Ulster Unionist MLA for North Antrim, Robin Swann, today hosted the Royal Scottish Band Pipe Association Northern Ireland Branch (RSPBANI) at Parliament Buildings, Stormont for an event entitled ‘Promoting the Advancement of Pipe Band Music’.
The Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee member commented;
‘The RSPBANI is an important organisation throughout Northern Ireland given that it represents around seventy pipe bands and has over three thousand individual members across all communities. They undertake vital work in promoting the culture of pipe band music as well as contributing to the growth of the cultural tourism sector, not least through the organisation of a number of competitions each year. They also provide a thriving teaching facility which provides young people with the opportunity to partake in a positive past time.’
‘I was very pleased to be able to host this event today which was well attended by officials from the RSPBANI, including President George Ussher, various band members and MLA’s from a number of Parties. I believe that it is important to highlight the excellent work which is on-going at the RSPBANI and the relevant government Ministers must commit to adequately resourcing this organisation given the cultural, social and economic benefits which it generates.’
‘The event was a resounding success and the Ulster Unionist Party are fully behind the RSPBANI as they look to build on their significant success to date.’