Minister progresses Action Plan for Rathlin

During the visit the Minister chaired the first Minister’s Forum to be held on the Island.

The Minister said: “Since coming into office, I have been committed to improving island life for the people of Rathlin and championed the development of an Executive Policy for our only inhabited off shore island. I welcome the opportunity to return to Rathlin to chair the first meeting of the Minister’s Forum and to progress the Rathlin Island Action Plan.”

The Forum, which includes Island representatives and senior officials from Government Departments and Moyle District Council was born out of the Rathlin Policy ratified by the Executive in February this year.

Mr Murphy said: “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.

“My Department has led the development of the Action Plan in consultation with Islanders and other interested parties to ensure the sustainability of island life and the promotion of a vibrant island community. I welcome the endorsement of the draft Plan by the Rathlin Development and Community Association at today’s meeting and I look forward to continuing to work with all concerned to progress the Rathlin Island Action Plan.”

Noel McCurdy, Chairman of the Rathlin Development and Community Association added: “We were pleased to welcome the Minister to Rathlin again along with representatives from the various Government Departments and Moyle District Council. The Action Plan represents a positive start in helping to improve the quality of life for the people on Rathlin.”