New learning resource will deliver valuable lessons from the past - Ruane

The experiences of ex-combatants and politically motivated ex-prisoners here can provide many valuable learning points for today’s schoolchildren.

That was the message from Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, as she attended the launch of a new resource for local schools entitled, 'From Prison to Peace: Building on Experience'.

The resource, which has been developed by a partnership of community and former prisoner groups from all sides of the community, provides a range of interesting, challenging and informative learning materials for pupils at Key Stage 4.

Speaking at the launch event in Belfast, the Minister said: "As we move forward into a more progressive and equal society, it is important that we do not forget the lessons of the past. The re-integration of politically motivated ex-prisoners into society provides an opportunity for them to contribute positively to this progress and help ensure that history does not repeat itself.

"This innovative learning resource seeks to build on the strong relationships that have been established between a range of diverse groups. The materials have a strong emphasis on anti-sectarianism and anti-racism, which aligns well with the focus on Citizenship in the Revised Curriculum."

The Minister continued: "The learning materials are the culminations of much hard work on the part of those involved in the From Prison to Peace project. I commend all the participants and hope this new resource will make a strong positive impact on the learning experience of local young people. We will be making this resource available to post-primary schools."

Notes to editors:

1. From Prison to Peace is a partnership venture involving the following organisations:-

• Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, Lead Partner
• Lisburn Prisoners Support Project
• North Belfast Community Development and Transition Group
• Charter Regional
• Charter NI
• Highfield Prisoners in Partnership
• Belfast South Community Resource
• COISTE na n-Iarchimí – Political tourism project
• Teach na Fáilte
• EPIC North Ulster An Eochair
• The HUBB (a north Belfast Epic project joining the partnership)

2. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.