8 December 1999
NEW ENVIRONMENT MINISTER PAYS TRIBUTE TO HISTORIC MONUMENTS COUNCIL
New Environment Minister, Mr Sam Foster, today attended a reception at Hillsborough Court House, to pay tribute to the work of the Historic Monuments Council. The Council, which advises the Department of the Environment on matters relating to historic monuments and archaeological sites, has reached the end of its 3-year term of office.
Addressing the Chairman, Mr Campbell Tweed, and Council members, Mr Foster said:
"I would like to thank you all for the excellent service you have given in the last three years. I know that the care of Northern Ireland's built heritage is dear to your hearts. You have been consulted on legislative change, on planning issues, on the protection of historic monuments and the promotion of their public appreciation. Your advice has always been measured and timely."
Mr Foster also took time to tour the historic Court House building, which is in his Department's care. Restoration of the Court House, earlier this year, was recognised by an award from the Civic Trust.
NOTE FOR EDITORS
- The Historic Monuments Council is a statutory advisory body first established under the provisions of the Ancient Monuments Act of 1926.
- The Council's current authority derives from the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (Northern Ireland) Order 1995.
- The role of the 14-member Council is to advise the Department of the Environment on matters relating to the protection, preservation, conservation and investigation of historic monuments, archaeological sites and landscapes and their settings, and archaeological objects.
- It is expected that a new Council will be announced early in the New Year.
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