Titanic quater reflects Belfast's new confidence - Ritchie

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has attended a gala dinner at Union Station in Washington, hosted by Titanic Quarter.

Speaking after the event, she commented: “Belfast is in the midst of an amazing urban renewal. We have clear evidence of the peace dividend across the city centre – with normalisation, job creation and business growth fuelling a virtuous circle.

“This confidence is reflected in Titanic Quarter’s ambitious plans, and I was pleased to see so many people at this evening’s event to hear more about them. The redevelopment of some 185 acres at the old Harland and Wolff shipyard is a symbol of Belfast’s transformation from its industrial past to a vibrant, modern future. This progress is reinforced by developments such as Victoria Square and my Department’s investment in improving the city centre’s key streets. The renewed Lower Chichester Street will soon re-open, further opening up the city to the Lagan area.”

The Minister also visited the Titanic Exhibition being held by National Museums for Northern Ireland at the Station. She said: “I have been very impressed by the exhibition. It provides a unique insight into Belfast’s Titanic heritage and I’m confident it will inspire visitors to rethink their perceptions of Northern Ireland.

“My Department also has its own special link to the Titanic story – having rescued the SS Nomadic which ferried passengers to the ship. The commitment and effort of the Nomadic Charitable Trust in working to restore the ship is evidence of the absolute enthusiasm that exists for Titanic’s legacy –in Northern Ireland, America and around the world.”

NOTES FOR EDITORS:

1. The “Titanic Built in Belfast” Exhibition and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival are taking place in Washington DC this summer. The Festival features a range of events over four months highlighting Northern Ireland’s cultural, business and tourism opportunities and will be attended by around one million visitors. Over 80,000 people a day will go through Union Station and will have the opportunity to see the “Titanic Built in Belfast” exhibition.
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