Robinson & McGuinness congratulate Derry/Londonderry

First Minister Rt Hon Peter Robinson, MLA, and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, MP, MLA, have congratulated Derry/Londonderry on their successful City of Culture bid.

Speaking from Liverpool where he was part of the bid team Mr McGuinness said: "This is fantastic news for the city and the entire region and I am immensely proud of what has been achieved. It represents a fitting reward for the huge amount of work that has been undertaken by all associated with the bid.

"Being here in Liverpool has enabled us all to see first hand the massive boost that their victory in the European city of culture has brought. The task that now lies before us is to ensure that tonight's announcement will provide a similar catalyst for my home town to avail of the potentially massive benefits culturally, economically and socially for all our people.

"It is an opportunity that Derry and its people will seize with both hands and I am especially looking forward to our return to Derry tomorrow to join in what I know will be a fantastic occasion."

Mr Robinson said: "I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to the City of Londonderry and its people on becoming the United Kingdom City of Culture 2013.

"In particular I would like to thank the bid team who have worked tirelessly to turn their vision into reality. To have beaten off stiff competition from a number of other major UK cities is a tremendous achievement and is reflective of the bid teams enthusiasm and professionalism.

"The North West and indeed Northern Ireland as a whole basks in the glory of their achievement. This success portrays Northern Ireland in a positive and inspirational light and is indicative of what we can offer the world both culturally and socially.

"I have no doubt that the people of Londonderry will embrace the spirit and ethos of the City of Culture and that 2013 will be a great year for the City, the North West and Northern Ireland."

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