Diane Dodds welcomed the first stage of recovery of the hospitality industry as caravan parks re-opened their doors today.
The Executive had announced that caravan parks, camping sites and self-catering tourist accommodation could re-open from today (June 26) with hotels and other tourist accommodation able to re-open from July 3.
Meanwhile, restaurants, cafés and coffee shops can also reopen from next week if the rate of spread of Coronavirus remains low.
The Economy Minister said: “Today is good news for our tourism and hospitality sector.
"The official re-opening of caravan parks, camping sites and self-catering tourist accommodation is the first step on the road to recovery for the industry.
"I also hope it marks the beginning of returning to normality where we can all begin to enjoy again the excellent products which our tourism and hospitality sector has to offer.
"I know the industry has been working hard towards this date, introducing new Covid-19 safety measures including hand sanitising stations, social distancing markers and Perspex screens in reception areas.
"The application of social distancing and hygiene practices are vital. We must ensure the transmission of the virus is minimised and we need to reassure customers, employees and visitors our tourism and hospitality establishments are as Covid-19 safe as possible."
