Remember the boastful, unambiguous contents of the December 2010 National Trust mailing to numerous customers of their Castle Ward Caravan Park?
'As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating.
New site updates include the following: Improvement of shower facilities (now separate female cubicles), New laundry facilities (token operated washer and tumble dryers), New indoor hot water washroom facilities, A small onsite shop, A new wide entrance with one way system for easy access, A new drive-on drainage post for camper vans, All year opening from 1 March 2011.'
After complaints were made to the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the nice people at the National Trust Northern Ireland then sent a further mailing to customers on 19th January 2011, stating with equal clarity:
'I am writing to follow up my recent letter and to provide you with further clarification in relation to the Castle Ward Caravan Park. In my earlier letter I indicated that we had received four star rating for the Caravan Park, but I did not make clear that this is subject to completing specific works.
Due to the very inclement weather conditions during December, work on the planned upgrade to bring the facilities fully up to four star rating was unavoidably delayed. I am pleased to say, however, that construction work is now well underway and on track for our opening date of 1 March 2011. We expect to achieve our new star rating from NITB following the completion of these works.
We look forward to welcoming you back to the site again soon.'
Following on from the revelations of that second mailing, a Freedom of Information request to Department of the Environment (Northern Ireland) eventually prompted the following response from the Divisional Planning Office, Rathkeltair House, Market Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6EA: 'Planning Service is currently considering an application, received on 3 February 2011, for a proposed washing block on the site. The issue of compliance with current Building Regulations and relevant Health and Safety Regulations is a matter for Down Council to consider.'
The foregoing response from the Divisional Planning Office was dated the 7th April 2011 which in itself raises further disturbing issues, for it was back in December 2010 that the National Trust first boasted of the new facilities, and again on the 19th January 2011 when they claimed 'construction work is now well underway and on track for our opening date of 1 March 2011.
Altogether very strange statements from the charitable Northern Ireland National Trust, especially when at those points in time, not only had planning permission not been granted for their new facilities, the National Trust hadn't even bothered to make a planning application! So does this mean the National Trust then constructed the new facilities without any planning permission from Department of the Environment (Northern Ireland)?
How could the new facilities be ready for the opening of the Castle Ward caravan park on 1st March 2011 when more than a month later (7th April 2011) the Planning Service were still only considering the planning application? Furthermore, if the National Trust did indeed construct the building without legally required planning approval, is the building fit for purpose, is it a safe environment for customers, and in particular for children? Should the National Trust be asked if they have Public Liability Insurance which actually covers patrons of the Castle Ward caravan site?
Is this the same National Trust that is campaigning to stop planning permission being granted for a new golfing complex in the North West of Northern Ireland? Perhaps we should state that the developers of the proposed golfing complex have allegedly applied for planning permission, something the National Trust obviously decided they were exempt from.
Who or what does the Northern Ireland National Trust actually think they are? A hugely warped version of the Ku Klux Klan perhaps. There are members out there who have encountered an alleged culture of arrogance, incompetence, lying, evasiveness and secrecy. Secret dubious investigations are conducted, the outcome of which are also kept secret, even from those members they have implicated. Therefore we ask if the National Trust in Northern Ireland is unfit for purpose? Some people certainly believe the Northern Ireland National Trust is a corrupt organisation, so the question is, are those people correct?
Showing posts with label Northern Ireland Tourist Board. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Northern Ireland Tourist Board. Show all posts
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Wednesday, 16 February 2011
Castle Ward Caravan Park Still Claiming 4Star NITB Status
NdTNI - National disTrust of National Trust Northern Ireland Policy
Over at whatdotheyknow.com, what seems to have been a perfectly legitimate Freedom of Information request was asked of the NITB, which was why the Northern Ireland Tourist Board was condoning the serious misrepresentation actions of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park?
To be fair, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board responded by saying: 'NITB does not condone ‘serious misrepresentation actions’ by any organisation and have not condoned the issue of a letter by Castleward Caravan Park claiming they had received their four star rating.'
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board then went on to say: 'NITB’s standard procedure and protocol, in relation to any tourist accommodation claiming they have a star rating which they don’t have, is to initially instruct the premises by telephone to remove all reference to this. If appropriate, NITB will follow this up in writing giving a deadline by which this must be done. If the premises refuses to do so, NITB will issue a final written warning and liaise with its legal team to discuss legal action. As soon as NITB was made aware that Castleward Caravan Park had issued a letter referring to a grading which they did not have, we investigated this matter by contacting both the independent assessor and Castleward Caravan Park directly. Castleward Caravan Park advised us that the letter they issued was incorrect and confirmed that this should not have contained any reference to the grading which they hope to achieve later this year. In this instance, NITB has determined that no further action is required at this time. However, as mentioned previously, NITB will monitor the situation and take appropriate action when necessary.'
The National Trust have just begun advertising for a 'Caravan and Accommodations Supervisor' for Castle Ward, and online under 'DIMENSIONS OF THE ROLE' it would appear that amongst other duties, the successful applicant will be accountable for: 'Castle Ward caravan/ campsite (NITB 4 star) Castle Ward Base Camp, Castle Ward Holiday Cottages (Potters Cottage NITB 4 star, Downpatrick Gate Lodge NITB 3 star, Murlough Cottage, Murlough Gate Lodge)'
'However, as mentioned previously, NITB will monitor the situation and take appropriate action when necessary.'
