Neeson makes case for SS "Nomadic"

12.00.00am GMT Mon 29th Nov 2004

Alliance Assembly Member Sean Neeson, who represents Northern Ireland on the UK National Historic Ships Committee, will be making a case this week for the SS "Nomadic" to be listed on the Core Collection of historic ships if purchased by the Government.

Mr Neeson said: "The sale of the Nomadic presents a unique opportunity for Northern Ireland to at long last make a visible contribution to recognising the importance of the "Titanic", and also the importance of shipbuilding here.

"If the "Nomadic" is registered on the Core Collection, it will make the ship eligible to be considered for funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, as well as other heritage trusts.

"Her restoration will be a major project and would be a significant tourist attraction in the development of Titanic Quarter in Belfast. This would also be a great confidence-building measure for East Belfast, which I have already pointed out to the Secretary of State, Paul Murphy.

"For too long our rich maritime heritage has been given little regard, both North and South of the border. The purchase of the "Nomadic" by the Government would make a worthwhile and important start."