Skip the NI Direct Bar
Skip navigation

Foster visits the Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has visited the Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall in Londonderry to hear about plans for the development of a heritage centre.
~ Friday, 13 January 2012

The Minister spoke to members of the Apprentice Boys in Londonderry and the City Council about their ideas to build an extension to the existing Memorial Hall. The extension will house the heritage centre and museum which will tell the story of the Siege of Derry, history of the Apprentice Boys and related local culture and history.

During the visit the Minister met the newly appointed Project Development Manager, James McIlvar, who will work with the Apprentice Boys to secure funding and move the project to construction phase. The post of Development Manager has been facilitated by the Strategic Investment Board (SIB).

Following the meeting Arlene Foster said: "I was very interested to hear of plans to develop this historic property and I commend the Apprentice Boys in Londonderry for their vision, determination and dedication to the project.

“There is much that sets Londonderry apart from other cities here. It boasts the Walled City, one of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s key Signature Projects, which seeks to boost tourism potential by providing a unique and inspirational visitor experience.

“I am keen to encourage everyone to embrace the opportunities which the events of 2012 and 2013 present for Northern Ireland and to consider what they can do to encourage tourism in their own areas to make Northern Ireland a must-see destination.”

Arlene Foster concluded: “With plans gathering pace for the UK City of Culture in 2013, along with other momentous events happening in 2012, such as the Titanic Centenary and the opening of the new Causeway Visitor Centre, we are now entering an unprecedented time of opportunity for tourism in Northern Ireland.”

Notes to editors:

  1. For press enquiries please contact DETI Press Office on tel: 028 9052 9604. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.