Perhaps therefore, being aware of the repeated false claim of the National Trust, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board would now care to comment on this further act of blatant misrepresentaion by the National Trust or is it the case that the previous blog posting 'Why Do We Need The Northern Ireland Tourist Board When We Have The National Trust?' really does say it all? Who does need the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, certainly not the National Trust Tourist Board!
No, we are not going to raise the subject of the aforementioned Potters Cottage NITB 4 Star Rating, or the Downpatrick Gate Lodge NITB 3 Star Rating, preferring to assume, rightly or wrongly, that even the National Trust Senior Management are not that stupid.
To be fair, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board responded by saying: 'NITB does not condone ‘serious misrepresentation actions’ by any organisation and have not condoned the issue of a letter by Castleward Caravan Park claiming they had received their four star rating.'
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board then went on to say: 'NITB’s standard procedure and protocol, in relation to any tourist accommodation claiming they have a star rating which they don’t have, is to initially instruct the premises by telephone to remove all reference to this. If appropriate, NITB will follow this up in writing giving a deadline by which this must be done. If the premises refuses to do so, NITB will issue a final written warning and liaise with its legal team to discuss legal action. As soon as NITB was made aware that Castleward Caravan Park had issued a letter referring to a grading which they did not have, we investigated this matter by contacting both the independent assessor and Castleward Caravan Park directly. Castleward Caravan Park advised us that the letter they issued was incorrect and confirmed that this should not have contained any reference to the grading which they hope to achieve later this year. In this instance, NITB has determined that no further action is required at this time. However, as mentioned previously, NITB will monitor the situation and take appropriate action when necessary.'
The National Trust have just begun advertising for a 'Caravan and Accommodations Supervisor' for Castle Ward, and online under 'DIMENSIONS OF THE ROLE' it would appear that amongst other duties, the successful applicant will be accountable for: 'Castle Ward caravan/ campsite (NITB 4 star) Castle Ward Base Camp, Castle Ward Holiday Cottages (Potters Cottage NITB 4 star, Downpatrick Gate Lodge NITB 3 star, Murlough Cottage, Murlough Gate Lodge)'
'However, as mentioned previously, NITB will monitor the situation and take appropriate action when necessary.'
Perhaps therefore, being aware of the repeated false claim of the National Trust, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board would now care to comment on this further act of blatant misrepresentaion by the National Trust or is it the case that the previous blog posting 'Why Do We Need The Northern Ireland Tourist Board When We Have The National Trust?' really does say it all? Who does need the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, certainly not the National Trust Tourist Board!
No, we are not going to raise the subject of the aforementioned Potters Cottage NITB 4 Star Rating, or the Downpatrick Gate Lodge NITB 3 Star Rating, preferring to assume, rightly or wrongly, that even the National Trust Senior Management are not that stupid.
Thursday, 10 February 2011
One Mythical Giant + One Minister + One National Trust = £9.25 Million
NdTNI - National disTrust of National Trust Northern Ireland Policy
An inquisitive Northern Ireland tourist recently asked of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in a Freedom of Information request, if in light of the current rumoured allegedly serious allegations involving the Northern Ireland National Trust, whether or not, the DETI Minister Arlene Foster retained full confidence in the ability of the National Trust to carry out to it's successful conclusion the Giants Causeway project; bearing in mind of course, that £9.25 million of taxpayers money has been reportedly channelled into the aforementioned project?
Following is the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) reply to the aforementioned inquisitive tourist:
'Thank you for your e-mail of 19 January to Arlene Foster MLA, Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment regarding the National Trust and the Giant's Causeway project. The Minister has read your correspondence and has asked me to reply on her behalf.
Work is currently underway on the development of new visitor facilities at the Giants Causeway. Gilbert Ash was successful in the public tender to carry out the main construction works and work on site is progressing well. The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) is confident that the project is on schedule for completion in 2012.
The Giant's Causeway Visitor Experience (GCVE) is an exemplar of good governance. NITB as a funder for such a large scale strategic project must ensure that it is economically and financially viable offering good value for money. The implementation of the Gateway Process, perceived as best practice will assist in terms of ascertaining the project’s viability and robustness. GCVE to date has progressed successfully through stage 2 and 3 of the Gateway process. NITB is committed to the successful completion of the project and are confident that the new facilities will enhance the visitor experience along Northem lreland’s premier driving route the Causeway Coastal Route (CCR).
Regular meetings take place with National Trust through an established project board.
A recent press release stated that total project costs of £18.5m included taxpayer contribution of £9.25m. In fact the funding mix, managed by NITB, is made up of £3.125m Govemment financial assistance and £6.125m from the European Regional Development Fund under the European Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland. National Trust will provide £6.25m and the Heritage Lottery Fund awarded financial assistance of £3m. NITB and National Trust are dedicated to the project and certain that every effort is being made to ensure the successful completion of the new visitor facilities at the Giant's Causeway.'
Note that rather than declaring the National Trust retained the implicit support of DETI Minister Arlene Foster, the DETI Spin Doctors decided instead to spin a web of utter meaningless drivel, so nothing has changed at the DETI either.
