Menu
10/07/2002
Reid confident war graves will remain undisturbed
Secretary of State, Dr John Reid, has said that he is confident the French government will not go ahead with the proposal to build a new airport for Paris on the site of World War One war graves.
Dr Reid was briefed on the latest developments during his visit to France at the beginning of the month to take part in the annual Somme commemorations.
He believes the graves will remain undisturbed after the appointment of the new French transport minister, Giles de Robien, who has always opposed the airport plan.
Dr Reid said: “No final decision has been taken by the French authorities but all the indicators point to a dramatic cooling of interest in the proposal.
“While we must still remain vigilant, this is great news for everyone in Northern Ireland who has been concerned about the future of the Ulster graves.
“The proposal was a matter of deep concern to many and the strength of opposition was evident at the briefing I hosted at the Somme Heritage Centre in May.
“Your input and lobbying has been vital in highlighting the threat that existed and I have raised those concerns at every available opportunity and at every level of government."
Dr Reid added that it was appropriate that in the anniversary month of the Battle of the Somme, the threat to the graves of those who sacrificed so much for others seemed to be diminishing. (MB)
Dr Reid was briefed on the latest developments during his visit to France at the beginning of the month to take part in the annual Somme commemorations.
He believes the graves will remain undisturbed after the appointment of the new French transport minister, Giles de Robien, who has always opposed the airport plan.
Dr Reid said: “No final decision has been taken by the French authorities but all the indicators point to a dramatic cooling of interest in the proposal.
“While we must still remain vigilant, this is great news for everyone in Northern Ireland who has been concerned about the future of the Ulster graves.
“The proposal was a matter of deep concern to many and the strength of opposition was evident at the briefing I hosted at the Somme Heritage Centre in May.
“Your input and lobbying has been vital in highlighting the threat that existed and I have raised those concerns at every available opportunity and at every level of government."
Dr Reid added that it was appropriate that in the anniversary month of the Battle of the Somme, the threat to the graves of those who sacrificed so much for others seemed to be diminishing. (MB)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
25 November 2024
Visit Belfast Celebrates 25 Years of Transforming Tourism Landscape
Visit Belfast, the city's dedicated Destination Marketing and Management Organisation (DMMO), is celebrating a quarter-century of success.
Visit Belfast Celebrates 25 Years of Transforming Tourism Landscape
Visit Belfast, the city's dedicated Destination Marketing and Management Organisation (DMMO), is celebrating a quarter-century of success.
21 November 2024
5 New Trends Sweeping The Online Gaming Industry
Online gaming is constantly changing. Each year, new trends emerge that shape the experiences of millions of players worldwide. This year is no different, with several exciting shifts capturing the attention of gamers everywhere.
5 New Trends Sweeping The Online Gaming Industry
Online gaming is constantly changing. Each year, new trends emerge that shape the experiences of millions of players worldwide. This year is no different, with several exciting shifts capturing the attention of gamers everywhere.
19 November 2024
Seating Matters To Create 62 New Jobs In £3.7m Investment
Economy Minister Conor Murphy has announced a significant investment by Seating Matters, a leading global manufacturer of therapeutic seating solutions. The company will invest £3.7 million in its facilities in Limavady and Derry, creating 62 new jobs over the next two years.
Seating Matters To Create 62 New Jobs In £3.7m Investment
Economy Minister Conor Murphy has announced a significant investment by Seating Matters, a leading global manufacturer of therapeutic seating solutions. The company will invest £3.7 million in its facilities in Limavady and Derry, creating 62 new jobs over the next two years.
18 November 2024
Belfast's Vacant To Vibrant Scheme To Expand Citywide
A successful scheme aimed at transforming vacant properties in Belfast city centre into thriving businesses is set to be extended across the entire city. Belfast City Council's Vacant to Vibrant programme has already breathed new life into 26 properties, with another six sites in the pipeline.
Belfast's Vacant To Vibrant Scheme To Expand Citywide
A successful scheme aimed at transforming vacant properties in Belfast city centre into thriving businesses is set to be extended across the entire city. Belfast City Council's Vacant to Vibrant programme has already breathed new life into 26 properties, with another six sites in the pipeline.
15 November 2024
Belfast City Council Approves Range Of Transformative Projects
Belfast City Council's Planning Committee has given the green light to a series of projects aimed at transforming the city's landscape. One significant development is the redevelopment of the former police station at 21 Queen Street into a 74-bedroom hotel.
Belfast City Council Approves Range Of Transformative Projects
Belfast City Council's Planning Committee has given the green light to a series of projects aimed at transforming the city's landscape. One significant development is the redevelopment of the former police station at 21 Queen Street into a 74-bedroom hotel.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
