The Minister also used the visit, at Low Quarter Orange Hall outside Lisburn, to speak with local organisation, Brookmount Cultural and Education Society.
Speaking after the meeting Minister Ritchie said: “I welcome the opportunity to have met with the Orange Community Network and in particular the Brookmount Cultural and Education Society. It is important for me to see and hear the impact the work being carried out by the Orange Community Network is having on groups such as Brookmount. It is clear that much is being achieved in this way and it is an excellent example of partnerships working for the benefit of their local communities."
Minister Ritchie added: “I believe the work of the Orange Community Network, through Brookmount Cultural and Education Society, is essential in developing the capacity of individuals to work together in order to create vibrant, confident and cohesive communities and I wish both organisations well for the future.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- The Orange Community Network was established in 2006 as a result of funding made available from the International Fund for Ireland. The organisation aims to work with individuals and groups using Orange Halls in order to develop individual and community capacity.
- Brookmount Cultural and Education Society was established in 2002 to educate and raise awareness with regard to Ulster Scots cultures and other indigenous cultures. Since then the organisation has grown and developed and now offers a wide range of activities for its 60 plus members on a weekly basis.
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