The question; does the DETI Minister Arlene Foster retain full confidence in the National Trust Northern Ireland, has not actually been answered, so what should be read into this omission?
Maybe rightly or wrongly, reading between the lines, it could be assumed the DETI Spin Doctors are actually stating Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) Minister Arlene Foster of the DUP, does not wish to be implicated in anything untoward allegedly rumoured to be involving the National Trust, and that she personally does not Trust the National Trust either!
Perhaps we should now invite the Minister to Join The Club!
NdTNI Northern Ireland Tourists National disTrust National Trust Northern Ireland!
An inquisitive Northern Ireland tourist recently asked of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in a Freedom of Information request, if in light of the current rumoured allegedly serious allegations involving the Northern Ireland National Trust, whether or not, the DETI Minister Arlene Foster retained full confidence in the ability of the National Trust to carry out to it's successful conclusion the Giants Causeway project; bearing in mind of course, that £9.25 million of taxpayers money has been reportedly channelled into the aforementioned project?
Following is the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) reply to the aforementioned inquisitive tourist:
'Thank you for your e-mail of 19 January to Arlene Foster MLA, Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment regarding the National Trust and the Giant's Causeway project. The Minister has read your correspondence and has asked me to reply on her behalf.
Work is currently underway on the development of new visitor facilities at the Giants Causeway. Gilbert Ash was successful in the public tender to carry out the main construction works and work on site is progressing well. The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) is confident that the project is on schedule for completion in 2012.
The Giant's Causeway Visitor Experience (GCVE) is an exemplar of good governance. NITB as a funder for such a large scale strategic project must ensure that it is economically and financially viable offering good value for money. The implementation of the Gateway Process, perceived as best practice will assist in terms of ascertaining the project’s viability and robustness. GCVE to date has progressed successfully through stage 2 and 3 of the Gateway process. NITB is committed to the successful completion of the project and are confident that the new facilities will enhance the visitor experience along Northem lreland’s premier driving route the Causeway Coastal Route (CCR).
Regular meetings take place with National Trust through an established project board.
A recent press release stated that total project costs of £18.5m included taxpayer contribution of £9.25m. In fact the funding mix, managed by NITB, is made up of £3.125m Govemment financial assistance and £6.125m from the European Regional Development Fund under the European Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland. National Trust will provide £6.25m and the Heritage Lottery Fund awarded financial assistance of £3m. NITB and National Trust are dedicated to the project and certain that every effort is being made to ensure the successful completion of the new visitor facilities at the Giant's Causeway.'
Note that rather than declaring the National Trust retained the implicit support of DETI Minister Arlene Foster, the DETI Spin Doctors decided instead to spin a web of utter meaningless drivel, so nothing has changed at the DETI either.
The question; does the DETI Minister Arlene Foster retain full confidence in the National Trust Northern Ireland, has not actually been answered, so what should be read into this omission?
Maybe rightly or wrongly, reading between the lines, it could be assumed the DETI Spin Doctors are actually stating Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) Minister Arlene Foster of the DUP, does not wish to be implicated in anything untoward allegedly rumoured to be involving the National Trust, and that she personally does not Trust the National Trust either!
Perhaps we should now invite the Minister to Join The Club!
NdTNI Northern Ireland Tourists National disTrust National Trust Northern Ireland!
Wednesday, 9 February 2011
National Trust Professional Construction Company?
NdTNI - National disTrust of National Trust Northern Ireland Policy
Stupid question, but does any of the two photographs taken in January showing construction of new facilities at the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park inspire confidence in even the most optimistic person?
Do these images represent the work of dilligent professional building contractors who know what they're doing, or the work of amateur volunteers who know not what they do? Gilbert-Ash N.I. Ltd the construction company awarded the contract to build a new visitors' centre at the North Coast Quarry Attraction presumably decided the Castle Ward Caravan Park new site updates were out of their league, therefore was rumoured to have refrained from tendering for the huge contract. When 'completed' will this new 'construction' pass an Inspection by Health and Safety Officials, and officials from Downpatrick Regional Planning Office? Would you as a responsible caring parent permit your child to enter the 'completed' construction?
Remember the December 2010 communication from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park proudly proclaiming how delighted they were to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating, which turned out to be something other than the truth, how unusual for the National Trust! Remember also the new site updates as mentioned in the same communication of December 2010?
Should the National Trust receive a 4 Star Rating from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the honest hard working experienced owners of safe, immaculate, honestly operated, genuine 2 Star, and 4 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Approved Caravan Parks throughout Northern Ireland will be asking serious searching questions of the NITB, and expecting truthful answers regarding the validity of the now meaningless NITB Grading Scheme.
Stupid question, but does any of the two photographs taken in January showing construction of new facilities at the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park inspire confidence in even the most optimistic person?
Do these images represent the work of dilligent professional building contractors who know what they're doing, or the work of amateur volunteers who know not what they do? Gilbert-Ash N.I. Ltd the construction company awarded the contract to build a new visitors' centre at the North Coast Quarry Attraction presumably decided the Castle Ward Caravan Park new site updates were out of their league, therefore was rumoured to have refrained from tendering for the huge contract. When 'completed' will this new 'construction' pass an Inspection by Health and Safety Officials, and officials from Downpatrick Regional Planning Office? Would you as a responsible caring parent permit your child to enter the 'completed' construction?Remember the December 2010 communication from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park proudly proclaiming how delighted they were to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating, which turned out to be something other than the truth, how unusual for the National Trust! Remember also the new site updates as mentioned in the same communication of December 2010?Should the National Trust receive a 4 Star Rating from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the honest hard working experienced owners of safe, immaculate, honestly operated, genuine 2 Star, and 4 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Approved Caravan Parks throughout Northern Ireland will be asking serious searching questions of the NITB, and expecting truthful answers regarding the validity of the now meaningless NITB Grading Scheme.
Tuesday, 8 February 2011
2 Star or NOT 2 Star? NOT CastleWard Caravan Park
NdTNI - National disTrust of National Trust Northern Ireland Policy
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board has confirmed the Castle Ward Caravan Park as owned and operated by the National Trust, does NOT have the 4 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Rating that the National Trust proclaimed they were so delighted to have received back in December 2010.
Since then the Northern Ireland Tourist Board has also confirmed that the aforementioned National Trust owned and operated Castle Ward Caravan Park did NOT have a 2 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Rating either, NOT for many years, since 2004 to be more precise. This despite the fact the National Trust has been proudly displaying their Northern Ireland Tourist Board 2 Star Rating at the offending Castle Ward Caravan Park as the two photographs taken in January 2011, clearly show.
Whether in the eyes of the law this is blatant fraud or not remains to be seen, many tourists though rightly allegedly believe they were at best misled by the National Trust for the sole purpose of financial gain, since 2004. Last year the 60% increase in fees was allegedly to bring the prices in line with other comparable sites in the area. Where are these other UNGRADED, UNRATED comparable sites in the area?
And what about the part played by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board in this nasty little plot to allegedly deceive tourists? The NITB are fully aware of the fact unsuspecting innocent tourists are now alleging fraud, that they were conned into believing the CastleWard Caravan Park had been 2 Star Graded by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board when it hadn't for many years, and furthermore they were then led to believe the CastleWard Caravan Park had received a 4 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Grading for 2011.
Should the Northern Ireland Tourist Board now fully explain the reasons that has led them to be satisfied with this despicable treatment of TOURISTS by the National Trust in Northern Ireland? Yes!
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now receive a full unreserved public apology from the National Trust? Yes!
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now have their fees returned, and receive financial compensation from the National Trust? Yes!
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board has confirmed the Castle Ward Caravan Park as owned and operated by the National Trust, does NOT have the 4 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Rating that the National Trust proclaimed they were so delighted to have received back in December 2010.
Since then the Northern Ireland Tourist Board has also confirmed that the aforementioned National Trust owned and operated Castle Ward Caravan Park did NOT have a 2 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Rating either, NOT for many years, since 2004 to be more precise. This despite the fact the National Trust has been proudly displaying their Northern Ireland Tourist Board 2 Star Rating at the offending Castle Ward Caravan Park as the two photographs taken in January 2011, clearly show.Whether in the eyes of the law this is blatant fraud or not remains to be seen, many tourists though rightly allegedly believe they were at best misled by the National Trust for the sole purpose of financial gain, since 2004. Last year the 60% increase in fees was allegedly to bring the prices in line with other comparable sites in the area. Where are these other UNGRADED, UNRATED comparable sites in the area?
And what about the part played by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board in this nasty little plot to allegedly deceive tourists? The NITB are fully aware of the fact unsuspecting innocent tourists are now alleging fraud, that they were conned into believing the CastleWard Caravan Park had been 2 Star Graded by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board when it hadn't for many years, and furthermore they were then led to believe the CastleWard Caravan Park had received a 4 Star Northern Ireland Tourist Board Grading for 2011.
Should the Northern Ireland Tourist Board now fully explain the reasons that has led them to be satisfied with this despicable treatment of TOURISTS by the National Trust in Northern Ireland? Yes!
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now receive a full unreserved public apology from the National Trust? Yes!
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now have their fees returned, and receive financial compensation from the National Trust? Yes!
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Why Do We Need The Northern Ireland Tourist Board When We Have The National Trust?
Northern Ireland Tourists disTrust National disTrust
Over at what do they know . com an obviously already irate tourist now seems to have taken umbrage with the response he received to a Freedom of Information request. In light of the ongoing saga of the National Trust having claimed they had received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4Star Rating for their CastleWard Caravan Park which turned out to have been totally untrue, a more than valid question was asked of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board by the aforementioned irate tourist.
What action had asked the irate tourist, would the Northern Ireland Tourist Board be taking against the National Trust for falsely claiming they had received a 4Star NITB grading when they clearly had not, and the existence of an alleged 2Star NITB Rating had also been questioned. In reply the NITB stated the Manager of the CastleWard Caravan Park, had been spoken to, and he had confirmed that the email they issued should not have included any reference to a star rating and that they would not be issuing any documentation or promoting a star rating until an inspection has taken place and an official notification of a star rating has been given.
Not exactly what the National Trust clarification email/letter from of 19th January 2011 said with lashings of ambiguity, and what about the new site updates that hadn't materialised either?
