joining the T&H ILG. Members
will join as individuals, bringing their skills experience and
sector knowledge to the Group.
Consideration will be given by a panel consisting of
VisitScotland, Scottish Tourism Alliance and the Scottish
Government. Members from a range of sectors and communities will
be invited to join the ILG on a voluntary basis and the group is
expected to convene at least four times a year, with the first
meeting taking place in early November.
Diversity and inclusion is at the core of the ILG and expressions
of interest from underrepresented groups including women,
disabled people, those from black and ethnic minority
communities, LGBTI+ people, and under 50s are welcomed.
Expressions of interest can be made from today at (LINK TO
VISITSCOTLAND RECRUITMENT WEBSITE) until September
18th.
