Minister Kimmins committed to progressing the Rathlin Island Policy
Date published:
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins visited Rathlin Island today to meet community representatives and to learn more about a number of projects taking place on the island.
This was Minister Kimmins first visit to Rathlin since taking up the post of Infrastructure Minister and she was warmly greeted by members of Rathlin Development and Community Association (RDCA) who updated her on the latest environmental and development plans before taking her on a guided tour of the island including a boat trip to the island’s seabird colony.
Following the visit, Minister Kimmins said:
“Rathlin is a truly magnificent island full of natural beauty. I was delighted to be able to visit the East Light today and hear of the ambitious plans for redevelopment of the site and to discuss future initiatives being progressed by Rathlin Development & Community Association (RDCA) through the Future Island-Island project and local Universities to bring socio and economic benefits to the island.
"I was pleased to hear more about the Rathlin Citizen's Panel, deliberating on a future for the island's ferry service. This service is supported by my Department and I welcome this democratic engagement in the community.
“What is evident is the passion the local community has for renewable energy and I look forward to continuing the work of my predecessors to support the island’s wider net zero ambitions and to exploring opportunities to progress the Rathlin Island Policy.”
Minister Kimmins also enjoyed a boat trip to the West Lighthouse, accompanied by team leaders from the Life Raft biodiversity project, to view the nesting puffins and other wildlife.
She added:
“It was a privilege to get so close to the island’s birds and other wildlife today. This is nature at its finest and we must consider how it can be enjoyed while ensuring the surrounding environment is protected and continues to thrive."
Chair of RDCA Marina McMullan said:
“I was delighted to welcome Minister Kimmins to Rathlin today and show her what the island has to offer. I am pleased that she shares our enthusiasm to continue to drive the Rathlin Island Policy forward and to see the island's projects develop. I look forward to continuing to work with her and the Department to help turn our vision of community-owned green energy into reality.”
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption - Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins visited Rathlin Island today where she had the opportunity to learn more about a number of projects taking place on the island. Minister Kimmins is pictured with representatives from the Rathlin Development and Community Association, The Future Island-Island Project and the Life Raft Project.
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