Nonetheless the Northern Ireland Tourist Board say they are now satisfied that this matter has now been resolved, which is all very well, but are any of the many irate tourists satisfied, many of whom feel they have been conned by the National Trust? No, they most certainly are not in the least satisfied with the stance taken by the allegedly toothless feeble Northern Ireland Tourist Board, but then again, what exactly can the NITB actually do about the allegedly all powerful National Trust?
Very soon, some suspect the National Trust will achieve what they've been allegedly rumoured to be allegedly vying for, the demise of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, after all, who needs the NITB when the National Trust is allegedly rumoured to be allegedly promoting itself as the alternative. A relaxing walk through our pleasant countryside would, it might be alleged, very soon be affordable only by those rich enough to pay the exorbitant 'air that I breathe' fees as would allegedly be imposed by the new regime. Not such an exaggeration some might say, for haven't they already allegedly taken over a sizeable portion of the Province, so what or who will stop them from capturing the remaining few acres, and the air that we breathe?
In their response to the aforementioned Freedom of Information request the Northern Ireland Tourist Board more than once refers to the offending Castle Ward Caravan Park as 'premises' which leads us the website of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board where it states: 'Under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992, all 'premises' in Northern Ireland offering tourist accommodation must be certified by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB).'
The NITB furthermore declares: 'NITB aims to provide advice and guidance to encourage world class visitor servicing in the tourism industry. This includes delivering a level of service which meets and exceeds the expectations of all visitors. This also involves the provision of excellent information and facilities.'
Fine noble words from an organisation allegedly losing the battle for supremacy of the Northern Ireland Tourism Policy, and does the provision of excellent information and facilities translate into the National Trust being given carte blanche to falsely claim during December 2010: 'As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating. New site updates include the following: Improvement of shower facilities (now separate female cubicles), New laundry facilities (token operated washer and tumble dryers), New indoor hot water washroom facilities, A small onsite shop. A new wide entrance with one way system for easy access, A new drive-on drainage post for camper vans’
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board, is an organisation that surely has, if not a legal duty to protect unsuspecting innocent tourists from alleged shysters, from wherever they might appear, most certainly they should have an alleged moral duty to do so, though before passing judgement it would most likely be prudent to establish if in fact they had any morals.
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board Rating Scheme has been shown to be nothing more than a meaningless worthless charade not to be trusted by any right thinking tourist. Can we ever again Trust the Northern Ireland Tourist Board?
Over at what do they know . com an obviously already irate tourist now seems to have taken umbrage with the response he received to a Freedom of Information request. In light of the ongoing saga of the National Trust having claimed they had received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4Star Rating for their CastleWard Caravan Park which turned out to have been totally untrue, a more than valid question was asked of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board by the aforementioned irate tourist.
What action had asked the irate tourist, would the Northern Ireland Tourist Board be taking against the National Trust for falsely claiming they had received a 4Star NITB grading when they clearly had not, and the existence of an alleged 2Star NITB Rating had also been questioned. In reply the NITB stated the Manager of the CastleWard Caravan Park, had been spoken to, and he had confirmed that the email they issued should not have included any reference to a star rating and that they would not be issuing any documentation or promoting a star rating until an inspection has taken place and an official notification of a star rating has been given.
Not exactly what the National Trust clarification email/letter from of 19th January 2011 said with lashings of ambiguity, and what about the new site updates that hadn't materialised either?
Nonetheless the Northern Ireland Tourist Board say they are now satisfied that this matter has now been resolved, which is all very well, but are any of the many irate tourists satisfied, many of whom feel they have been conned by the National Trust? No, they most certainly are not in the least satisfied with the stance taken by the allegedly toothless feeble Northern Ireland Tourist Board, but then again, what exactly can the NITB actually do about the allegedly all powerful National Trust?
Very soon, some suspect the National Trust will achieve what they've been allegedly rumoured to be allegedly vying for, the demise of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, after all, who needs the NITB when the National Trust is allegedly rumoured to be allegedly promoting itself as the alternative. A relaxing walk through our pleasant countryside would, it might be alleged, very soon be affordable only by those rich enough to pay the exorbitant 'air that I breathe' fees as would allegedly be imposed by the new regime. Not such an exaggeration some might say, for haven't they already allegedly taken over a sizeable portion of the Province, so what or who will stop them from capturing the remaining few acres, and the air that we breathe?
In their response to the aforementioned Freedom of Information request the Northern Ireland Tourist Board more than once refers to the offending Castle Ward Caravan Park as 'premises' which leads us the website of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board where it states: 'Under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992, all 'premises' in Northern Ireland offering tourist accommodation must be certified by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB).'
The NITB furthermore declares: 'NITB aims to provide advice and guidance to encourage world class visitor servicing in the tourism industry. This includes delivering a level of service which meets and exceeds the expectations of all visitors. This also involves the provision of excellent information and facilities.'
Fine noble words from an organisation allegedly losing the battle for supremacy of the Northern Ireland Tourism Policy, and does the provision of excellent information and facilities translate into the National Trust being given carte blanche to falsely claim during December 2010: 'As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating. New site updates include the following: Improvement of shower facilities (now separate female cubicles), New laundry facilities (token operated washer and tumble dryers), New indoor hot water washroom facilities, A small onsite shop. A new wide entrance with one way system for easy access, A new drive-on drainage post for camper vans’
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board, is an organisation that surely has, if not a legal duty to protect unsuspecting innocent tourists from alleged shysters, from wherever they might appear, most certainly they should have an alleged moral duty to do so, though before passing judgement it would most likely be prudent to establish if in fact they had any morals.
