Enniskillen Funding Ahead Of G8

Enniskillen will be very much 'open for business' during this year's G8 summit, following the allocation of additional funding of £233,000 to revamp the town centre.

This was the message from the Department of Social Development, as security measures begin in the Fermanagh town to ensure the summit passes without incident.

The G8 is a meeting of some of the world's most powerful and wealthy nations, as leaders from the UK, Germany, Japan and the US convene to discuss global issues.

The meetings often spark protest from anti-capitalist and left wing campaign groups, who protest what they see as the uneven distribution of wealth and power across the world.

But the message from Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland is one of investment and the economic benefits of holding the G8 in Northern Ireland.

The allocated funding will be used for a painting and signage scheme, as well as retailer training.

The grant has been made to Fermanagh District Council, who will appoint a Creative Management Team to prepare a design guide and manage the delivery of the project.

Minister McCausland said: "In these difficult trading times it is essential that town centres appear as attractive and welcoming as possible. In June, the eyes of the world will be on Enniskillen and this project will strengthen the physical retail core of the town by improving its appearance.

"In addition, the training package for retailers will develop and enhance their marketing and promotion skills, thus making Enniskillen town centre more appealing to customers and visitors."

Also in attendance at the announcement, Tourism Minister Arlene Foster added: "The Northern Ireland Tourist Board is helping to ensure that everyone coming to the region for the G8 receives a warm Northern Ireland welcome.

"We are working closely with Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism, Fermanagh District Council and other G8 partners to develop opportunities to ensure that visitors not only get an authentic taste of Northern Ireland during their stay, but that they are also encouraged to stay for longer.

"Together with South West College, NITB is also working to provide training for the hospitality, tourism and retail sectors to ensure we have the skills to make the most of this unprecedented opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland on a local, national and international stage."

Fermanagh District Council Chairman, Thomas O’Reilly said: "Fermanagh District Council is delighted to have received funding towards the revitalisation of Enniskillen. This initiative will address the poor physical and unattractive appearance of properties through the provision of funding to improve building facades and make Enniskillen a more attractive town for not only Fermanagh residents but for those visitors who will come to shop and do business in this unique town."

(IT/CD)