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Lough Erne residents have their say on G8 summit plans

Meetings take place to ensure the G8 summit has the least possible impact on the daily lives of local Fermanagh residents.

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Lough Erne

Lough Erne resort

Representatives from the G8 Presidency Unit, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Northern Ireland Office and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) today met with members of the Lough Erne community to discuss plans for work to be carried out in the area ahead of the G8 Summit in June.

The meeting allowed local people to share their views and raise any concerns about the potential impact on the community in the run up to, and during, the G8 summit.

The organisers explained how they are keen to work with local people in developing solutions to ensure the summit has the least possible impact on their daily lives. At the same time, they want residents to experience a memorable summit and enjoy the benefits it brings to the area. G8 presents a once in a lifetime opportunity to shine an international spotlight on this beautiful corner of Northern Ireland and put Fermanagh firmly on the world map as a business and tourist destination. The support of the local community will be vital to delivering this lasting legacy.

Residents were also given an update on security measures to be introduced in the run up to the summit and reassured that this will be sensitively managed to minimise disruption to the area. The PSNI told residents that the police will be well equipped and prepared to ensure the 2013 summit is peaceful and safe. Careful consideration is also being given to the summit’s implications on day-to-day local policing, to make sure that community safety and security across the District is not affected.

PSNI District Commander, Pauline Shields said:

This evening’s meeting was a fantastic opportunity to meet residents of Lough Erne village and hear their thoughts on G8. Local people have their own important role to play in making sure the summit is a great success, reflecting the spirit and vibrancy of this wonderful part of the country.

I’m looking forward to further discussions with the community as we get closer to the summit.

Today’s meeting was the first of several occasions for the G8 organisers to engage directly with local residents. Over the next few months, the UK government, PSNI and the Northern Ireland Executive will continue to consult closely with the people of Enniskillen, local councillors, businesses and community organisations on preparations for the summit.

Published 5 March 2013
Last updated 7 March 2013 + show all updates
  1. Amending lead Department

  2. First published.