McGuinness praises work of cultural groups

Preserving our different traditions, cultures and languages are key to learning and respecting each others heritages, deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness told the bi-annual Gaeltacht Quarter Conference held in Belfast today.

Mr McGuinness MP, MLA said that along with the economic value it provided to local communities, promoting culture also played a central role in who we are and how we want to live.

Mr McGuinness said:“The bulk of the past century was taken up by division and conflict. I believe that these failures must be consigned to the past. At the start of this century we set out to redress this history. I believe we must set a course to deliver equality, prosperity, and reconciliation for all in our diverse community. The projects incorporated in the Gaeltacht Quarter give voice to that vision.”

The deputy First Minister put forward the need for a new approach to ensure that all communities benefit from the peace and prosperity. He said:“We need a strategy which delivers on three fronts. A strategy which will open up opportunities for all communities to benefit from the economy; tailor physical development projects in areas of disadvantage to meet needs and promote economic development; and tackle educational disadvantage and support communities to be safe, welcoming and shared.”

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