Tourism is a crucial aspect of the Causeway Coast and Glens area and we recently celebrated our best ever performance in the sector. Over one million overnight trips to the destination were recorded for the first time generating £194m for our economy. Our stunning scenery, visitor attractions and world class events calendar combine to make a very attractive offering. Many of our employment opportunities are reliant on the hospitality industry and we must continue to ensure its future growth and sustainability.  Looking ahead to next year, the return of The Open represents another huge opportunity for the area. It is set to be the biggest sporting event ever held here, attracting 190,000 spectators and a worldwide television audience, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have. Before I finish, I would like to tell you about TinyLife, my chosen charity for the year ahead. The organisation does so much to help premature and vulnerable babies and their families, and I have seen first-hand the difference its volunteers and services can make. Back in August we held a very successful incubator push and I hope you will support our future fundraising ventures as well. 

Councillor Brenda Chivers