Daily

¤3/£2

Construction site in City, the second part of a four site cross border development called the North West Technology Zone, funded by the European Union’s INTERREG IIIA programme. The sites will be high tech and linked by a high capacity telecoms link. Bringing people together for a common goal European Union funding delivered PEACE has provided an opportunity to a source of encouragement for us all as The Special EU Programmes Body is a through the PEACE and INTERREG work towards the shared goal of we move forward. North/South Implementation Body programmes has been instrumental in achieving a more peaceful and stable sponsored by the Department of Finance bringing people together from all walks society where diversity is accepted as Furthermore, the skills and experiences and Personnel in and the of life towards the common goal of the norm, while INTERREG has helped gained over the past number of years Department of Finance in Ireland.The Body improved economic and social create cross-border partnerships that are now being shared with the newest was established on 2nd December 1999, conditions for society as a whole. continue to improve the social and members of the EU community as they under the Good Friday Agreement 1998 economic landscape of the border seek to overcome their own past, build and the British Irish Agreement, establishing Underpinning this has been a spirit of region. better societies and economies and implementing bodies.The Body reports to partnership – partnership between a work against the disadvantages of being the North/South Ministerial Council. variety of sectors, organisations, Creating and developing successful in border regions. government department, agencies and, partnerships is at the heart of the The Special EU Programmes Body’s fundamentally, between people. This SEUPB’s work in managing EU While we are all agreed that there is principal function is to act as the spirit of partnership has helped create structural funds in Northern Ireland still much to do within Northern Managing Authority for certain European genuine cross-border partnerships – a and the border . Ireland and the Border Region, we must Union Structural Funds, such as the €182 theme that will set the tone for future Our experience is that real also take time to celebrate the success million INTERREG IIIA Programme, the EU European Union funding programmes. partnerships lead to engagement, achieved to date. As we focus on the Programme for Peace and Reconciliation participation and consultation which, in success of cross-border collaboration, (PEACE II and extension), worth over €994 Northern Ireland and the border turn, foster lasting trust. the EU will continue to play a crucial million, and other community initiatives. counties of Ireland provide impressive role in supporting our transition to a evidence of the success that can be The projects highlighted within this more socially and economically stable Further information on SEUPB and its achieved through the PEACE and magazine provide clear examples of society. activities can be obtained at INTERREG programmes. such partnerships in action and provide www.seupb.org

The following honoress have been part-financed by the European Union Atlantic Drift Centre for Cross Border Studies - Development Commission Export Co-Operative Tyrone- Partnership Connecting Places, Peolple and Heritage Cross-Border Research Observatory Co-Operation Ireland Violence Against Women Knows No Borders East Border Region Tourism Kiosks Ballymacarrett Arts and Cultural Society Young Farmers Cross-Border Programme and Farmers’ Market NIPPA Digital Media Works Castleblaney Arts Centre INTERREG Cross Border Partnerships Oyster Farming Cross-Border Orchestra of Ireland Riverbrooke Easilift Bordervision Clones-Erne East Partnership Dunfield Castleblaney Community Enterprise PREP River Fane Disabled Angling Developments Ltd CAWT Trauma Recovery Network Glencree Centre Rural Men’s Project

ank of Ireland is he Special EU t delighted to be Programmes Body we believe in the old adage that involved in this is pleased to be A “your attitude B excellent initiative. As an T associated with this determines your altitude”. organisation which operates on both sides of the celebration of cross-border achievement. That’s why we, along with our partners, the border at the very hearts of our communities, we The success showcased within this magazine is a Special EU Programmed Body, , are very aware of the advantages that accrue tribute to the work carried out by everyone County Council and gasta.com, take our from close co-operation on a cross-border basis. committed to improving our social and economic hats off to the cross-border Top 50 we’re Indeed many of our customers will cite landscape through cross-border co-operation. honouring today. For, though representative of numerous examples of practical gains made by Each of the projects provides an insight into the all walks of life, they share in common a them through exploiting the opportunities partnerships that have been developed and the positive and confident attitude to the tasks of afforded by cross-border trade. environment of engagement, participation, trust wealth creation, bridge-building and Both parts of Ireland have strong and growing and respect that has been nurtured. They are community development. economies. The success of the Celtic Tiger has drawn from a number of areas including In fact, it’s their can-do attitude which is the been well documented for over a decade. business, the arts, sport and the voluntary and very cornerstone of their success. Their resolve Increasingly, good organisations from the North community sectors and serve as a source of to aim high was certainly needed in the past are taking advantage of opportunites this inspiration and encouragement to us all. when the border was a physical and growth offers. Northern-based firms have a well- The European Union’s PEACE and INTERREG psychological barrier to business and earned reputation for quality in goods and Programmes have demonstrated commitment to community relationships. However, the services and have found receptive customers in the transformation of society both socially and pioneers we’re honouring at this inaugural the South. Over the past ten years the economy economically for the people of Northern Ireland Celebration of Cross-Border Achievement don’t in the North has found a new confidence and has and the six border counties of the Republic of believe in letting barriers or borders get in the been highlighted as an opportunity by southern Ireland. way of progress. And, of course, the fact that firms. As we celebrate the success achieved to date, peace is putting roots across the land This has resulted in a new approach for many we also recognise that there is still much to do if makes their job all the easier. viewing the island as one economy and it has we are to achieve our goal of a peaceful and The success of our newspaper group is based brought real prosperity to all – and as more more economically and socially stable society on respect, trust and praise for our readers and organisations follow the lead of these pioneers where diversity is accepted as the norm. for those who work with us. Sometimes, we all they will quickly start to reap the benefits. forget to show those same qualities to those But it is not all about business. Many areas such Pat Colgan uniquely talented individuals and groups – 50 as sport, arts, education and community Chief executive of whom will gather at the Slieve Russell on development have moved on in recent years Special EU Programmes Body March 3 – who go that extra mile to build up through recognising the benefits available from our communities. This celebration is all about thinking cross-border. putting that right by applauding the efforts of At Bank of Ireland we operate one of Ireland's our cross-border champions whose attitude has most extensive and inclusive sponsorship made them all high flyers. programmes covering all areas mentioned above. And these are the areas that really matter to our Máirtín Ó Muilleoir communities. Those who have led the growth Managing director in these areas on a cross-border basis have all Daily Ireland/ made major contributions to all of us living on Group this island. Their efforts and vision should acknowledged, encouraged and celebrated and we are happy to join with Daily Ireland in so Daily Ireland doing.

Colm McKenna Head of Group Marketing Bank of Ireland Northern Ireland

Editor: John Grant. Reporters: Michael Hall, Damian Carney, Colm Ó Broin, Tomaí Ó Conghaile, Ronan Scott, Barry Caldwell, John . Photography: John Kelly, Michael Cooper, Herald, Newry Democrat, Sportsfile, Rally Ireland. Design: Adrian Hanna, Scott Silver, Clem Bradley. Front cover: Gerry Morrison. Advertising: Michelle Clarke ([email protected]) Printed by: Boylans, , Co Louth.