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board Rating Scheme has been shown to be nothing more than a meaningless worthless charade not to be trusted by any right thinking tourist. Can we ever again Trust the Northern Ireland Tourist Board?
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park 4Star Clarification
Northern Ireland Tourists disTrust National disTrust
Remember receiving the December 2010 correspondence from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park which unambiguously proclaimed: 'As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating'
Despite what can only be described as ambiguous clarification from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park in late January 2011, here is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth about that Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4Star Rating. The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park does NOT have nor will it have a 4Star NITB Rating or any other NITB Rating when the aforementioned National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park opens for the 2011 camping and caravan season, a fact that has been confirmed with clarity by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
Therefore ladies, gentlemen, boys and girls, sit back; relax whilst a tale of woe is told. The Northern Ireland Tourist Board has most kindly confirmed with some authority the following. The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park has not been a member of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board grading scheme for many years, therefore the aforementioned National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Strangford, has for many years, including 2010, been an ungraded, unrated camping and caravan park, except perhaps in the minds of those much superior beings looking down upon the 'peasants' of the land.
The Inspector for the Northern Ireland Tourist Board grading scheme, visited the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park on 13th October 2010 and discussed improvement proposals to the facilities. The Inspector explained to the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park that NO assessment of the new facilities would be conducted until the work was complete.
The Inspector received an application by email from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park on 3rd January 2011 and an invoice for payment has subsequently been issued. (The payment of invoices, cheques winging their way across the celestial sphere; are topics to be revisited on another day.) Take note dear friends of the date the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park applied by email to the NITB with a view to joining the scheme. The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park informed campers and caravan owners during December 2010 that they had received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating, but now it has been revealed they had at that time not even applied to be considered for an NITB Rating
No inspection will be carried out until after the proposed improvements have been completed and the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park has reopened for the new 2011 camping and caravan season. Until that inspection is carried out and the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park is deemed to meet the required standards as set out in the star grading scheme - the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park will NOT have an NITB Star rating of any numerical figure higher than ZERO.
A full copy of the required standards is available to view here on the NITB website.
Therefore, if under the illusion you would be staying at a 4Star Camping and Caravan Park, you have made a booking for the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park, and paid in full as is required, the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth is, until such times as the NITB says otherwise, you will be staying at an UNRATED, UNGRADED by the NITB, National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park which is exactly what it has been for many years.
Very obviously, any rumoured allegations of whether or not the National Trust are guilty of fraud, or attempted fraud will be for others to investigate and decide, the rest of us will have to make our own judgement, but first there will be further revelations to consider.
Remember receiving the December 2010 correspondence from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park which unambiguously proclaimed: 'As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating'
Despite what can only be described as ambiguous clarification from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park in late January 2011, here is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth about that Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4Star Rating. The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park does NOT have nor will it have a 4Star NITB Rating or any other NITB Rating when the aforementioned National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park opens for the 2011 camping and caravan season, a fact that has been confirmed with clarity by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
Therefore ladies, gentlemen, boys and girls, sit back; relax whilst a tale of woe is told. The Northern Ireland Tourist Board has most kindly confirmed with some authority the following. The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park has not been a member of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board grading scheme for many years, therefore the aforementioned National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Strangford, has for many years, including 2010, been an ungraded, unrated camping and caravan park, except perhaps in the minds of those much superior beings looking down upon the 'peasants' of the land.
The Inspector for the Northern Ireland Tourist Board grading scheme, visited the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park on 13th October 2010 and discussed improvement proposals to the facilities. The Inspector explained to the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park that NO assessment of the new facilities would be conducted until the work was complete.
The Inspector received an application by email from the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park on 3rd January 2011 and an invoice for payment has subsequently been issued. (The payment of invoices, cheques winging their way across the celestial sphere; are topics to be revisited on another day.) Take note dear friends of the date the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park applied by email to the NITB with a view to joining the scheme. The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park informed campers and caravan owners during December 2010 that they had received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating, but now it has been revealed they had at that time not even applied to be considered for an NITB Rating
No inspection will be carried out until after the proposed improvements have been completed and the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park has reopened for the new 2011 camping and caravan season. Until that inspection is carried out and the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park is deemed to meet the required standards as set out in the star grading scheme - the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park will NOT have an NITB Star rating of any numerical figure higher than ZERO.
A full copy of the required standards is available to view here on the NITB website.
Therefore, if under the illusion you would be staying at a 4Star Camping and Caravan Park, you have made a booking for the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park, and paid in full as is required, the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth is, until such times as the NITB says otherwise, you will be staying at an UNRATED, UNGRADED by the NITB, National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park which is exactly what it has been for many years.
Very obviously, any rumoured allegations of whether or not the National Trust are guilty of fraud, or attempted fraud will be for others to investigate and decide, the rest of us will have to make our own judgement, but first there will be further revelations to consider.
