Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “I am pleased that the Assembly voted in favour of this motion to save Exploris. It is a valuable asset not only for tourism and the economy of the local area but Northern Ireland as a whole.
“The public outcry that followed the decision of the Council to close Exploris has shown the support that exists for this wonderful facility. I would like to commend the campaign group ‘Friends of Exploris’ who have worked tirelessly to lobby Ards Borough Council and the Assembly to keep Exploris open.
“Whatever solution is found, it will require the support of both the Council and Government officials, so I am pleased at the correspondence I have received from the Enterprise Minister and the First and deputy First Ministers, which spoke of possible support from officials for any plan.
“I hope that the support from the Assembly for this motion will encourage Ards Borough Council to rescind their original decision to close Exploris.”
ENDS