Mid Ulster Sinn Féin MLA Francie Molloy has welcomed the decision of the Agriculture Minister, Michelle O’Neill MLA to begin the process of transferring the whole site of the O’Neill Inauguration seat at Tullaghogue from DARD to NIEA.

The decision follows a series of discussions concluding in a meeting on Wednesday 19th September.

Francie Molloy was central to bringing together the O’Neill Society, NIEA, DARD and Cookstown District Council who are all crucial stakeholders in the future of the site.

In welcoming the outcome of the latest meeting Mr Molloy said: "The lands located at Tullaghogue are of great historical importance to the local area, to Cookstown District and the wider county of Tyrone.

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"I greatly appreciate the work of the O’Neill Society and the support they have shown to this initiative in securing the lands for future generations.

"The decision by Minister Michelle O'Neill to transfer the land to NIEA will ensure the preservation of the site and will also enable Cookstown District Council to work in partnership with NIEA to develop and promote the site as a vital piece of our shared history. Indeed this site is recognised as one, which predates modern religious and political identities, being a prominent location down through the centuries.

"The future of this site is all the more important when considered in the context of the new Mid Ulster Council bringing in the seat of the O’Neills in Dungannon.

"That project is due to be launched in the coming weeks and will be a great asset to the area."

(CD)