Northern Ireland Assembly

PLAN FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY The Assembly Employment and Learning Committee has backed an action plan designed to avoid the scenes of appalling behaviour witnessed in the Holyland area of Belfast on St Patrick’s Day last year. Members of the Committee have been involved in preparing the plan over a number of months to ensure that the St Patrick’s Day celebrations pass off peacefully this year. Chairperson of the Committee, Sue Ramsey MLA said: “We are tremendously supportive of the work that has been done by the two universities, the Employment Minister, residents’ groups, the PSNI and a number of other stakeholders to ensure that this year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is remembered for all the right reasons. “An unprecedented level of effort and co-operation has been put into operation by all those concerned. Anyone who has been in the area will have seen banners urging good behaviour, and leaflets have been delivered to houses in the area highlighting the need for responsible behaviour on St Patrick’s Day.” Anna Lo , Committee member and MLA for the area commented: “I have been very close to the situation on the ground in the Holyland area. I know how the residents dread a repeat of last year’s outrageous behaviour, so we must make sure that the plans that have been put in place are followed. There is no place for drunken chaos this year.” ENDS Notes to Editor: The Committee Chairperson is Ms. Sue Ramsey MLA Committee members: Mr Jonathan Bell MLA Mr. Paul Butler MLA Mr Trevor Clarke MLA Rev. Dr. Robert Coulter MLA Mr. David Hilditch MLA Mr. William Irwin MLA Ms. Anna Lo MLA Mr. David McClarty MLA Mrs. Claire McGill MLA Mr Pat Ramsey MLA Media enquiries should be addressed to: Ms Debra Savage, Communications Officer Northern Ireland Assembly Telephone – 028 90 521405/521137 Mobile: 07920 864221 Email – info.office@niassembly.gov.uk
ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE