There is to be a minor boost for the construction sector with news of a £900,000 funding package offered by International Fund for Ireland (IFI) to develop the old Templemore Avenue School in east Belfast.

Robin Newton, East Belfast DUP MLA, said: "I want to express my thanks to IFI for their vision in supporting this very worthwhile project. This scheme to bring the former Templemore Avenue Primary school back into use as a community networking centre will greatly enhance the area," the MLA (pictured) continued.

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"It will when operational provide educational, training and social opportunities for future users. In addition bringing this near derelict building back into use will brighten up the area and remove the blight the building currently causes."

"I want to congratulate Michael Briggs and his team at East Belfast Community Development Association (EBCDA) for their foresight and hard work in bringing this project to this stage of development.

"The final piece of the jigsaw in getting the project fully funded rests with Minister for Social Development, Alex Attwood. I am continuing to lobby him to make his funding decision in favour of the project.

"I know having visited the area he is impressed with this vital community project but he now needs to confirm his support with a funding package," the Junior Minister said.

(GK/BMcC)