New building for Rivers Agency base in Cookstown moves a step closer

PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 8/9/2011: Agriculture Minister Michelle O'Neill watches the eels being sorted at Lough Neagh Eel Fishermen's Co-operative Society with Father Oliver Kennedy, Chairman of the Co-op, during her visit to Toomebridge today. The visit marks the award of Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) to Lough Neagh Eels.
PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON — PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 8/9/2011: Agriculture Minister Michelle O'Neill watches the eels being sorted at Lough Neagh Eel Fishermen's Co-operative Society with Father Oliver Kennedy, Chairman of the Co-op, during her visit to Toomebridge today. The visit marks the award of Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) to Lough Neagh Eels. PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON

She said: “I welcome Cookstown District Council’s decision to approve the planning application for the new Rivers Agency Headquarters at their meeting on 10 December 2014.

“This is a significant development in the Rivers Agency relocation project, which is part of a wider programme to move DARD jobs into rural areas.

“As I have said before, my Department is leading the way on addressing the redistribution of public sector jobs across the north, which will help share the wealth across the economy and contribute to better balanced economic growth. The benefits for the local community are clear to be seen, particularly around construction and the increased footfall for the area.”