Strangford DUP MLA Simon Hamilton has told the Assembly that much more needs to be done to make the most economically from Northern Ireland's historic environment.

Mr Hamilton told colleagues at Stormont that the 10,000 jobs sustained by the historic environment can be increased alongside the contribution of the sector to the economy, but he also stressed that better branding and marketing is essential if this aim is to be achieved questioned if the NIEA is the right organisation to capitalise on the potential of Northern Ireland's historic environment.

Mr Hamilton said: "We all know that Northern Ireland is blessed with an exceptional historic environment. From Grey Abbey and Nendrum Monastic Site in my own Strangford constituency to the likes of Carrickfergus Castle and Dunluce, we all appreciate that we are fortunate to have a rich history reflected in a brilliant built heritage.

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"What many of us don't appreciate however, is the contribution such sites make to the local economy. Research carried out on behalf of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency found that our historic environment accounts for £532 million of output every year and generates up to 10,000 jobs. For every £1 of public sector money invested in the sector, £3 to £4 of spending by the private sector is generated. These figures are impressive but they wouldn't be as high as other jurisdictions and the report itself suggests that there is great growth potential.

"Certainly, a clear strategy for the historic environment and additional resources are important but so too is better branding and marketing. he report's recommendations stress the need for an enhancement of the presentation of Northern Ireland's historic environment sites with clearer signage, connections between sites and a wider range of activities for the public to enjoy. The report stresses too that significant improvements in websites, literature, social media and promotion in general is required."

(CD/GK)