Portaferry people have a big affection to aquarium

Portaferry people have a big affection to aquarium

2 October 2013

THE massive show of public support for Exploris on Monday night shows the connection local people have with the aquarium, said a leading figure involved with the campaign to keep it open.

Cathie McKimm, a spokeswoman for the Friends of Exploris, said it’s vitally important to maintain the united front in the days and weeks ahead.

She said the support at the public meeting is reflective of the whole campaign to keep Exploris open with local people and those across Northern Ireland getting involved.

“While Exploris is not yet a recognised regional facility, there is certainly a regional

sentiment and a regional drive which is not insignificant,” continued Ms. McKimm.

“There is a real connection to Exploris.”

Ms. McKimm said Friends of Exploris will be part of the new working group which has been established to seek regional funding for the aquarium.

“Securing regional funding is the single message moving forward. Friends of Exploris will also be working away in the background to ensure this facility does not close.

“If Exploris can secure regional status and central government funding that will be brilliant, but also  let’s have a service that’s something to be proud of,” she continued.

Ms. McKimm added: “Let’s not have the lack of investment and marketing which there has been over the past few years. There has been a sheer lack of vision for Exploris and this must change.”