Regeneration champion appointed for Newry

Social Development Minster David Hanson has today announced the appointment of a regeneration champion for the Greater Newry area.

Liam Quinn, Deputy Director in the Department for Social Development Regional Development Office, will take up the new remit and will work closely with Newry and Mourne District Council, the Chamber of Trade and Commerce and other interested parties to implement the Greater Newry Vision.

The Minister said: "I was in Newry in September to launch the Greater Newry Vision proposals. There are many forward-looking people in the Newry area and this process will be taken forward in partnership between them and government.

"Today's announcement that a highly-experienced official will take on the role of regeneration champion is evidence of my Departments commitment to the area. Liam Quinn will work with local people to help deliver the priority projects from the Vision document.

"Liam has an in-depth understanding of the regeneration issues facing the Greater Newry Area. I know that he will make a significant difference to improving working relationships between those on the ground in the Greater Newry area and Central Government."

Liam Quinn is Deputy Director in the Department's Regional Development Office and is responsible for urban regeneration across Counties Armagh and Down. He is originally from the Kilkeel area and was educated at St Louis Grammar School in the town. He previously served on the South Down Fishing Villages Taskforce, the Omagh Taskforce and the Maze/Long Kesh Consultative Panel.

(EF)