North Down Ulster Unionist MLA Alan Chambers has called for action to be taken to ensure that the 2017 Circuit of Ireland Rally goes ahead.
Mr Chambers said:
"The Circuit of Ireland Rally is one of the highlights of Northern Ireland’s sporting calendar so the news that it will not take place in 2017 will come as a huge disappointment to tens of thousands of motorsport enthusiasts.
“This is a major blow to Northern Ireland plc given that in addition to the many thousands of local motorsport fans, the Rally was watched by an estimated 40 million television viewers worldwide last year providing Northern Ireland with an incredible reach in terms of publicity and advertising.
“I understand that issues have arisen with regard to uncertainty over the financial support package required to run the event and I would hope that the announcement that the event is in jeopardy may concentrate minds and ensure that funding is guaranteed.
“I will be contacting the promoter Bobby Willis to see if there is anything which I can do to help save the rally and ensure that Northern Ireland does not lose out.”