25/01/2013

Backin' Belfast: Council Pledges £400k

Belfast City Council has announced it will be putting up £400,000 towards the Backin’ Belfast campaign, bringing the total to £1.5m.

The Northern Ireland Executive pledged £600,000 earlier this week, while local businesses have pledged £500,000.

The money will go towards re-branding the city’s image, which many feel has been damaged by violent protests over the flying of the union flag at Belfast City Hall.

Councillor Deirdre Hargey made the announcement accompanied by the Lord Mayor and party group leaders.

She said: "Just two weeks ago, this committee discussed the difficulties being faced by the city`s business community, both in the city centre and in other areas, and agreed that myself, the Lord Mayor and representatives of the political parties should meet with traders and representatives of the hospitality industry to listen to their concerns and ideas to respond to the crisis.

"We met them within two working days and by the end of that week the Backin` Belfast campaign had been developed with the support of central and local government as well as those most affected in the business community."

Lord Mayor Alderman Gavin Robinson added: "The business community`s tremendous energy, positive attitude and great ideas have been vital in getting us to where we are today.

"As politicians, we may have different political views and positions, but the one thing we are all united on is supporting the economic development of Belfast and improving the prosperity and quality of life of all our citizens."

(IT)

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