10 March 2003

MINISTER WELCOMES CREATION OF CONSULTATION PANEL FOR REGENERATION OF MAZE SITE

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State with responsibility for Economic Policy, Ian Pearson, MP, has welcomed the creation of the consultative panel to deal with the regeneration of the Maze and Long Kesh security site. The panel met for the first time today in Lisburn City Council offices.

Mr Pearson said: "The setting up of this panel is another step forward in regenerating a site which has the potential to play a hugely important part in the whole Reform and Reinvestment Initiative which was announced last May by the then First Minister and Deputy First Minister Rt. Hon David Trimble, MP MLA and Mr Mark Durkan, MLA along with the Prime Minister and the Chancellor.

"The transfer of the site, involving 360 acres close to the main motorway system must be seen in a regional context. Such a large and strategically situated site has great potential and needs careful consideration.

"The panel’s work will involve spearheading a wide ranging consultation programme and bringing forward a report on the potential use of the site. The panel hope to provide a report within the next six months which will outline the way ahead for further regeneration of the site."

The panel is made up of nominees from the four main political parties, representatives from a number of key government departments and the Chief Executive of Lisburn City Council. It is chaired by David Campbell with vice chair, Michael McKernan, who have been nominated by the former First Minister and Deputy First Minister respectively.

This week saw the official handover from the Ministry of Defence of the former military base element of the site which incorporates 90 acres. The remaining 270 acres, which houses the Maze prison, is expected to be handed over in 2004.

Former MoD bases at Magherafelt and the Malone Road in Belfast were also officially handed over this week. A fourth base, Ebrington Barracks in Londonderry is due to be handed over late this year.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. The inaugural meeting of the Maze Consultation Panel was held at the offices of Lisburn City Council on Monday 10 March 2003. The chair and vice chair of the panel are David Campbell and Mr Michael McKernan respectively. The group also includes Mr Edwin Poots MLA, Mr Mairtin OMuilleoir, Mrs Gerry Cosgrove and Mr Roy Bailie CBE.

2. Information on the Reinvestment and Reform Initiative can be accessed on the OFMDFM website at – www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/rri

3. Further information contact OFMDFM Press Office, tel. 028 9037 8116 or mobile 07850 187134