FERMANAGH played host to two Northern Ireland Ministers on Tuesday as preparations for this June’s G8 summit continued.
Mike Penning MP, Minister of State at the Northern Ireland Office, made his first visit to Fermanagh yesterday for a number of meetings in advance of June’s G8 summit.
The Minister, who was accompanied by Justice Minister, met representatives of the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Chief Executive of Fermanagh District Council to learn about preparations for the G8 Summit in June.
Both Ministers were given a tour of the Lough Erne Resort by the hotel manager, Ferghal Purcell, and had the opportunity to discuss the potential impact the decision to host the summit has had on the resort and its neighbours.
They also discussed the additional security measures that are being put in place to ensure a safe and secure venue for all those visiting Northern Ireland for the summit.
Later the Ministers met with Superintendent Pauline Shields, PSNI District Commander, and her senior command team who provided an overview of the challenges which they are currently working through.
Following the meeting with the PSNI, Mike Penning commented: ‘I am delighted to be in this beautiful part of Northern Ireland today, and can see for myself exactly why the Prime Minister has chosen Lough Erne to host the G8 Summit. This will provide an inspirational setting for world leaders to discuss ambitious solutions to global problems.
‘During our visit today, David and I have been impressed by the excellent work that is being undertaken by the PSNI and local organisations. This is designed to ensure that Fermanagh, and Northern Ireland as a whole, gets the best from the G8 summit, including encouraging inward investment and showcasing NI as a first rate place to visit and in which to do business.
The Minister said that he was confident that the PSNI were well equipped and prepared to ensure the 2013 summit was peaceful and safe.
He continued: ‘The PSNI are doing an absolutely fantastic job, and I know that the local people of Fermanagh will continue to provide them with the support they need in the coming few months.
That local engagement is vital, and will show to the world that Northern Ireland is embracing this opportunity to host such an important global conference. In turn we hope the summit will provide residents with a positive and memorable experience, as well as enjoying the lasting benefits it will bring to the area.’
Mike Penning also met with Brendan Hegarty, Chief Executive of Fermanagh District and local councillors to hear about the important work the local agencies and organisations are involved in, and how they are engaging with the wider community to ensure that Enniskillen and the entire Co Fermanagh area are ready to welcome the world in June of this year.
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