The Secretary of State has this evening (25 May) honoured the crucial work by civic society to support the peace process over the past 25 years at a reception in the iconic Game of Thrones Studio Tour.
The reception, part of the Northern Ireland Office's programme to mark the 25th anniversary of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement, was held three days after the 25th anniversary of the two referenda in Northern Ireland and Ireland in which 71% of people in Northern Ireland voted 'yes' to the Agreement.
Representatives from community organisations, charities, and public servants who have supported Northern Ireland's transformation came together to reflect upon the peace, prosperity and other benefits delivered by the Agreement, while looking towards the next 25 years. It also offered the opportunity to acknowledge civic society's ongoing contribution to the peace settlement.
Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris paid tribute to the incredible work of community organisations and charities in supporting reconciliation between communities, which created the conditions for prosperity which allowed Northern Ireland's film industry to flourish and to attract world - leading productions such as Game of Thrones.
According to the latest figures, screen tourism played a part in attracting one in six out-of-state visitors, accounting for 350,000 visitors and over £50m for the local economy.
The Secretary of State said:
The people of Northern Ireland, in voting 'yes' in the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement referendum, demonstrated their commitment to setting aside their differences, breaking down barriers between communities and building a better future together.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to those members of civic society who have worked tirelessly to make that vision of a better, brighter future a reality which they will pass on to the next generation.
It's the work of many that has seen Northern Ireland move from peace to prosperity. As a result of that transformative power of peace we have seen the establishment of a thriving screen and film production and tourism industries of which the Game of Thrones Studio Tour is a shining example.
The UK Government remains committed to the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement, and to continuing to deliver for the people of Northern Ireland, to make it an even better place to live, work and do business.
The Game of Thrones Studio Tour at Linen Mill Studios is renowned as a filming location for iconic scenes from the multi award-winning television production Game of Thrones. The Banbridge venue is the world's only official Game of Thrones Studio Tour, featuring authentic sets, costumes, and props from the global hit TV series.
Executive Director of Linen Mill Studios David Browne added:
Prior to the Good Friday Agreement, it's difficult to conceive of circumstances where Northern Ireland would be considered as the filming home for Game of Thrones, nor that the business environment would have existed, to nurture, support and invest in the businesses required to design, build, and install everything in a facility such as this.
Along with the many local companies we have worked with, we are immensely proud of what we've collectively achieved.
The rave reviews from visitors from all over the world, both for our people and the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, certainly validate that pride!
In September, the UK Government will hold the Northern Ireland Investment Summit to support our vision for a prosperous 25 years ahead. The Summit is a key part of the programme to showcase the remarkable progress in Northern Ireland since the signing of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement.
