Conway Mill - 27 January 2010

Ladies and gentlemen,

May I first take this opportunity to thank you for inviting me back here today to celebrate the completion of the first phase of the refurbishment of Conway Mill.  Much progress has been made since my last visit and all those involved in the work that has brought the project to this stage are to be congratulated.   

As the Minister responsible for social development, I am, of course, delighted that my Department was able to support this project through the neighbourhood renewal fund.  This project will provide an enhanced facility that will foster and encourage social and economic opportunities for many people in the community through creation of jobs.  It will act as a flagship for regeneration in the Greater Falls Regeneration Area with the creation of over 100 jobs within 4 years of the refurbishment being completed.

There are people present who will know better than I that Conway Mill was built in the 1840s when Ireland was renowned as one of the foremost linen producers in the world.  It employed thousands of women primarily and young girls in conditions which were notoriously cruel, harsh and demanding.  

Hopefully those employed here now do not have to endure the same.

The Mill closed in 1972 and since 1982 the complex has been used for local community, economic and social regeneration.   

Over the last number of years I am aware that a lot of planning, dedication and hard work have gone into bringing this project to fruition. I want to commend the Chairperson Jim Neeson and members of Conway Mill Preservation Trust Ltd for their vision and determination which has helped enable the creation of this marvellous facility which is owned and managed as a community, economic, educational and cultural regeneration facility.

When work is completed I understand the Mill will retain a heritage building, while providing accommodation for 20 new artists’ studios, 16 new enterprise units, 2 workshop spaces / kiln rooms and a new reception / foyer and courtyard with atrium.

The refurbishment will leave scope for future development including a café, a number of multi- purpose arts spaces for performances, exhibitions, conferences etc and additional enterprise and craft units.

Once again thank you for the invitation to attend this event and I hope that the ongoing work in the next phase will be as successful as the first.  I look forward to returning when the Mill is fully restored and providing employment opportunities for people living in this area.

Thank you all.