Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:
“2021 has the potential to be year of celebration across Northern Ireland and the entire UK as we mark 100 years since the foundation of Northern Ireland and the creation of the United Kingdom in its present form. However, it appears those celebrations will not be assisted by the department which should be taking the lead on such an historic occasion given its remit when it comes to historic and cultural issues, the Department of Communities.
“The dismissal by the Minister of my suggestion that a centenary capital fund be opened shows just how inclusive Sinn Fein’s vision for the future is. If Unionists want to know how their identity will be treated in any “agreed Ireland” they need only read this curt answer. When one thinks of the many millions which have been funnelled into the GAA, Casement Park alone is set to cost well in excess of £100 million with the vast majoity of that money coming from the public purse, it is scandalous that the Department could not find any money to mark 100 years of Northern Ireland.
“Northern Ireland has produced many world-class sportsmen and sportswomen who have excelled on the global stage and it is shameful that this unique opportunity to reflect on those achievements and inspire future generations has been missed because of the narrow mindedness of a Sinn Fein Minister.
“This decision once again highlights the madness of having a party in the government of a country it does not wish to exist.”
Note to editors
Mr Allister’s question and the Minister’s response read as follows:
To ask the Minister for Communities what plans has she for a centenary capital fund to help community and sporting groups to advance projects to mark the Northern Ireland Centenary.
There are no plans to create a centenary capital fund for sporting groups. Sport NI, an ALB of the Department, is a lead body for the development of sport here. Any investment it provides to the sector is to improve sports facilities, increase participation opportunities in sport for all abilities and to build capacity to continue to develop sport at all levels from grassroots up to high performance.