This magazine is published by the Andersonstown News Group and Daily Ireland. Phone: (048) 9060 8822. Email: [email protected] Copies of the magazine are available in pdf downloadable format at www.dailyireland.com. For additional print copies, call Connla Lawlor on (048) 9061 1916 or email [email protected]. The Celebrating Cross-Border Achievement Event in the Slieve Russell Hotel is organised by the Andersonstown News Group as part of its Top 50 Awards series. Other events planned for 2006 are the Top 50 Irish Speakers in Business, June 2006 (in partnership with ), the Deloitte Developing Top 50 in September 2006 (in partnership with Northern Bank) and the Aisling Awards (in partnership with Bank of Ireland) in November 2006. March 2006 03

Aidan Campbell Community Enterprise Ltd

n 1984 a group of community activists, Under chairman Aidan Campbell, the community- concerned about high unemployment in the based company has won plaudits as one of the most ICastleblayney area in Co Louth, set up enterprising and entrepreneurial ventures in Co Castleblayney Community Enterprise Ltd. Its primary Monaghan. task was to provide a location for local people to set “The centre’s contribution increased significantly in up their own business. In 1987, this was achieved. 1999 when our flagship project successfully located a What has evolved since is truly something for its modern food factory and laboratory on land just founding members – and chairman Aidan Campbell – outside the town. Employing 100 people from both to be proud of. sides of the border the business is now well- Current manager of the enterprise centre, Tommy established,” he says. McGuire, is pleased with progress made under his In 2000 renovation work was completed on the board’s direction but says the work goes on. centre, resulting in a state of the art seminar room “In 1987, the group committee secured the lease of and board room, along with three new workspace the Boys’ National School on the Dundalk road and units. The enterprise group continues to forge links converted it. Classrooms were transformed into work with groups across the border, co-ordinating its units and support services. Rents were made activities with the WAALD Centre in Cullyhanna, affordable and the local community has benefited Armagh. They are also involved in the Castleblayney since,” he says. and South Armagh (Casa) group. The group – which Tommy was appointed manager of the centre in comprises enterprise centre members and officials 1991. The former president (and first non-full-time from both Newry and and Castleblayney farmer) of all-Ireland youth group Macra na Feirme is councils – comes together regularly to discuss areas keen to attribute the success of the centre to the of social and economic benefit and development. dedication of the nine full-time staff members and the The enterprise group has also organised cross- group’s executive board. And he says the drive and border economic conferences. and staged two major vision of the board has been pivotal to its success. local business and community exhibitions.

Avril Crawford

Arts and Disability Forum

he Arts and Disability Forum began a series of that helps to make it a success,” says Avril. groundbreaking initiatives after it organised its This year the scheme will distribute over £50,000 Tfirst conference, in partnership with the Arts (¤73,000) to disabled artists throughout Ireland. Council of Northern Ireland. “This project is our biggest initiative and we provide a “The forum was established in 1993, when a lot of support and encouragement for disabled people number of like-minded people came together to to apply,” says Avril discuss the potential of setting up something to Grant recipients have ranged from people who are promote disabled people in the arts sector,” explains very new to the arts – perhaps discovering an artistic director Avril Crawford. “The Forum as it is now, was ability through attendance at a day centre – right set up in 1997. It promotes disabled artists and the through to people who have reached a high level of arts and disability arts sector and advocates on behalf skill in their work and are seeking funding for of disabled people as audience/consumers, ambitious contemporary arts projects. participants and practitioners in the arts,” Avril adds. One such project has involved a photojournalism In 1995 the council published Towards The trip to Vietnam to explore the legacy of Agent Orange Millennium, A Strategy For The Arts in Northern and its effects on children, Avril says. Ireland, which outlined its overall strategy. Since then A new project just beginning is called the Arts and there has been a closer relationship between the Arts Disability Equality Charter, which encourages arts Council and the disability groups throughout Ireland, organisations and events organisers to provide a high with the forum acting as an umbrella group for arts level of services to disabled people. It is a joint project and disability organisations. with Adapt NI and Open Arts. The publication of New Works: A Development The forum has 141 disabled artists as members Plan for the Arts and Disability Forum in 1997 throughout Ireland, including 103 in the North and 35 updated this strategic approach and has provided a in the Republic. practical template for action since. Avril was born in 1962 in , Co Antrim. The forum runs a number of projects. “The forum’s At the age of 14 she became severely deaf. She gallery is the first of its kind in Ireland, situated on attended Dunmurry High School, which had a hearing Belfast’s Royal Avenue. support unit. She graduated from the University of “The gallery shows a high standard of artwork by Ulster, Belfast, in 1996 with a BA Honours in Fine disabled artists from all over Ireland. It showcases Craft and Design. Avril was the first deaf student to artwork by professional and semi-professional artists,” do the course. “There were many hurdles to says Avril. overcome in just being able to gain access to the The centre also acts as an information service, and same information as the other students and it was a runs a website dealing with queries from the general major struggle for the first two years,” she says. In public and arts sector. 1997 Avril was offered the job of development officer Their flagship project is the Arts and Disability with the Forum and in 2003 was promoted to Awards Ireland which are administered on behalf of director. “If I wasn’t working in the job I’m in I’d the Arts Council of NI and Arts Council/An probably be producing my own artwork. I can’t seem Chomhairle Ealaíon. The Awards scheme has been to find the time to do it while I am working with the run by Gillian Porter, Administration Officer, for the Forum. But when I see artwork displayed in our past three years. “It is her dedication to the project gallery, I get the itch to do some of my own.”

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Tony Kennedy Florence Van Dijk

Co-operation Ireland Newry and Dundalk Farmers’ Market

o-operation Ireland is an border and allows pupils to collectively uying directly from producers and local producers, the venture has Intermediary Funding Body (IFB) for identify issues they feel need resolved. not having to rely on spawned two new businesses. Cthe EU Peace and Reconciliation "Young people learn how to be active Bsupermarkets for fruit and “The market is giving local people the Programme for Northern Ireland and the citizens and resolve divisive issues in society vegetables is an attractive concept for chance to set up in business. The only Border Region of Ireland. - without addressing these issues more and more of us. criteria in order to receive a spot on the A charity active since 1979, it was set up reconciliation is impossible," Tony says. The Newry and Dundalk farmers’ market is that the seller has to be a to promote peace and reconciliation by "Usually, members of the loyalist market allows those living around the local person selling his or her own bringing people in Ireland together to community feel more comfortable talking Armagh-Louth border to indulge their produce. In terms of community explore both their differences and points of to Southern participants about issues they preference for farm produce. regeneration, the project is significant,” common interest. have then talking with others just round the “The market is unique on the island of she says. Chief executive Tony Kennedy says a corner. Sometimes talking to perceived Ireland as being producer only. The market also serves to improve North-South dimension is at the core of his strangers is easier.” Everything on sale has either been community spirit and provide a bright organisation's work: The Pride of Place programme, now in grown, reared, raised, baked, caught, or tourist destination in both towns. "The conflict's symptoms have been its third year, is run in partnership with produced by the seller. There is no Florence’s plans for 2006 include concentrated in the North but its causes run local authorities on both sides of the middleman. A twice weekly market attracting more local producers to join through the whole of the island, so there border. It encourages people to improve provides a secure and regular outlet for the Market, promoting the Market as an must be an all-Ireland solution." their areas, whether socially, local producers with a large cross- attraction to visitors and developing a Born in Belfast in 1948, Tony attended environmentally, or in any other tangible border catchment area,” says the series of seasonal markets on St Steveson Primary in Dunmurry and Royal way, and stages award ceremonies each market’s development officer Florence Patrick’s day and Easter. The market’s Belfast Academical Institute. year to celebrate achievements. Van Dijk. annual turn-over is around ¤150,000 He graduated from Leicester University From its inception, Co-operation Ireland The project was launched in (£102,000). with a degree in Social Sciences and has maintained a strictly non-political and September 2005 by Newry and Mourne The three year project is funded by Technology in 1971. Between 1979 and non-sectarian stance. “We hold the view District Council in partnership with the European Union Interreg III 1983 he was the Housing Executive's that learning more about the views of Dundalk Town Council and the Chambers programme with match funding from regional director for the North West region. others through practical cross-border and of Commerce from both towns. A core both Councils. Between 1983 and 1992 he acted as cross-community co-operation need group of 20 local producers set up stalls For several years, Florence has been chief housing officer for Wakefield, before threaten no-one’s identity, political every Friday morning in Newry involved in the operation of markets. A being appointed as chief executive for Co- persuasion or religious beliefs,” says the Marketplace and on Saturday morning in native of Belfast reared in Dundalk, she operation Ireland. group’s director. With an annual the Courtyard of the County Museum, has a degree in French and English from The organisation runs a number of expenditure of ¤2.75 million (£1.9 million) Dundalk. "A loyal customer base is Trinity College. programmes designed to fulfil its stated and employing 45 staff, the organisation is slowly building of local people who enjoy After a successful marketing career objectives. Among them is the Civic Link funded by various bodies, including the buying fresh, local food in a relaxed with McCann-Erickson, Florence worked programme, established eight years ago, International Fund for Ireland, Interreg, the atmosphere,” Florence says. as a fundraiser for the Irish Hospice which matches schools from across the US Department for Education and the EU. As well as providing extra income for Foundation.

