Ritchie rallying call for Pride awards

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA today announced a £12,500 funding contribution to the seventh Pride of Place Awards Ceremony.

Pride of Place is a prestigious all-Ireland competition which is designed to recognise improvements made by local communities to create civic pride in their area. This year's awards ceremony is in Newcastle, Co. Down on 21 November 2009.

The competition is hosted by Co-operation Ireland under its Local Authority Programme in conjunction with the all-island Local Authority Steering Forum with officials from authorities in the North and South.

Local Authorities from practically every county in Ireland have nominated groups in their local area for the awards. Over 100 nominations were put forward in 2008. Nominations for 2009 have now closed.

Pride of Place complements the Minister's regeneration objectives and gives recognition to the efforts made by local people to enhance the visual appearance and quality of life in their areas.

Margaret Ritchie said: "The Pride of Place competition is a unique opportunity to recognise and reward the efforts of hardworking members of the community who have made a difference through regeneration, inclusion or environmental efforts.

"I am particularly pleased that these awards celebrate the achievements of projects that strive to serve the needs of disadvantaged and marginalised communities. I trust that entries from the North will continue to enjoy success this year."

Notes to editorsrot

1. Pride of Place received £12,500 funding through DSD's Voluntary & Community Unit.

2. Pride of Place closed for applications on 24 April 2009.