Press Release (Project Launch January 2010)
Issued on behalf of the International Fund for Ireland,
Northern Ireland Rural Development Council and
Riverstown Enterprise Development (Sligo) Ltd & Brookeborough &
District Community Development Association
Press Release
RIVERSTOWN & BROOKEBOROUGH MAKE LINKAGES
Friday 29th January 2010 marked the launch of a cross border project between Riverstown Enterprise Development Ltd & Brookeborough & District Community Development Association in The Station House, Brookeborough.
The partnership project received financial assistance of €193,838 from the International Fund for Ireland’s Integrating Community Organisations Programme, which is designed to help community organisations to co-operate on a cross-border and/or cross community basis. The Programme is all about providing opportunities for groups to step outside their normal comfort zones and start taking risks for peace by linking with other groups, which in the recent past would not have been deemed possible or acceptable to do so.
Attending the official launch Ken Gibson, Secretariat of the International Fund for Ireland said: “The International Fund for Ireland is delighted to be associated with this project. I have no doubt that the local communities will reap the benefits and opportunities accruing from this for many years to come, long after the Fund ceases to exist. The Fund could not pursue its aims and objectives without committed individuals and organisations like Riverstown and Brookeborough – ultimately, it is the vision, enthusiasm and commitment of funded organisations which helps us to secure successful outcomes.”
Speaking on behalf of The Riverbrooke Project John Deignan, said:
“no one person can change the world, but each individual has the ability to change themselves from the inside out and see the world through different eyes …
It is very important through all the work of the project that we encourage participants to recognize that difference is in fact the same,
Aims and Objectives of the project
- To gain a new and deeper understanding of how peace changes lives and communities
- To develop pride in our traditions and communities
- To deepen our awareness of how difference is good in a community
- To deepen awareness of the value of our young people
“I wish to thank all participants of the project and pay tribute to the courage they have shown in entering a process which at times will bring and has brought them to look at very painful and sensitive areas of their past lives. I applaud you and wish you continued success on your journey”.
On a personal note John said he had been humbled to hear the stories of some participants and the journeys they have traveled, and said “it leads me to be more convinced than ever of the continued need for groups such as ours to help people move on from a distressing past towards a brighter future”.
He went on to thank the International fund for Ireland for funding the project and the Rural Development Council who manage the fund.
ENDS
