Twelve young people from across the US are here as part of the Young Ambassadors Programme, which is designed to promote a greater understanding of our shared cultural heritage and help them become cultural ambassadors.
Peter Robinson said: “There are many diverse threads to Northern Ireland’s culture and it is great to see these young people taking such an interest in it.
“I hope they go away with a greater appreciation of Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage and share it with their friends and family back home.”
Martin McGuinness said: “I hope like all welcome visitors to these shores, that they enjoy their experience, take back with them, the best our cultures have to offer, and share with us their own insights and cultural understanding.
“I wish these young people well in their studies. I am sure they will all make great Young Ambassadors.”
The Young Ambassadors Programme is organised through the Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick and its Friends groups in North America. It is sponsored by Foras na Gaelige, the Ulster Scots Agency and the Northern Ireland Bureau in Washington DC.
The young people will write dissertations on topics from examining Ulster Scots songs to a study of Irish Gaelic.
Notes to Editors:
Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1905. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
