McCausland welcomes Jordanians to Stormont

Sports Minister Nelson McCausland today welcomed the launch of the London 2012 International Inspiration project linking Jordan with Northern Ireland.

Speaking at a reception in Stormont the Minister said: “As Minister for Culture and Sport in Northern Ireland, I welcome the launch of International Inspiration and Northern Ireland’s participation in it.  Through this programme we will share our sports initiatives and encourage exchanges and communications between schools in Jordan and Northern Ireland.”

The Minister welcomed the Jordanian guests to Stormont as well as representatives from the British Council and David Healy, the Northern Ireland 2012 Ambassador.

The Minister concluded: “International Inspiration is an ambitious project aimed at transforming the lives of 12 million young people in schools and communities across 20 developing countries worldwide by 2012, through the power of high quality and inclusive physical education sport and play.”

Speaking about the event, David Healy said: “I am delighted to be here at Stormont to show my support for the International Inspiration programme. Participation in sport encourages a healthier lifestyle and has the ability to break down barriers. I am looking forward to hearing the positive impact the programme has on our young people both in Northern Ireland and in Jordan.”

Mary McGeown, project manager for skills and youth programmes within the British Council added: “International Inspiration provides an exciting and challenging opportunity to enhance the reputation of Northern Ireland as a source of expertise and as a powerful partner for skills and development in the areas of sport and physical education. It also creates opportunities for our young people and educators to engage in meaningful dialogue with counterparts from another culture.”

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