Ian Paisley truly felt the hands of time upon him recently as the outgoing-First Minister officially started a clock mechanism at Belfast’s latest Titanic attraction.

Titanic Dock’s Clock Tower and Pump House, which played a pivotal role in the infamous ship’s construction, have been restored to their former glory, after extensive works undertaken by the Northern Ireland Science Park, funded by the NI Tourist Board and the NI Environment and Heritage Service.


Dr Paisley, inspecting the completed refurbishment work at the Clock Tower and Pump House, paid tribute to the now almost extinct shipbuilding industry in the Province: "In the past days of Northern Ireland’s great shipbuilding industry this clock tower was a focal point for the workers visible from all parts of the shipyard."

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Dr Paisley said he hoped the clock would become a focal point again, for visitors to Ulster, whose imaginations have been captured by Belfast’s role in the Titanic story.

"The shipbuilding era may have passed but we are beginning to replace it with other industries including tourism. £1.2million has been invested in the Titanic Dock and Pump House Project providing a unique visitor experience ensuring that the story of the Titanic continues to be shared with a much wider audience.

"The whole Titanic Signature Project has the potential to deliver a step change for tourism in Northern Ireland," said Dr Paisley. 


Chair of the Northern Ireland Science Park Frank Adair said the Edwardian pump house dates back to the peak of the ship build trade in Northern Ireland.

Mr Adair said he believes investing in heritage sites is a credible means for the Province to maximise economic potential: "In today's 21st century global economy Northern Ireland is moving towards reclaiming past reputation as a centre of world-beating innovation."

The Chairman said the restoration project has been centered on "recognising and cherishing our position within maritime history", as well as sending out a message that the country has a proven history of cultivating innovators, with a "track record of which to be justly proud".

The NISP will also grant public access to a WWI memorial located at the pump house.

The memorial was created by renowned local sculptress Rosamond Praeger and unveiled by Sir Edward Carson in 1919.

(PR)