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Dr Laurence McKeown Coiste na n-larchimí

oiste na n-Iarchimí believes that full republican ex-prisoners to engage and reconciliation in Ireland can not be strategise with key sectors of Irish society Cachieved if political ex-prisoners have north and south, including the to hide the fact of their imprisonment. unionist/loyalist community, churches, The umbrella orgainsation for the ex- victims’ organisations and former military, republican prisoner network, which paramilitary and guerrilla combatants. comprises over 22 groups throughout “The programme provides an opportunity Ireland, was established in 1998 after the to reflect upon divisions within our society signing of the Good Friday Agreement. across all borders and promotes respect for Since then it has developed policy diversity and commitment to justice and positions and community inititaives on issues peace.” Coiste has held many of these affecting the ex-prisoner community, meetings at the Glencree Centre for including those of employment difficulties, Reconciliation in Co Wicklow. The group has freedom of movement and the need to fully offices in Belfast and and employs 12 integrate ex-prisoners into society. full-time members of staff. Founder member and research officer, Dr Dr McKeown was born on September Laurence McKeown, has been involved in 1956. He attended Fairnflough primary much of its work. school and St Olcan’s secondary in “We continue to play a key role in Randalstown, Co Antrim. After graduating highlighting and lobbying against the social, from Antrim Technical College in 1973, he economic, legal and societal barriers faced worked as a trainee quality surveyor with by political ex-prisoners and their families,” McLaughlin and Harvey. he said. In 1976, he was imprisoned after being “We have developed radical and arrested and charged with polically- challenging projects which foster greater motivated offences. interaction between republican ex-prisoners The former hunger striker was released in and all other sectors of Irish society,” he says 1992. In 1998, he completed his doctorate One specific project set up in 2002 has at Queen’s University Belfast, entitled The involved bringing together former rivals to Social Construction of the Irish Repubican discuss their future roles in a new society. Prisoner Community. Dr McKeown explains: “The Processes of Dr McKeown also works as a journalist Nation Building Programme, which I am and has written several books and plays. A involved with, is a programme of research, keen hill-walker, he currently lives in south engagement and outreach. It seeks to enable Armagh.

Bunscoil an Iúir

stablished in 1989, Bunscoil an Iúir has been central to the Irish language Emovement in Newry and the surrounding area. From humble beginnings in portacabin classrooms, the primary school now boasts modern facilities for nearly 100 pupils and also incorporates a nursery and after-school club. With pupils attending from Newry City, south Down, south Armagh and north Louth, the school is a vibrant example of grassroots cross-border initiative. Bunscoil an Iúir, through the dedication and talent of its staff, has helped to create a new generation of fluent Irish speakers and has ensured that the Irish language has a bright future in the Newry area. “The school is like a home from home for the children, and for me the biggest tribute to the school is that my 13-year-old daughter approached her former teachers herself and asked them could she volunteer in the Club Iarscoile,” said Caitríona Ruane, parent and local MLA. “This is just one example of what this school means to its former and current pupils,” she says. The club’s streaming nursery and Club Iar- Scoile (after-school club) have also been praised by educationalists.

08 March 2006

Cross-Border Research Observatory

ith data collection, north and south, inconsistent and incompatible, it’s the aim of the newly-launched Cross-Border Regional Research Observatory to Wset up a co-ordinated databank of use to social and economic planners. The pilot project will provide reliable cross border information through the collection, analysis and mapping of data relevant to the region. It will act as a spatial, social and economic databank resource for community, public and private bodies. Such a databank is becoming increasingly necessary given the commitment of the governments to the EU-driven initiative of strategic, transnational, spatial planning — which has given rise to the Regional Development Strategy in Northern Ireland and the National Spatial Strategy in the Republic. A co-ordinated databank will help inform local and regional development, aid service provision, stimulate economic growth and facilitate cross-border planning. Managed by a cross-border partnership beween the Dundalk Institute of Technology, NUI and Queen’s University Belfast, the project held an inaugural seminar in Armagh in February 2006. Pictured are, Chris Lloyd, School of Geography, Archaeology and Palaeocology, Queen's University; Ann McGeeney, Cross-Border Centre, DkIT; Stewart Fotheringham, National Centre for Geocomputation; Professor Rob Kitchin, National Institute for Regional Spatial Analysis and Justin Gleeson at the Cross-Border Regional Research Observatory meeting to inform and sustain cross-border spatial planning held in the Armagh City Hotel.

East Border Region Tourism Partnership

High-tech visitor information kiosks

aking the visitor experience unforgettable – for all the right reasons – starts with getting Mtourists information when they want it, where they want it. And for many first-time visitors that’s at their point of entry or at popular visitor centres. But information also needs to be delivered in an up-to-date and accessible fashion and that’s why the high-tech information kiosks pioneered by eight councils straddling the border have proved a success. Backed by Interreg, the East Border Region Tourism Partnership has placed state-of-the-art multi-media information kiosks at a host of visitor hot spots including Belfast International Airport, The Market House in Monaghan and Mount Stewart House in . “This provides an excellent example of the benefits to be gained from local authorities working in partnership on a cross-border basis,” said East Border Region Committee chairwoman Councillor Jackie Crowe. The council members in the tourism partnership include Newry and Mourne, Down and District Councils, Armagh and City District Council, Craigavon and Ards Borough Councils in Northern Ireland and Louth and Monaghan County Councils in the Republic.

