Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Hosts Tourism Conference 2025: “Tourism through a Regenerative Lens”

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is proud to announce the Tourism Conference 2025, themed “Tourism through a Regenerative Lens”, which will take place on Thursday, 27 February 2025, at the Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel in Enniskillen. The event promises to be a dynamic gathering of industry leaders, tourism professionals, academics, local authorities, and community stakeholders, all working together to explore innovative and sustainable approaches to tourism development.

The conference will offer delegates a unique opportunity to learn about the future of tourism, with a focus on regenerative practices that create lasting, positive impacts on businesses, communities, and the environment. Attendees will hear from a distinguished lineup of experts and thought leaders who will share their insights and strategies for achieving a more balanced and sustainable tourism economy.

Event Host:

The conference will be hosted by Pól Ó Conghaile, Travel Editor with The Irish Independent and a respected travel expert. Pól is a multiple award-winning travel writer and a frequent contributor to National Geographic Traveller and national TV and radio programmes.

Featured Speakers:

• David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development at Tourism NI, will discuss the implementation of tourism recovery interventions and the exciting potential of the City and Growth Deals across Northern Ireland.
• Tina O’Dwyer, Founder and CEO of The Tourism Space, will present on sustainable, regenerative, and collaborative approaches to tourism, offering valuable insights into the future of the sector.
• Gráinne O’Connor, Manager of Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, will share her extensive experience in land use planning, sustainable tourism, and landscape management in the context of the Geopark’s cross-border designation.
• Orla Carroll, Director of Product Development at Fáilte Ireland, will discuss the creation of tourism programs that enhance visitor experiences and contribute to local economic growth.
• Paddy Mathews, Head of Operations for Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, will provide an overview of the challenges and successes behind creating a distinctive tourism brand in Ireland’s rural communities.
• Kendall Quadling, Sales and Relationship Manager, will take delegates through the story of Finn Lough and how they have created their niche in the field of sustainable tourism.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry stated:

“This conference represents a pivotal moment for the future of tourism in our region and beyond.  By focusing on regenerative tourism, we hope to inspire a more balanced and holistic approach to tourism development—one that supports businesses, empowers communities, and preserves our environment for future generations.”

The Fermanagh and Omagh Tourism Conference 2025 is expected to draw a diverse range of professionals, including tourism business owners, academics, elected officials, and destination management organisations, all of whom will play a key role in shaping the future of the sector.

For further information about the event and to register, please visit the event page on EventBrite.