Arlene among the stars at ni2012 launch

Published 23 Jan 2012 16:28

Fermanagh south Tyrone MLA and DETI Minister Mrs. Arlene Foster was joined by many big names from the screen at the official launch of ni2012 'Your Time, Our Place' in London recently.

Television presenter, Christine Bleakley and Bloomberg news anchor, Andrea Catherwood were among the many stars who added their support for the London launch. First Minister the Rt. Hon. Peter D. Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA also attended.

The London launch provided a platform for a year-long series of events and campaigns not only to attract tourists here, and to use the year 2012 to help change the image and perception of Northern Ireland.

Taking centre stage at this year's ni2012 extravaganza will be the opening of the new iconic visitor attraction Titanic Belfast to coincide with the centenary of the liner's fateful maiden voyage, along with a new state-of-the-art visitor centre situated at the stunning Giant's Causeway on the Antrim coast.

A series of high profile events is also on the menu, including the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, MTV concerts and celebrations such as the 50th year of the Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen's.

Speaking at the launch, Arlene Foster said that ni2012 was set to become the biggest and best show that Northern Ireland will ever have the privilege to stage. "From the opening of the iconic Titanic signature building to mark the centenary of the sinking of the famous ship which was born and bred in Belfast, through to the Peace One Day Concert featuring Jude Law and Massive Attack, the Circuit of Ireland rally, the Clipper round the World Yacht Race and the Belfast Festival at Queen to name but a few. As if that were not enough, we will now be hosting the Irish Open on the world class course at Royal Portrush - home to our famous golfers Darren Clarke and Graeme McDowell and where Rory McIlroy still holds the course record.

"As you can see 2012 will be a year to remember for Northern Ireland. But it is just the beginning of a new era and I am confident that it will generate a lasting and positive legacy to take us confidently into the future."

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