Junior Minister Kelly celebrates 'Let Youth Lead` Project

Junior Minister Gerry Kelly today praised a group of local young people who have successfully completed the Let Youth Lead cross community project.

Speaking at an event to celebrate the project’s success Mr Kelly said: “The young people who have completed this project are an example to us all. They have overcome their differences by working together to enjoy and share a better and brighter future.

“Over the last six weeks this group of young people have come together in a very practical way to examine issues such as interface violence, community diversity, racism and prejudices. They have clearly had an experience that has been both positive and rewarding not only for themselves but also for their immediate families and communities.

“Improving the lives of children and young people is a top priority and it is pivotal to building a society where people of all ages, background and beliefs can live, work and play together.

“That work is ongoing on a daily basis in rural and urban settings by organisations who enrich the lives of young people, empowering and equipping them for a life free from sectarianism and racism and all forms of intolerance.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The event marks the end of Let Youth Lead’s current cross community project work between young people aged 13-16 years old, from Lower Oldpark, Ardoyne, Westlands and Cliftonville/Cavehill/Antrim Road areas of North Belfast.
2. This six week project has been funded by NBCAU and has included discussion workshops about conflict origins, interface violence, community diversity, racism, prejudices etc. The Cross Community Youth Project have also done team building activities and a trip away to look at other neighbouring communities and how they live.
3. Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned. Pictures from the event to follow.