To ask the Minister for the Economy to provide an update on preparations for The 153rd Open in Portrush.

Preparations for The 153rd Open have been ongoing for almost two years, supported by a number of multi-agency stakeholder groups. The build at Royal Portrush began in mid-March and is well underway, with main structures such as grandstands and the iconic leaderboards already in place. A considerable number of contractors and staff have been here for some time, staying and spending locally. The championship has generated over 3,000 local recruitment opportunities across functions including infrastructure, food and beverage and many more.

Where practicable, the R&A and its suppliers use local suppliers with 80-85% of food and beverages sourced locally. Events of this scale boost the wider local economy and have a long-term effect beyond the event week.

The R&A, in collaboration with Tourism NI and the local council, are delivering a comprehensive local community and business engagement programme as part of the preparations. Since February 2025 this has included community and business drop-in sessions in Portrush. These will continue up to and after the championship. The programme also contains online information including an industry toolkit, and in person industry events aimed at supporting businesses to make the most of The Open coming to the North.