Hazzard meets Rathlin Development and Community Association (RDCA)

Date published: 16 August 2016

Speaking on his first official visit to Rathlin, the Minister said he was committed to the Rathlin Island Policy and Action Plan.

Chris Hazzard said:

“I believe it is vital that we strive to make Rathlin a vibrant, healthy, sustainable community that looks to its future in a positive way. It is only right that islanders receive access to public services that the rest of us often take for granted and the Executive’s policy will seek to improve the conditions of all people on the island while also protecting its natural and cultural heritage."

During his visit, the Minister viewed the ongoing Harbour works, the Manor House project and the proposed wind turbine site with Michael Cecil the Chairman of the Rathlin Development and Community Association (RDCA) and other Association members.

The Minister added:

“Today’s visit has given me the opportunity to see for myself the progress being made on our only inhabited off-shore island. My Department will continue to support the island through the Rathlin Island Policy, Action Plan and Ministerial Forum and I am keen that we continue to be involved in key projects which will enable the community to move forward in a positive way.

“My Department and the community were recently involved in revising the current Rathlin Island Action Plan. I have had an opportunity to view the draft Plan and think the revised format brings the Plan to life. I look forward to launching it in the near future.

“I also look forward to returning to Rathlin in September to Chair my first Ministerial Forum meeting which monitors the progress of key stakeholders in implementing the Rathlin Island Action Plan. I will continue to work with the Islanders and other interested parties to ensure the sustainability of island life and the promotion of a vibrant island community.”