Minister Wilson commends PEACE III funded cross-community work in North Belfast
24 September 2009
Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson, recently visited North Belfast to view regeneration work at a local interface.
The work, being undertaken at Alexandra Park, is being taken forward by Groundwork Northern Ireland, assisted by almost £1million of European Union PEACE III funding.
The Reconciling Communities Through Regeneration Project, gives local community and statutory agencies the support needed to reduce sectarian attitudes in the interface area and cut the number of peace walls, murals, flags and painted kerb stones.
The Minister said: “As Finance Minister, I am responsible for the European Union’s PEACE III Programme in Northern Ireland. Beneficiaries of PEACE III funding, such as Groundwork NI, are engaged in vital work in many interface areas.
“Today I was able to witness at first hand how people from different communities are working together to create a shared space that can be enjoyed by all, irrespective of their background.
“In helping to regenerate Alexandra Park, people living within the Tiger's Bay and Newington Parkside area of North Belfast are challenging some of the root causes of sectarianism and in doing so, are improving the quality of life for themselves and future generations.
“This project allows local communities to have a real say in the future of their areas. Groundwork NI has ensured that residents in this part of the city have been fully involved in shaping the future of their own community.
“The project is also designed to ensure that the momentum of cross-community engagement will continue long after its completion, ensuring that lasting benefits will outlive the PEACE III Programme.”
Pat Colgan, Chief Executive of the Special EU Programmes Body said: “This is an extremely worthwhile project and one that will help transform some of the areas within Northern Ireland and the Border Region of Ireland most badly affected by the legacy of conflict. In focussing on building positive relations at a local level it will promote greater levels of tolerance, trust and equality. This lies at the heart of the PEACE III Programme as it works towards supporting reconciliation and creating a peaceful and more stable society.”
Sylvia Gordon, Director of Groundwork NI commented: "We are very grateful for all of the support and financial assistance we have received in helping this project to become a reality. Designed to transform specific areas that have been badly affected by conflict, the Reconciling Communities Through Regeneration project will help reduce or eliminate symbols of sectarian aggression. This is key if we are to support a culture of mutual respect and tolerance."
Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson is pictured with Pat Colgan, Chief Executive of the Special EU Programmes Body and Agnes Junk and Jackie Trainor, local representatives from Tigers Bay and Newington Parkside respectively.