Mr McCartney said: "This is a decisive step forward for the transformation of the Long Kesh site. The site has already seen many thousands of visitors since it closed as a prison and the building of a Conflict Resolution Centre on the site will add to that appeal.
"Republicans obviously think of the many people who have been imprisoned there and of course the prisoners struggle for political status. Others, including those who worked there, also have their story to tell.
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"The site has a unique history and one that will clearly appeal to a lot of visitors. The centre should become a venue for assisting in peace-building in other conflicts around the world and also a resource for those researching the Irish Peace Process.
"Sinn Féin have pushed to have the Long Kesh site developed in order to maximise the economic, historic and reconciliation potential of the site.
"Sinn Féin are for celebrating diversity and the Long Kesh site is one that has a history that is different to many of us. Respecting each other and each other's history is essential as we move further away from conflict."
(CD)
