Official Opening of Waterways Ireland Headquarters, Enniskillen

The new Waterways Ireland Headquarters building in Enniskillen was officially opened earlier today by Gregory Campbell, MLA, Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure together with his colleague Éamon Ó Cuív, T.D. Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

The state of the art three story building, constructed within budget, which has its own exhibition space, car park and jetties, is located on the shores of Lough Erne.

Culture Arts and Leisure Minister, Gregory Campbell MP MLA said: "It is a perfect location for your business and a far cry from the two buildings which Waterways Ireland occupied on a temporary basis for the first few years of its existence. Many local people were employed during the construction of this magnificent building and I hope that Enniskillen will continue to benefit economically and socially from having the headquarters building located here."

At the opening Minister Ó Cuív said: "This stunning building overlooks Lough Erne and I am certain that the staff will enjoy working in such beautiful surroundings. The extensive use of glass means that the building reflects the water therefore compliments the landscape. Another important factor is that the building has achieved excellent standards in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability, as it is designed to use biofuels and solar panels for heating. My congratulations to Waterways Ireland Chief Executive John Martin, his staff and all involved in completing this magnificent project."

The project has complied with the Government's 'Achieving Excellence in Construction for Northern Ireland' initiative which promotes design quality and sustainability in construction, whilst achieving best value for money. The building design complies with the Low Carbon Design Initiative and has achieved the highest Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment (BREAM) score of any building in Northern Ireland. The building's heating is fuelled by bio fuels & solar panels and was designed and constructed to be accessible to all.

Mr. John Martin, Chief Executive, Waterways Ireland said "The accommodation of all Waterways Ireland staff in one location is a long sought after objective and I am grateful to all involved including the sponsor Departments for their contribution and assistance with the project. The development and construction of the building is a major boost to the economy of Enniskillen and indeed Fermanagh."

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