Speaking at the Owenbeg Centre of Excellence outside Dungiven the Minister said that himself and the First Minister viewed it as a priority of their office that the North’s ever growing ethnic community should be welcomed and made feel at home.
“The first official engagement we held as joint heads of this administration was when we welcomed representatives of ethnic minorities to Stormont to celebrate their contribution to society here. I can think of no better way to encourage their participation in all walks of our life than through sport and would commend the GAA for their efforts to do just that.
“I know the work being done at this camp is replicated in the many camps organised by the GAA and many other sports over the summer and look forward to the day when it will be a common sight to have young people from all traditions and backgrounds participating in various sports at all levels.
“As a Derry man I am of course also delighted to have this opportunity to meet with some of the county’s players who give their time and expertise to help out at these camps and wish them well for their All Ireland quarter final clash with Dublin. I would also like to wish Tyrone and Monaghan well as they also fly Ulster’s flag in the last eight.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. Last year over 30,000 children took part in the Ulster Cul Camps aimed at girls and boys between the ages of 5-11.
2. Currently the Ulster Council has strong links with 10 organisations representing Foreign Nationals, over 1,500 non nationals took part in Ulster GAA activities last year.
3. The camps include plenty of field based coaching and conditioned games, as well as that there will be information provided on hydration, nutrition, strength and conditioning and some use of psychology. A selection of Inter-county players will be attending the camps. The camps are sure to help the playing standards of all who attend.
4. For media enquiries contact Paddy Cullen on 07850 187134.
5. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
