Ministers extend Crumlin Road Gaol tours due to popular demand

Public tours of the famous Crumlin Road Gaol are being extended for a further three months, announced the First Minister, deputy First Minister and the Minister for Social Development today.

The Gaol has exceeded its target of 20,000 visitors over the last year and, due to the high levels of demand, this historic tour will continue to operate until mid December.

First Minister, Peter Robinson said: “I welcome the extension of these tours of the historic Crumlin Road Gaol. This year’s success in attracting over 20,000 visitors is a welcome boost for this area of North Belfast and is testament to the unique and historic tourist facility we have at the heart of this community.”

Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “The success of the tours of the Gaol, allied to the planned programme of work which is due to commence early in the New Year, is to be welcomed and will play a major part in regeneration of the area.”

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said: “The extension of these tours also serves to generate investment in the area. It is a symbol of economic regeneration and a positive contribution to this part of North Belfast.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Crumlin Road Gaol was transferred to OFMdFM in August 2003 under the Reinvestment and Reform Initiative. The site of the former Girdwood Army Barracks was transferred to DSD in April 2006.

2. The Gaol has now been open for public tours for the third year running. The Gaol will remain open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays for historical tours from 03 October until 13 December 2009. Tours will take place from 10.00 am to 3.15 pm (last tour) on Saturdays and from 11.00 am to 3.30 pm (last tour) on Sundays. Admission is £5.00 per adult (£3 in groups of 10 or more) with free admission for concessions (children, senior citizens and unwaged). Further information on the public tours can be obtained from the Belfast Welcome Centre Tourist Information at 47 Donegall Place, Belfast or online at www.gotobelfast.com.

3. For media enquiries contact DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.