Sheila Pratschke

Tyrone Guthrie Centre

rtists throughout Ireland have been retreating to cent of the total coming from the rest of the world. translators' bursary for those engaged in the translation of the idyllic Tyrone Guthrie Centre in Newbliss, Co “Artists working in all disciplines meet at Annaghmakerrig works of Irish literature into another European language. AMonaghan, since it opened in 1981. and many new and innovative collaborations have evolved It’s 25th birthday, to be celebrated this year, will see The centre is the former residence of actor Sir William out of these encounters.” the publication of an Annaghmakerrig book, supported by Tyrone Guthrie who, in his will, left his home to artists to The reintegrated Annaghmakerrig estate was handed events in Monaghan, Belfast and Dublin. The centre is also facilitate and encourage their creative endeavours. over to the public in 2004 and its maintenance is now the completing construction of a new performance studio. From its inception, the centre has been conceived on an responsibility of the Office of Public Works. It includes an The project employs six full-time staff and has an all-Ireland basis. “It was the subject of agreement at the extensive forest land, a 100-acre lake, a ten-bedroom annual expenditure of ¤450,000 (£308,000). first North-South Cross-Border Intergovernmental Victorian house, farmyard cottages and renovated Born in 1946 in Limerick, Sheila has a background in meeting in the late seventies and has since been supported outhouses, which provide living and working spaces for teaching, training and arts management. She was by both arts councils in Belfast and in Dublin,” its director artists. Artists who are ordinarily resident are subsidised appointed director of the Tyrone Guthrie Centre in Sheila Pratschke explains. by the Republic’s An Chomhairle Ealaíon and the Arts February 2001, after being director of the Irish Film “It has provided working residencies for thousands of Council in Northern Ireland. Institute in Dublin for seven years. “My main task is to artists from all over Ireland with approximately 25 per The centre also provides an EU-funded literary make people happy and free to fulfil themselves,” she says.

Paddy Devlin

Churchtown Community Association

he Churchtown Community Association in "It was not specifically directed at the aged; Castlederg has been responding to the needs anyone living alone and who felt vulnerable was Tof their community since 1986. offered help," Paddy Devlin explains. Windows were "We deliver a number of services to the given new locks, spy holes were added to doors, community corresponding with people's needs. remote security lights were installed and a Castlederg is a socially deprived town less then neighbourhood watch network was established. The recharge the batteries three miles from the border and many of our needs project was partly funded by Invest NI and shortly here are the same as those living in Donegal. afterwards the NI Housing Executive established a Geographically we have always considered them similar project in other areas in the North. part of our hinterland and community and therefore The community association recently secured have strived to serve their needs as well," says the funding for a new community resource centre in association's chairman, Paddy Devlin. the town. The new building will include provisions Slieve Russell Hotel Golf & Country Club The association is the recognised provider of the for a specialist child care unit and three workspace New Deal scheme in the town. It provides a meals units to encourage and sustain new business on wheels service for the elderly and operates an ventures. With a current annual expenditure of after-school club for four to 11-year-olds in £130,000 (¤189,000), Churchtown Community partnership with the New Opportunity Fund (NOF). Association employs two full-time and five full-time The association co-ordinates its activities with staff, while enjoying the support of a pool of 30 other groups across the border to ensure people local volunteers living in vulnerable conditions are looked after. Paddy Devlin, voluntary chairman and founder It has a long-standing working relationship with member of the association, is confident about the Donegal's Castlefin social services centre. organisation's future. In 2002, the group established a cross-border "The dedication and hard work of the staff – who home safety programme in the rural hinterland are motivated by genuine community development around Castlederg. ideals – will ensure the situation in the area The initiative was launched after a series of improves.” Below: Paddy Devlin, left, in terrifying incidents involving gangs forcing their conversation with retired American Judge way into isolated homes in the area. Andrew Somers. PHOTO:

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TG4-Irish Language Broadcast Fund

Máire Killoran/Micheál Ó Meallaigh

nthusiastic co-operation between Irish language the new relationship. £12 million (¤17.9 million) was set aside Programmes made with the assistance of the fund are television station TG4, headquartered in Connemara, by the British government – which agreed to the new kitty in guaranteed a broadcast platform on TG4 – providing a fillip Eand the recently established Irish Language Broadcast the Good Friday Agreement – to bankroll the fund over its to the Irish language station which also benefited from a Fund in Northern Ireland has transformed the nascent first five years. The fund aims to foster a vibrant Irish pledge in the Good Friday Agreement to ensure its signal Gaeilge film industry north of the border. language production sector in Northern Ireland while making could be received across the North. Co-operation between the Adharca Fada, a comic soap filmed on location in a tangible difference to the lives of Irish language speakers in fund and TG4 is managed by Máire Killoran (above), head of last summer, MPH, a new series for car lovers the North through the provision of relevant and high quality the Irish Language Broadcast Fund, and Micheál Ó Meallaigh and children’s action series Comhraic are just the first fruits of Irish language programming. of TG4.

Patrick Haren

Viridian Group

iridian Group chief executive Patrick Haren's speech, Creating Conditions Vfor an All-island Energy Market, delivered in June 2002 to the Energy Ireland conference in Dublin, is widely cited as the stimulus for the momentous change that has since occurred in the electricity sector. Increasingly, the island's energy businesses had been looking across the border, from both directions, power stations were being built and electricity transmission lines were being commissioned. However, it was Patrick Haren who joined the dots and articulated the logical outcome to all this Managing Partner: Barry McGurgan activity. That just over five years later, in July 2007, the all-island single electricity Northern Ireland, the economic market, will come into being is testament to development agency for Northern Ireland the strength of his vision. and, until recently, a director of the Mr Haren became group chief executive Northern Ireland Memorial Fund. Patrick of Viridian Group following the has also served as chairman of the Northern restructuring of Northern Ireland Ireland Growth Challenge, and of the 26 Darling Street Electricity (NIE) in 1998. He has steered Northern Ireland Quality Centre, which he , Co Fermanagh BT74 7EW the development of the Viridian Group's led through a successful merger to form the diversified business strategy and taken a new Centre for Competitiveness. Tel: 028 66 327160 leading role in calling for an open and The Fermanagh man is uniquely placed email: [email protected] competitive electricity market throughout to see the big picture of the Irish energy Web: www.peterquinn.com Ireland. Viridian has taken a leading market. Prior to joining NIE, he held position in the deregulated and various senior posts with ESB, including Peter Quinn Consultancy competitive market sectors, north and board level responsibility for engineering south. consultancy in the US and UK markets. He Services salutes the As chief executive of NIE since 1992, Mr established an international profile in the Top 50 Cross-Border Haren was responsible for guiding the electricity industry as an active member of Champions being company though privatisation and steering CIGRE in Paris and as a research fellow of it through successive periods of change in CERN, the European Centre for Nuclear honoured by order to create today's top business Research in Geneva. Daily Ireland performance. He is a graduate of Queen's University, on 3 March 2006 He is a member of Board of Invest Belfast, and of University College, Dublin.

