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11/05/2007
Arts 'breathes new life' into regenerating communities
Arts and cultural projects offer huge potential to help breathe new life into areas which have become run down say Arts Minister Edwin Poots, and Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie.
Mr Poots was delivering his first major speech on the value of arts and culture to Northern Ireland as he joined fellow Minister Margaret Ritchie at the opening of the £3.4 million Alley Arts and Conference Centre in Strabane.
Mr Poots said: "While many would lament the loss of the former mart on the site, many more will join me in congratulating Strabane District Council for their foresight, vision and energy in delivering this exciting new project.
"By providing modern cultural facilities, you are helping individuals realise their ambitions and reach their potential, whether their talent is in acting, music, dance or any other discipline. And for those who prefer to be entertained, there is plenty on offer here in the Alley to do just that."
Commenting on the contribution made by her Department, Margaret Ritchie said: “The devolved administration has provided an opportunity for a new beginning and a chance to bring lasting peace and prosperity to Northern Ireland. My Department has a key role to play in this by reviving communities and bringing new life to towns and villages.
"This work and the contribution it can make to making life better for disadvantaged people and communities, is symbolised by this new arts centre and other work we are doing in Strabane.
"I am committed to work with all interests to build healthy, vibrant communities that leave behind the divisions of the past. Success can only come if all parties, both within and outside Government, work together in ways that benefit the entire community. I am particularly pleased to be attending this event with my Ministerial colleague Edwin Poots in our first joint engagement."
(JM/SP)
Mr Poots was delivering his first major speech on the value of arts and culture to Northern Ireland as he joined fellow Minister Margaret Ritchie at the opening of the £3.4 million Alley Arts and Conference Centre in Strabane.
Mr Poots said: "While many would lament the loss of the former mart on the site, many more will join me in congratulating Strabane District Council for their foresight, vision and energy in delivering this exciting new project.
"By providing modern cultural facilities, you are helping individuals realise their ambitions and reach their potential, whether their talent is in acting, music, dance or any other discipline. And for those who prefer to be entertained, there is plenty on offer here in the Alley to do just that."
Commenting on the contribution made by her Department, Margaret Ritchie said: “The devolved administration has provided an opportunity for a new beginning and a chance to bring lasting peace and prosperity to Northern Ireland. My Department has a key role to play in this by reviving communities and bringing new life to towns and villages.
"This work and the contribution it can make to making life better for disadvantaged people and communities, is symbolised by this new arts centre and other work we are doing in Strabane.
"I am committed to work with all interests to build healthy, vibrant communities that leave behind the divisions of the past. Success can only come if all parties, both within and outside Government, work together in ways that benefit the entire community. I am particularly pleased to be attending this event with my Ministerial colleague Edwin Poots in our first joint engagement."
(JM/SP)
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