Minister Liz Kimmins visits Rathlin Island, praises green energy vision and community-led initiatives

Minister Kimmins is pictured with representatives from the Rathlin Development and Community Association, The Future Island-Island Project and the Life Raft Project.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins made her first official visit to Rathlin Island today since taking up her ministerial role, engaging with local residents and community leaders to hear about ongoing environmental, infrastructure, and sustainability projects.

The visit was hosted by the Rathlin Development & Community Association (RDCA), which welcomed the Minister and provided updates on initiatives central to the island’s future, including the Future Island–Island collaboration and green energy aspirations.

Minister Kimmins was given a guided tour of the island, which included a visit to the historic East Light site and a boat trip to the island’s iconic seabird colony, home to puffins and other native species.

“Rathlin is a truly magnificent island full of natural beauty.” the Minister said.

“I was delighted to be able to visit the East Light today and hear of the ambitious plans for redevelopment of the site and to discuss future initiatives being progressed by Rathlin Development & Community Association (RDCA) through the Future Island-Island project and local Universities to bring socio and economic benefits to the island.”

The Minister also discussed the evolving role of the Rathlin Citizen’s Panel, which is currently deliberating the future of the island’s ferry service—a lifeline supported by the Department for Infrastructure.

“I was pleased to hear more about the Rathlin Citizen’s Panel, deliberating on a future for the island’s ferry service. This service is supported by my Department and I welcome this democratic engagement in the community.”

Sustainability was a key theme of the visit. Accompanied by leaders of the Life Raft biodiversity project, Minister Kimmins visited the West Lighthouse, observing nesting puffins and discussing conservation efforts.

“It was a privilege to get so close to the island’s birds and other wildlife today. This is nature at its finest and we must consider how it can be enjoyed while ensuring the surrounding environment is protected and continues to thrive.” she said.

The Minister also reiterated her Department’s commitment to supporting the island’s transition to renewable energy, highlighting the importance of the Rathlin Island Policy in achieving net zero ambitions.

“What is evident is the passion the local community has for renewable energy and I look forward to continuing the work of my predecessors to support the island’s wider net zero ambitions and to exploring opportunities to progress the Rathlin Island Policy.”

RDCA Chair Marina McMullan welcomed the visit, expressing optimism for continued collaboration:

“I was delighted to welcome Minister Kimmins to Rathlin today and show her what the island has to offer. I am pleased that she shares our enthusiasm to continue to drive the Rathlin Island Policy forward and to see the island’s projects develop. I look forward to continuing to work with her and the Department to help turn our vision of community-owned green energy into reality.”

Minister Kimmins’ visit is seen as a reaffirmation of the Department for Infrastructure’s support for Rathlin Island’s unique needs, aspirations and its community-driven approach to development, sustainability, and connectivity.