Hugo Sweeney

Tyrone-Donegal Partnership

ugo Sweeney’s advice to anybody starting European level as a good practice partnership for out in business is: “God gave you two ears, cross-border development.” Htwo eyes and one mouth to communicate Hugo believes the partnership can make a but don’t just use your mouth. Listen and look at lasting impact. “I would like to be remembered as what your customers’ needs are and respond a good parent, husband and community person accordingly.” with a practical business approach to caring for Hugo is chief executive of the Tyrone-Donegal our region and making new things happen. Partnership (TDP), a cross-border development “I want to help make the Tyrone-Donegal company founded in 1994. It is a non-profit Partnership a recognised centre of excellence in organisation whose aim is to act as a springboard for cross-border development at both economic and the identification, development and implementation social-based programmes. of imaginative cross-border initiatives in the rural “To do this we need to develop a practical model communities of west Tyrone and Donegal. of programme support which will sustain TDP as a Born in in March 1959, Hugo attended dynamic cross-border development and the Christian Brothers primary and grammar consultancy based company,” he says. schools in the town. He started his working life as Among those who nominated Hugo for the Daily an assistant at a market stall at 15 before Ireland-SEUPB cross-border accolade was Jim progressing to run his own stall. Since then, Hugo Lamb of the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh. “Over has gained a HND in Computer Studies, managed a my 15-year association with reconciliation and video/hi-fi retail outlet, been business development cross-border programming, no one has worked manager for the Omagh Enterprise Company and harder, been more focused and provided better headed up the Castlederg Enterprise Company leadership in the cause of cross-border co- before coming on board with the partnership. operation over such an extended period of time,” The Tyrone-Donegal Partnership now has a says the Ireland Institute president. turnover of £1.3 million (¤1.8 million) and a staff “In my role I have worked with and have come of 15 people, 11 full-time and four part-time. Its to know scores of cross-community and cross- mission statement is, “To make a distinctive border professionals. Hugo Sweeney, in my opinion, contribution to the improvement of economic, deserves recognition as one of this sector’s social and environmental conditions in the north- champions.” west border region, and to be recognised at a PHOTO: ULSTER HERALD

Máirín Colleary

Glencree Centre for Reconciliation

ince being established in 1974 in response to police participants from throughout the island can get Northern Ireland’s escalating conflict, the together and discuss issues they have. SGlencree Centre for Reconciliation in Wicklow "The project grew from our victims’ forum, which has strived to offer an alternative approach to was designed to give survivors/victims a voice across intolerance, sectarianism and violence in Irish society. communities and to meet and attempt to understand "We are committed to peace building within and those who perpetrated violence against them," Ms between divided communities ," says the centre's chief Colleary says. executive Máirín Colleary. Since 2003, bi-monthly meetings have been held Ms Colleary was born in Dublin in 1946. She was and the project is scheduled to continue into 2007. educated at St Louis Covent in Rathmines, Dublin, and Another important project has involved dialogue graduated with a philosophy degree from the city's within the main churches in Ireland on how best they Milltown Institute in 1985. can use their influence to bring peace and Convinced of the need for a pluralist society, Mrs reconciliation. The 1998 publication of The Believer's Colleary campaigned to set up Ireland's first multi- Enquiry: Imprisoned Within Structures? prompted denominational primary school, The Dalkey School much debate. Since then, numerous local and Project, in 1977. She was also concerned that people in residential workshops, conferences and meetings with the South should have an informed awareness of the church leaders have taken place at the centre to Northern conflict, prompting her involvement as a discuss the issues raised in the report. council member of the Glencree centre project in 1990. The school/youth peace education programme is the "The centre closed in 1992 and reopened in 1994. longest running, established in 1994, to help young Since then, our staff have engaged in peace and people in the South understand the northern conflict bridge-building work, including programmes of conflict and focus on North-South dialogue. resolution and reconciliation, involving the main Also, political workshops involving politicians from churches, ex-combatants, victims of violence, Ireland and Britain regularly use the centre to schools/youth and women's projects, and local and exchange viewpoints in a way usually impossible international political and civil society groups. outside its walls. Glencree has evolved a way of working which gives The centre employs 12 full-time staff and has 16 participants opportunities to bring their issues to the international and local volunteers. It has an annual fore allowing Glencree to offer a process which may expenditure of around £1 million (¤1.45 million) and is facilitate conflict transformation," she says. funded by various bodies, including the International In 2002, the centre embarked on an ex-combatants’ Fund for Ireland and the European Union. In January it programme, providing an inclusive forum within which received ¤200,000 (£137,000) from the Irish former and current republican, loyalist, military and Department of Foreign Affair's Reconciliation Fund.

Sharon Tracey-Dunne

Cross-Border Orchestra

onceived by schoolteacher Sharon Tracey-Dunne in A unique aspect of the orchestra is that “older” Last November, the orchestra played Carnegie Hall in the wake of the ceasefires, the Cross-Border members coach the newcomers. New York. COrchestra of Ireland has been striking a chord with Lead trumpeter Eugene Monteith (24) says the “The power of the group was incredible, creating an domestic and international audiences for over a decade. orchestra is key to the border area. “It offers children a almost tangible energy in the room,” wrote Bridget English The group brings together 140 youngsters from counties mutual background to get to know one another with no of Irish America magazine. “In that moment, with people Down, Armagh, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and Cavan to stigma attached,” he says. “You aren’t judged on who you of all ages and different backgrounds united as one sound, hone their musical skills while building friendships. are but on how you perform.” it seemed as if anything were possible.”

William Hastings (KPMG). He later graduated with an MSc group. degree at the University of Ulster. "We are due to open the Slieve Donard Hastings Hotel Group In 1989, he took up the position of Resort and Spa in 2006, after spending £15 operations director at Hastings and moved million (¤22.5 million) on improvement he family-owned Hastings hotel chain back to Ireland. Not long afterwards, he work. After that, we plan more bedrooms rolls out the red carpet for thousands progressed to managing director, taking for the Europa and Culloden," Mr Hastings Tof cross-border visitors to its many over from his father and current chairman, says. luxury hotels each year. Dr William Hastings. The company currently enjoys an annual "Our success in this area can be The company has since expanded its turnover of £31 million (¤53 million) with attributed to consistent investment coupled operations and market productivity. The profits of around £3 million (¤4.5 million). with active marketing in the Republic of group currently employs 1,000 full-time and As well as its six hotels in Northern Ireland, Ireland over many years," says managing 500 part-time staff who run its many Hastings Hotels also has an interest in the director Howard Hastings. prestigious hotels. prestigious Merrion Hotel in Dublin – a "The professionalism and friendly The five-star Culloden estate, the world- luxurious city-centre hostelry as famous for welcome of our staff are certainly other famous Europa and the contemporary its contemporary Irish art as its cuisine and factors," he adds. Stormont Hotel in Belfast are among the hospitality. Mr Hastings was born in Belfast in 1962. Hastings portfolio. Billy Hastings – father of Howard – is the After attending Brackenber House The Everglades Hotel in Derry and the founder and chairman of Hastings Hotels preparatory school he entered London's Ballygally Castle Hotel on the Antrim Coast and is often credited with singlehandedly Harrow School and then moved to in Law. Moving to London he qualified as a road, near the tourist hotspot of Giant's keeping the fledgling tourist industry alive Nottingham University, where he graduated chartered accountant with Peak Marwick Causeway, are also part of the Hastings throughout the Troubles.