Sunday, 30 January 2011
National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park Planning Application Query
Northern Ireland Tourists disTrust of National disTrust
In the midst of the same correspondence circulated by the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park to Campers and Caravan Owners during December 2010 in which the National Trust Northern Ireland proclaimed with clarity: 'As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating' the following was also proclaimed with equal clarity: ‘New site updates include the following: ‘Improvement of shower facilities (now separate female cubicles), New laundry facilities (token operated washer and tumble dryers), New indoor hot water washroom facilities, A small onsite shop. A new wide entrance with one way system for easy access, A new drive-on drainage post for camper vans’
Following the shocking revelations that the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park had not in fact received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating as falsely claimed, further enquiries have since revealed the new site updates did not exist either, which has led to further questions being asked, and the first obvious question is simple: Why is the Northern Ireland National Trust allegedly deceiving members and customers alike with these alleged outrageously arrogant false claims?
As has already been eloquently stated elsewhere, considering the non-existent new as claimed in December 2010 constructions are to be eventually used by members of the paying public, including children, and the news that following complaints last year Health and Safety officials found it necessary to visit the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park, presumably it would therefore be in the interest of all concerned that any new constructions at the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park have been inspected and deemed to have been built in accordance with, and fully comply with, all current Building Regulations, and of course all current relevant Health and Safety Regulations. Therefore the following two highlighted links might prove to be interesting, and many thanks to he who rightly thought to ask the questions.
National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park planning application query. Down District Council was asked to clarify whether or not the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park applied for and was granted planning permission for the new onsite buildings which according to a letter sent to camping and caravan owners in December 2010 were at that time already completed?
National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park planning application. The Department of the Environment (Northern Ireland), has been asked if Downpatrick Regional Planning Office can clarify whether or not the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park @ Castle Ward Estate, Strangford, County Down, BT30 7LS applied for and was granted planning permission for the new onsite buildings which according to a letter sent to caravan owners in December 2010 were at that time already completed?
Thus far there has been no reply from either the Department of the Environment (Northern Ireland), or the Downpatrick Regional Planning Office, so we have to ask if charities and caravan parks are somehow exempt from complying with Northern Ireland current planning legislation?
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now receive a full unreserved public apology from the National Trust? Yes!
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now receive financial compensation from the National Trust? Yes!
In the midst of the same correspondence circulated by the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park to Campers and Caravan Owners during December 2010 in which the National Trust Northern Ireland proclaimed with clarity: 'As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating' the following was also proclaimed with equal clarity: ‘New site updates include the following: ‘Improvement of shower facilities (now separate female cubicles), New laundry facilities (token operated washer and tumble dryers), New indoor hot water washroom facilities, A small onsite shop. A new wide entrance with one way system for easy access, A new drive-on drainage post for camper vans’
Following the shocking revelations that the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park had not in fact received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating as falsely claimed, further enquiries have since revealed the new site updates did not exist either, which has led to further questions being asked, and the first obvious question is simple: Why is the Northern Ireland National Trust allegedly deceiving members and customers alike with these alleged outrageously arrogant false claims?
As has already been eloquently stated elsewhere, considering the non-existent new as claimed in December 2010 constructions are to be eventually used by members of the paying public, including children, and the news that following complaints last year Health and Safety officials found it necessary to visit the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park, presumably it would therefore be in the interest of all concerned that any new constructions at the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park have been inspected and deemed to have been built in accordance with, and fully comply with, all current Building Regulations, and of course all current relevant Health and Safety Regulations. Therefore the following two highlighted links might prove to be interesting, and many thanks to he who rightly thought to ask the questions.
National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park planning application query. Down District Council was asked to clarify whether or not the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park applied for and was granted planning permission for the new onsite buildings which according to a letter sent to camping and caravan owners in December 2010 were at that time already completed?
National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park planning application. The Department of the Environment (Northern Ireland), has been asked if Downpatrick Regional Planning Office can clarify whether or not the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park @ Castle Ward Estate, Strangford, County Down, BT30 7LS applied for and was granted planning permission for the new onsite buildings which according to a letter sent to caravan owners in December 2010 were at that time already completed?
Thus far there has been no reply from either the Department of the Environment (Northern Ireland), or the Downpatrick Regional Planning Office, so we have to ask if charities and caravan parks are somehow exempt from complying with Northern Ireland current planning legislation?
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now receive a full unreserved public apology from the National Trust? Yes!
Should campers and caravan owners who have been paying customers of the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park now receive financial compensation from the National Trust? Yes!
Friday, 28 January 2011
The National Trust Version of the Truth of the Lies
NdTNI - Northern Ireland Tourists disTrust National disTrust
'The Truth of the Lie' is a book by Gonçalo Amaral based on the criminal investigation into the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, an innocent little girl allegedly abandoned for the night, then allegedly abducted, or depending on which version of events you want to believe, allegedly murdered.
According to mail circulated in December 2010 to caravan owning National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park customers, the National Trust proudly proclaimed with clarity: As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating.'
And as if that wasn't enough to whet the appetite and have you rushing to make your bookings for the year, they further impressively claimed: 'New site updates include the following: Improvement of shower facilities (now separate female cubicles), New laundry facilities (token operated washer and tumble dryers), New indoor hot water washroom facilities, A small onsite shop, A new wide entrance with one way system for easy access, A new drive-on drainage post for camper vans, All year opening from 1 March 2011.' Haven't they been busy beavers since the end of October 2010?
