​The Clipper Race Welcomes the Irish Tánaiste to Derry-Londonderry

The Irish Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) and Foreign Minister Mr Simon Coveney has congratulated the Clipper Race crew on their achievements after visiting the yachts whilst in Derry-Londonderry.

After arriving with the John Boyle, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Mr Coveney was invited on board HotelPlanner.com and given a tour by Skipper Conall Morrison and Irish round the world crew members Mary Frawley and April Rellis.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston was also on hand to welcome Mr Coveney and says: “I think it’s great he’s come down. If the Foreign Minister of Ireland wants to make a visit then I’m delighted to receive him. You just need to look around Derry-Londonderry today with the start of the Foyle Maritime Festival to see what a great event we’ve got.”

This is the fourth time the Clipper Race fleet has been hosted by Derry-Londonderry and Sir Robin says that the impact of the race on the city has been extraordinary to see over the last eight years, adding: “The big impact of the Clipper Race on the city of Derry-Londonderry is down to the great work of the Derry City, Strabane District Council and the local community. They are very active with us and you can see that by just looking around at the great event going on across the city.”