14 March 2006

Inez McCormack George Newell Jim Gaffney

Ballymacarret Arts and Cultural Society Comharchumann Ghael Tionscal ormer Ictu president, women’s campaigner, peace Traidisiúnta agus Oidhreachta activist and champion of equality Inez McCormack he Ballymacarret Arts and Cultural Society, based Fhas been to the fore in some of the most important in east Belfast, has been pioneering programmes n the Atlantic’s edge, Jim Gaffney and the Tof social and cultural regeneration since 1996. civic battles across Ireland over the past three decades. Comharchumann Ghael Tionscal Traidisiúnta agus Its latest project, A Cultural Experience, aims to OOidhreachta (Irish Traditional Industry and From the early 70s, Inez campaiged on a cross-border basis on key social and equality issues. She secured cross- underpin and develop at least six cultural learning Heritage Co-operative Society) are developing new border consensus on the controversial statutory minimum partnerships between community and youth groups and methods of penetrating the mammoth US market for wage long before it became union policy in Britain and was schools in east Belfast and the border counties. The small craft, fashion and gift businesses in Ireland. a recipient of the prestigious Aisling Person of the Year partnerships are designed to promote participation and The fifty SMEs which came together to form the co- Award in 1999. deliver activities that will address issues arising from op have created a catalogue for the direct-mail market The Belfast-to-Dublin peace train was witness to the the legacy of the conflict in the North. to showcase their wares. legions of women and low-paid workers Inez brought into The Cultural Pathways project has involved young Sales of member products for 2006 are estimated at new territory on marches, demonstrations and lobbies. people from east Belfast and in Donegal being worth ¤4 million (£2.7 million) but that figure is Many workers from the Protestant community in Northern taking part in a range of actvities which encourage expected to rise as they share economies of scale to Ireland first ventured across the border on her delegations participants to explore each other’s cultures. market their wares together. to protest against injustice. But Inez has also played host “The project encourages political and cultural Customers in the US phone a freecall number and are to thousands of trade unionists who have come north to awareness,” says development officer and connected directly to a sales representative at the co-op join her at conferences, rallies and human rights stalwart George Newell. in Fallcarragh, Co Donegal. Among the participating gatherings. “We took 25 young people from east Belfast and businesses are Colmcille Stone Crafts of Derry, Eddie

In 1994, Inez organised the groundbreaking cross- another 25 from Ballybofey and give them the Doherty Knitwear of Kilcar, Co Donegal, Irish Celtic Art border conference – Learning to Disagree – in which old opportunity to meet and participate in the activities of in Co Monaghan and Hataí Pheig in Co Laois. enemies came together to plan a better future. their counterparts. The US subsidiary of the co-op is headed up by She championed the involvement of local communities, “The group from east Belfast visited places like Massachusetts attorney Art McCabe, a veteran advocate and especially women, in the Special EU Peace Programme, Kilmainham Jail in Dublin and took part in the St of regeneration in the North and border areas. “The co- setting up a special training programme for partnership Patrick’s day parade. They were taken to Gaelic and op plays an invaluable role in levelling the economic working. hurling matches and played the sport themselves. playing field for the smaller but vital traditional Irish The Making Woman Seen and Heard campaign she led “They also met with local politicians in Donegal, industries,” says Art. “They are exactly the type of touched women across the 12 northern counties, enabling including Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin councillors who businesses which may not individually have the them to make contact across community, border and fielded 20 questions from them. The young people give marketing and logistical resources neccessary to serve religious barriers. them marks out of ten for their responses, based on how an international marketplace but when brought together As a board member of IntertradeIreland, she continues they managed to relate to them. have a clear opportunity to deliver to the world market.” her pioneering work in favour of an all-island economy. “The group from Ballybofey visited Belfast’s Somme “While the co-op will sell a range of crafts, the As a founder member of the North-South Committee of Centre and took part in the Remembrance Day primary range is fashion and textiles with jewellery and Ictu, she is working to challenge the ‘race to the bottom’ ceremonies. They met with local politicans including gifts as well,” says Jim Gaffney, CEO of the ambitious and to promote social equality and inclusion. DUP councillor Sammy Wilson,” says George. project.

16 March 2006 PARTNERSHIP Mission Statement

“To make a distinctive contribution to the improvement of economic, social and environmental conditions in the Tyrone-Donegal border region and to be recognised at European level as a good practice partnership for cross border development”

Sir George Quigley

Bombardier Aerospace

ir George Quigley's vast experience of the business world has given the current chairman of Bombardier Aerospace NI a unique perspective on Ireland's all-island Seconomy. "As chairman of the , we did 60 per cent of our business in the South," he says. Sir George was also president of the Economic and Social Research Institute and the International Trade Institute of Ireland. A former government advisor to the International Fund for Ireland and former chairman of Co-operation Ireland, he is also chairman of the Board of the Institute of British-Irish Studies at University College Dublin. With an annual turnover of £500 million (¤750 million) and employing some 5,500 people, Bombardier Aerospace NI is a major player in the international market. It also has a significant market in the Republic. "Bombardier Aerospace NI already has a significant supply base on the island of Ireland. It is actively seeking to expand the number of its supplier companies on both sides of the border and to build up relevant business/university linkages island-wide." The company has entered talks with Ireland's fast-growing regional airline Aer Arann over a ¤150 million (£100 million) deal to acquire new aeroplanes. Sir George was born near Moneymore, Co Derry, on November 26, 1929. He attended primary schools in Maghera and Magherafelt, then Dalriada School (Ballymoney) and Ballymena Academy. He graduated from Queen’s University Belfast in 1955 with a first class Honours BA in Modern History. His first job was in the Ministry of Health and Local Government in Stormont as an assistant principal in the Housing Division (1955–58). He remained in the Civil Service until 1988, bowing out as the permanent secretary at the Department of Finance and Personnel (1983–88). In 1988 he joined the Board of Ulster Bank and served as chairman from 1989–2001. Sir George's advice to those in business is sobering: "Don’t skimp the building of solid foundations. Focus on what needs to be got right about the essentials of the business to ensure success. Never underestimate the importance of the human factor and the vital contribution of highly motivated staff. Always look critically at what you’re doing and never become complacent, particularly when things are going well." Married to wife Moyra since 1971, the Co Derry man enjoys walking, reading, gardening, and listening to music.

River Fane Disabled Angling Project An Gaeláras The Galway Hooker Project atering for those with disabilities is something that it is becoming the norm in most sports, that is why three years ago the Dundalk Salmon Anglers he Galway Hooker, a traditional boat scheme, young people from North and CAssociation and the Eastern Region Fisheries Board launched a project to give unique to Ireland, has long been South have the opportunity to experience a Tassociated with the country’s rugged those with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy a spot of angling. Galway boat, An Lady Mór, at first hand on Along the river Fane at Dundalk three stands have been built out into the river as west coast. Passed down from generation Lough Foyle and to gain an understanding part of a three-year programme to refurbish the salmon and sea-trout hatchery. The to generation, the skills involved in making of the traditional skills involved with overall cost of the project has exceeded ¤25,000 (£17,200) and has been funded by the craft have been preserved to the handling the vessel. both the Dundalk Anglers Association and the Eastern Fisheries Board based in Dublin present day and have enabled the Hooker, The Irish language programme brings as well as the European Union. once a working vessel, to be revived as a together people from all parts of Ireland As well as the stands, pathways have been built to allow easy access to a nearby car specialist leisure craft. and is leading the way in the park. The facilities have been designed to cater for wheelchair users and those with An innovative scheme initiated by the redevelopment of Lough Foyle as a key walking difficulties or heart and respiratory problems. Irish Cultural Centre, An Gaeláras in Derry water-activities destination. Meanwhile, the According to Bernard Devaney, chairman of the Dundalk Anglers’ Association, the City, aims to educate young people in Gaeláras, which enjoys close relations with facilities have proved to be very popular: “It’s one of the only facilities of its kind in the seafaring techniques by bringing a Galway University College Galway, will also be country but catering for disabilities is becoming a big part of angling clubs across Hooker to their own shore. hosting the annual Irish language festival Ireland.” Through the Óige ar an Fharraige An tOireachtas in Derry this November.

