Among Belfast’s leading visitor attractions is HMS Caroline which is set to reopen in the city’s harbour after almost three years of closure.

The WWI C-class light-cruiser HMS Caroline, which is the only surviving ship from that war’s Battle of Jutland off Denmark, is to reopen daily from 1st April.

In addition HMS Caroline which was built in Birkenhead, England, is to have opening times at the weekend throughout March.

The ship built in 1914 is located in Thompson Dry-Dock, has been painstakingly restored and offers visitors the opportunity to experience life aboard the veteran vessel.

HMS Caroline is largely intact from the day it was completed at the Cammell Laird shipbuilder more than a century ago, including its living quarters, signal school, engine room, sick bay and galley.

Visitors to the museum ship will be able to journey back to a dangerous life at sea during WW1. Exhibits and displays on board allow visitors to learn to crack codes, launch torpedoes and signal ships through interactive displays.

Access to where the crew and slept is available to explore and also to hear their stories and find out about the incredible mascots that lived alongside them.

More from The Irish News on the 4,000 tonnes museum ship.

Minister for Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte has announced plans to reopen licensed commercial fishing in Castlemaine Harbour in Co Kerry, following the results of last year's pilot fishery.   

“I am satisfied, based on scientific and fishery management advice... that it is safe to reopen this fishery under closely controlled conditions," said Minister Rabbitte. "The trial fishing conducted in the harbour last year establishes that this can be done without impinging on threatened stocks."

A statutory 30-day public consultation has now commenced on the required amendment to the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme 2011 to provide for the fishery's reopening.  

"The consultation period will give those who disagree with that conclusion to put forward their views and I will pay close attention to what they say before reaching a final conclusion on the matter," the minister added.

Minister Rabbitte has also tasked Inland Fisheries Ireland with ensuring full enforcement of relevant quotas and conservation by-laws.