Ruane encourages cross community respect

Education Minister Caitríona Ruane was today at Glentoran Football club to help launch 'Respect' a new cross community project aimed at strengthening community relations.

Nearly 300 children from various schools were at the Oval to meet the Glens players and take part in coaching sessions aimed at developing links between local groups and clubs.

Speaking at the event the Minister said: "Sport has a great capacity to bring people together. This is demonstrated here today by the number of young people from different schools from across the community.

"As a keen sportsperson I know first hand the benefits of taking part in sports and being active. As Education Minister I have introduced a curriculum sports programme working with the IFA and the GAA which sees coaches from the IFA and GAA working alongside class teachers to develop children's physical literacy skills. The feedback has been so positive from young people, coaches and teachers that the programme was recently expanded and additional coaches recruited.

"The Respect Project is invaluable in using sport to help reinforce a positive message, teaching our young people to respect themselves, the feelings of others, and to speak, listen and learn. I congratulate everyone involved in the event today and wish you every success with the future project."

Notes to Editors:

1. The Respect Project is organised by Bactiv Events in partnership with Glentoran Football club.

2. Schools represented will be St.Matthew's, Park School, Nettelfield Primary School, Elmgrove Primary   School, Victoria Park Primary School, Dundonald Primary School, Leadhill Primary School, Knocknagoney Primary School, St.Patrick's Primary School, Holywood Primary School, Brooklands Primary School, Orangefield Primary School, Orangefield High School, Ashfield High, St Joseph's Primary School, Cregagh Primary School, St Bernard's Primary School, Braniel Primary School, Knockbreda High School, Belmont Primary School, Dundela Infants School and Redburn Primary School.

3. Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9755. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.