Then came the questions from already disillusioned doubting National Trust Members, and former customers. When was Castle Ward caravan park awarded 4 Star Rating? asked one member of the public, and the official answer to the impertinent question? The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park had NOT been awarded any Rating by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board as claimed by the National Trust.
Also revealed was the fact the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park had NOT been Rated at all by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board for many years, so why was the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park allegedly masquerading as a 2 Star caravan park prior to 2011, and how then do they justify the 60% site fee increase of January 2010?
Under the heading: Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the National Trust and our £9.25 Million, more questions were asked of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, questions which thus far remain unanswered.
Having accepted bookings, and payments, (another increase in site fees making it approx 90% within 12 months) and having then been informed they'd been rumbled, the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park in a further mailing to customers on 19th January 2011, ambiguously proclaimed: 'I am writing to follow up my recent letter and to provide you with further clarification in relation to the Castle Caravan. In my earlier letter I indicated that we had received four star rating for the Caravan, but I did not make clear that this is subject to completing specific works.
Due to the very inclement weather conditions during December, work on the planned upgrade to bring the facilities fully up to four star rating was unavoidably delayed. I am pleased to say, however, that construction work is now well underway and on track for our opening date of 1 March 2011. We expect to achieve our new 4star rating from NITB following the completion of these works.
We look forward to welcoming you back to the site again soon.'
The truth regarding the alleged lie of the foregoing statement is thus, the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park will NOT have been graded or awarded a 4 Star Rating by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board when the Caravan Park opens on the 1st March 2011, nor will it have been graded or awarded a 2 Star Rating by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
Sceptics would probably allege misrepresentation with intent to deceive for financial gain, but why would a charity such as the National Trust attempt to allegedly deceive the public of Northern Ireland? Perhaps the rumours of the National Trust in Northern Ireland annually incurring huge financial losses, are not rumours after all.
Seem to remember reading someplace that it is better to ultimately succeed with the truth than to temporarily succeed with a lie, although personal dealings with Senior Management personnel of the National disTrust would thus far indicate the opposite appears to be their policy
'The Truth of the Lie' is a book by Gonçalo Amaral based on the criminal investigation into the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, an innocent little girl allegedly abandoned for the night, then allegedly abducted, or depending on which version of events you want to believe, allegedly murdered.
According to mail circulated in December 2010 to caravan owning National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park customers, the National Trust proudly proclaimed with clarity: As a result of a number of site updates Castle Ward is delighted to have received a Northern Ireland Tourist Board 4 Star Caravan Park Rating.'
And as if that wasn't enough to whet the appetite and have you rushing to make your bookings for the year, they further impressively claimed: 'New site updates include the following: Improvement of shower facilities (now separate female cubicles), New laundry facilities (token operated washer and tumble dryers), New indoor hot water washroom facilities, A small onsite shop, A new wide entrance with one way system for easy access, A new drive-on drainage post for camper vans, All year opening from 1 March 2011.' Haven't they been busy beavers since the end of October 2010?
Then came the questions from already disillusioned doubting National Trust Members, and former customers. When was Castle Ward caravan park awarded 4 Star Rating? asked one member of the public, and the official answer to the impertinent question? The National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park had NOT been awarded any Rating by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board as claimed by the National Trust.
Also revealed was the fact the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park had NOT been Rated at all by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board for many years, so why was the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park allegedly masquerading as a 2 Star caravan park prior to 2011, and how then do they justify the 60% site fee increase of January 2010?
Under the heading: Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the National Trust and our £9.25 Million, more questions were asked of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, questions which thus far remain unanswered.
Having accepted bookings, and payments, (another increase in site fees making it approx 90% within 12 months) and having then been informed they'd been rumbled, the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park in a further mailing to customers on 19th January 2011, ambiguously proclaimed: 'I am writing to follow up my recent letter and to provide you with further clarification in relation to the Castle Caravan. In my earlier letter I indicated that we had received four star rating for the Caravan, but I did not make clear that this is subject to completing specific works.
Due to the very inclement weather conditions during December, work on the planned upgrade to bring the facilities fully up to four star rating was unavoidably delayed. I am pleased to say, however, that construction work is now well underway and on track for our opening date of 1 March 2011. We expect to achieve our new 4star rating from NITB following the completion of these works.
We look forward to welcoming you back to the site again soon.'
The truth regarding the alleged lie of the foregoing statement is thus, the National Trust Castle Ward Caravan Park will NOT have been graded or awarded a 4 Star Rating by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board when the Caravan Park opens on the 1st March 2011, nor will it have been graded or awarded a 2 Star Rating by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
Sceptics would probably allege misrepresentation with intent to deceive for financial gain, but why would a charity such as the National Trust attempt to allegedly deceive the public of Northern Ireland? Perhaps the rumours of the National Trust in Northern Ireland annually incurring huge financial losses, are not rumours after all.
Seem to remember reading someplace that it is better to ultimately succeed with the truth than to temporarily succeed with a lie, although personal dealings with Senior Management personnel of the National disTrust would thus far indicate the opposite appears to be their policy
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