18 March 2006

Siobhán Fitzpatrick

Nippa - the Early Years Organisation

ippa - Northern Ireland’s biggest childcare organisation – has been Ndeveloping an effective cross-border range of activities in partnership with some 200 childcare providers in the Republic. One initiative that has achieved great success since being established in 2003 has been between Nippa and the Border Counties Childcare Network Training Project. "Our high-scope training programme delivers specialist training to childcare practitioners wishing to improve their knowledge and skills in managing services and to work with children who have special needs,” says group co-ordinator Siobhán Fitzpatrick. "Training for childcare practitioners has improved their capacity to deliver training to a variety of participants in various areas.” The recent project stems from a long-running engagement by Nippa with childcare groups around the border region. "We built a number of strong relationships with people along the border after the 1998 peace accord, particularly through our cross-border rural action programme," says Siobhán. IT software programme designed to respecting racial, cultural and physical providers in the South. Siobhán has had a "We developed a child day-care centre in manage childcare networks and service difference. "With multiculturalism in both 20-year association with Nippa and was Belleek, delivering services to parents in provision. A new website is also being parts of the island increasing, the need to appointed chief executive of the group in and the border hinterland. A designed, acting as a informative platform educate children on respect for diversity is 1996. A native of , she graduated childcare network was established in for education and advice. important throughout," Siobhán says. from Queen’s University Belfast in 1975 Clogher Valley which extended its services Its Respecting Difference project Nippa currently employs 110 people in with a degree in social sciences before as far as Manorhamilton," she adds. provides training and support for 80 the North and four in the South. It works doing a master's degree at University of The group has recently introduced a new groups teaching young children the value of with 1,200 providers in the North and 200 Ulster. She lives in Carlingford, Co Louth. tri:mobile 6 MONTHS 1/2 PRICE LINE RENTAL *

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Atlantic Drift

he northwest’s natural beauty continues to attract growing numbers of visitors but linking the Causeway to Donegal Toffered an opportunity to boost tourism in the region. Two years ago, and Limavady Borough Council joined forces to launch the Atlantic Drift Cross -Border Tourism Marketing Support Programme – a project aimed at boosting the ferry connection between Magilligan in Derry and Greencastle in Donegal. "The aim of the project is to secure the long-term viability of the ferry service as a catalyst for wider tourism growth by attracting increasing numbers of tourists to the region and facilitating their dispersal to the many attractions on both sides of the border," explains Donegal community service marketing executive Kevin O'Connor. Ferry passengers are encouraged to explore a number of touring routes between the Giant’s Causeway, Limavady and the Roe Valley – even as far as making a second sea journey to visit . Last summer, the number of passengers using the Donegal- Derry ferry passed the one million mark. A shelter at the ferry terminal at Greencastle has now been completed while signage along the route will be completed by May this year. The signs will include information on the routes and the points of local and historical interest. The project cost ¤620,000 (£413,000) in European Union support with some of the grant assistance going towards a dynamic marketing campaign. The marketing project has been spearheaded by a partnership bringing together North-West Tourism, the Lough Folye Ferry Company, Údarás na Gaeltachta and the Department of Community, Rural and Affairs.

Oyster Farmers of Carlingford

n September 2005 a cross-border collaboration between two shellfish businesses was established to Idevelop sustainable oyster farming in by introducing an innovative aquaculture strategy. Mourne Shellfish Ltd in , Co Down, and Cloughmore Shellfish in Dundalk, Co Louth, have teamed up with the Centre for Marine Resources (C-Mar) at Queen’s University, based at , Co Down, and the Cross-Border Aquaculture Initiative (CBAIT) to ensure the success of the project. A nursery system supplying oyster seeds to growers in Carlingford and a sub-tidal oyster farming enterprise in the lough are the objectives of the partnership. “We had been growing oysters and supplying them to the market place for ten years,” says Bob Coubrey, director of Mourne Shellfish Ltd. “Seeds were imported from the UK. However, because we could not import small, inexpensive seeds because they wouldn’t survive the journey, we needed to buy larger, more expensive seeds. “I had a business relationship with Cloughmore Shellfish, who supplied mussels to my restaurant, the Mourne Seafood Bar, in Dundrum. “I found out that Cloughmore had excess capacity on their Carlingford farm and a business plan was drawn up between us to make use of it,” Bob says. The two companies agreed to establish an onshore nursery cultivation facility at a disused sand quarry in Kilkeel. “The quarry will be flooded with seawater and the necessary infrastructure set in place after we secure seeds. Five million will be used in Carlingford Lough, will strengthen the indigenous oyster and shellfish planning consent and an aquaculture licence,” Bob says. while the remaining seeds will be used to supply growers industry, create local employment and help the two This will involve consultancy input from British-based in Donegal and other parts of Ireland. companies cut costs, making them more competitive in Guernsey Sea Farms Ltd and research and checks by C- This will see production at the companies’ two sites in the global market place. Mar on water quality parameters and enrichment diets Omeath and Ballyedmond expand by 50 per cent. Existing With a total cost of ¤810,000 (£556,000), the project for nursery production. methods of mussel and oyster cultivation at both sites was part-funded by the European Union’s Interreg III, to Once in operation, the facility will produce ten million will be enhanced by a new elevator system. The project the sum of ¤425,000 (£292,000).

20 March 2006

Andy Pollak approach, bringing together sources of energy on both sides of the border that used to be back-to-back but are Centre for Cross-Border Studies now in an extraordinary dialogue.” In the same month, described the work he Centre for Cross-Border Studies was founded of the centre as valuable. in September 1999 and is based in Dublin and “It has carved out a very useful role in complementing TArmagh. the work of the North-South institutions and has served Its remit is to research and develop co-operation as an interface between the public sector and non- across the country in the areas of education, training, governmental practitioners.” health, business, public administration, communications, Andy explains: “Among other things, we set up the agriculture and the environment. first all-Ireland training course for civil servants since Currently it employs six full-time staff. partition. Two have taken place so far and we are According to the centre’s director, Andy Pollak, the planning more for the near future. Cross-Border Studies project was set up in the spirit of “The centre has also put in place education projects the Good Friday Agreement. for pre-school, primary and third level students. These “A number of people involved in further and higher have focused on environmental studies, science and education who wanted to make a contribution to the citizenship and diversity and conflict. peace process came together for the project. We gained “The centre will also be doing a report on racism and initial support from Queen’s University in Belfast, Dublin sectarianism focusing on the border area and county City University and the Workers’ Educational Association Antrim. We picked County Antrim deliberately as we in the North. want to include unionist and Protestant people as much “As well as developing ideas for North-South co- as possible.” operation, we have also taken on the management of a Andy believes that the restoration of the power- number of North-South bodies, including Universities sharing institutions would provide a boost for the work Ireland and the Standing Conference on Teacher of the Cross Border group. Education North and South.” “At the minute it’s much easier in the South because Andy is extremely proud of the centre’s achievements we are dealing with a national government. It’s more to date and he’s not the only one. An Taoiseach Bertie difficult in the North with everything in suspension and Ahern and President Mary McAleese have been among our job would be made a lot easier if the institutions those who have heaped praise on the centre in the past. were up and running. Speaking in February 2005, President McAleese said “But we still do a lot of work with Assembly members the centre “always takes a very fresh and innovative from all of the parties.”

