Newton rounds off Ramadan celebrations at Stormont

Junior Minister Robin Newton has joined with members of Northern Ireland’s Muslim community to celebrate the end of Ramadan and to mark the beginning of Eid Elfitr.

Organised by the Egyptian Society of Northern Ireland, Robin Newton MLA MBE, welcomed over 100 guests including the Egyptian Ambassador, Mr Hatem Seif El Nasr, to Stormont.

Junior Minister Newton said: "Today around the world, the Islamic family marks the end of the blessed month of Ramadan and celebrates Eid.

"It is particularly notable that the celebration is taking place in Parliament Buildings, as this is the first time that Eid has been celebrated in any European Parliament.

The Minister underlined the Executive’s commitment to work for all people in society: "We in government want to see and build a society where majority and minority ethnic communities work together and learn together to forge a better future for all."

The end of the month long observation of Ramadan is celebrated by Islamic families by the three day Eid celebration. Junior Minister Newton joined in the celebration saying he did so "in the spirit of fraternity, family and friendship."

Notes to editors:

1. This year’s event marks the last day of the month long Ramadan festival and the first day of Eid ElFitr, a Muslim holiday. The celebrations last for three days the end of Ramadan and togetherness of family and spirit.
2. Organised by the Egyptian Society for Northern Ireland, the Egyptian ambassador to the UK, Mr Hatem Seif El Nasr, attended along with representation from the PSNI and the Northern Ireland  Islamic Centre.
3. All media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9037 8119. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440