Savina Donohoe both museums have won awards for their work in cultural diversity. The yearly expenditure on the Connecting Peoples, Places and Heritage project is approximately ¤150,000 (£102,000) which has been funded by Peace II grants. onnecting Peoples, Places and Heritage is a “We believe that if we educate the children then crossborder schools and youth project run by it will have a knock-on effect, and that they will CCavan and Fermanagh county museums in have a healthy opinion of the border areas,” association with schools and other education enthuses Savina Donohoe. providers. Under the guidance of two outreach workers, Since it started in October 2004, the project has over 600 children from 20 different schools and developed an innovative programme of cross-border youth clubs have availed of the project which exchanges involving young people, teachers and includes six heritage trails. youth leaders to address the need for increased “The project is going well and it is very busy. This awareness and appreciation of shared heritage and week we have three schools from the South and traditions. next week we will have three schools from the The project aims to support mutual North participating in it. It has been a lot of extra understanding while making a substantial work but we find it very rewarding,” says Savina. contribution to building peace and reconciliation in Should future funding be secured, the organisers the Cavan/Fermanagh region by working on both a are sure that the project will continue to be a cross-border and cross-community basis. success. Connecting Peoples, Places and Heritage is “If we manage to secure two further years of organised by the manager of the County Museum in funding, and I really hope we do, we will target Cavan, Savina Donohoe, and the manager of work with adult groups as well because we see a Fermanagh County Museum, Bronagh Cleary, and real need for that,” adds Savina.

Moyle-Nenagh Council This year will see the launch of one of the most innovative and ambitious projects embarked upon so Twinning far when schools from both Nenagh and Moyle take part in an up-to-date pen pal scheme using email and he link between the two authorities, Nenagh video chatrooms. Urban Council in Co Tipperary and Moyle “This is a crucial period for Nenagh and Moyle TDistrict Council from Co Antrim, was communities from the point of view of broadening established in the early 1980s and has flourished over young minds, breaking down social and cultural the years. barriers and giving our children, who are our future, a “We have so much in common in tourism, in better understanding of the island they live on,” says agriculture and in the environment and I would hope Moyle District Council chairman Oliver McMullan to see this friendship develop into myriad (left). opportunities for both North and South and that we The partners in this cross-border alliance plan to open up channels that never before were opened,” develop programmes and projects – not least in the said former chairman of Nenagh Council, Jimmy areas of economic development and tourism – which Moran, when he hosted one of the first visits by will benefit both communities and strengthen the representatives of Moyle Council. links between them in the years to come.

March 2006 21

Jimmy Monaghan The Rural Men’s Project

Young Farmers’ Cross-Border Programme North Leitrim Men’s Group Family Farm Development Limited he Rural Men’s Project has been run by the North Leitrim Men’s Group in stablished in March 2004, the Young Farmers’ Cross-Border Diversification and partnership with Fermanagh College since 2004. The programme was designed Tto promote the training of unemployed men in disadvantaged rural areas of Networking Programme has helped to improve cross-border collaboration between Efarmers while developing new enterprises in farms. Leitrim and Fermanagh and to encourage them to find work. The Family Farm Development Ltd has delivered the programme to members in counties “We started as a support group for single, isolated men living in rural areas of Tyrone, Fermanagh and Armagh in the North, and counties Donegal, Leitrim, Cavan and Leitrim and Fermanagh in 1996,” explains project co-ordinator Pat Love. “After a Monaghan in the South. period we widened our scope to include the long-term unemployed in disadvantaged “In early 2005, we were asked by our partners to extend the project to include counties rural areas. Antrim, Down, , Louth and Magherafelt District Council area,” says project manager “We had delivered Fás community and employment schemes in Leitrim already, Jimmy Monaghan. The project has succeeded in facilitating the training of participant mainly dealing with foundational needs of literacy and other areas. But we wanted to farmers in the preparation of business plans. Farmers were then able to submit their own expand on this towards greater training aspirations.” plans for diversification projects to a selection process. Pat says the group approached Fermanagh College to provide the training. To date, Family Farm Development has issued approximately 150 letters to successful “We spoke with the resident community development officer at the College who candidates, offering a maximum of ¤14,500 (£9,900) and up to 75 per cent funding for liaised with groups and individuals to ascertain how best the college could projects. The total annual budget allocation for the projects is approximately ¤2 million accommodate local needs. Afterwards, their consultant, Brian Walsh, helped draw up (£1,366,000). the application for funding. The project is directed by a steering committee of members of the four main farming “Without the college’s pro-active help, the project wouldn’t have got off the unions – the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU); the Northern Ireland Agricultural Producers’ ground.” Association (NIAPA); the Irish Farmers’ Association and the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers’ Over 120 men from both sides of the border area have now signed up to various Association. Also involved are the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster and Irish agricultural courses at the college, thanks to the project. The courses have allowed the men to group Macra na Feirme. acquire computer, literacy, carpentry and construction skills. The programme is funded by the EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation, the Funding for The Rural Men’s Project is scheduled to run out this year. However, a Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the North, the Department of Fermanagh men’s group is currently being established and will continue to deliver Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in the South and development body Border Action. similar services and support for men on both sides of the border.

Adrian Bradley

Biznet Solutions

drian Bradley has come a long way since he and with one computer and a moody laptop. There are now evolve in line with the business and I now carry out a his friend Daryl Fullerton set up shop in the 57 people in the business. lot of consultancy work while also overseeing the Aback bedroom of a Belfast flat. “We are headquartered in Belfast, with a further running of my division within the business.” Founded in November 1997, Biznet Solutions is a office in Derry, where we have a team of ten people. In Although he is completely devoted to the Biznet company that “aims to empower organisations through Houston, Texas, we have a team of five people and a project, Adrian explained that he still finds time to providing a selection of best of breed systems, solutions regional development centre in Blacklion, Co Cavan. We relax. and e-services, which enhance, integrate and streamline also have a business development office in Dublin.” “My favourite book is It’s Not About The Bike by the organisations’ business processes”. As well as having operations on both sides of the Lance Armstrong. It shows how events, good and bad, Enniskillen man Adrian studied design at the border, Adrian has played a lead role in developing the can shape our lives.” University of Ulster. websites of some of Ireland’s most prestigious all- His pearl of business wisdom: “Approach everything “My first ever job was as a barman and waiter at the island operations. with a healthy level of optimism and naivety because if Manor House Hotel in Killadeas in Fermanagh,” he says Last month, Waterways Ireland, a cross-border body you fully understand all the time what you’re getting “On finishing my design degree, I secured a job as a formed under the Good Friday Agreement, launched its yourself into you would never take risks. Treat people, designer at Makem Design in Belfast. It was a small new Biznet-designed website. whether clients or employees, the way you would like company and we specialised in interior architecture The role of Biznet has changed dramatically in the to be treated yourself – there’s a lot to be said for and shop fitting.” last eight years. being honest and forthright with people.” Despite enjoying the creative side of the design “We started out building standard web sites. industry, Adrian returned to university to undertake an However, we now develop, deploy and maintain serious Clicks and mortar: Adrian Bradley of Biznet, MSc in computing and information systems, which business applications that are web-based. We work for above right, with Jonathan Knight of extreme sparked his plans for Biznet. organisations such as Tourism Ireland, Waterways sports component company Red Raven who “Myself and Daryl Fullerton founded Biznet on the Ireland, Fine Gael, BP, Shell and the NI Water Service won the Shell Livewire Young Entrepreneur of completion of our MSc courses. We initially started the to name but a few. the Year competition last year. Biznet designed business in the back bedroom of my flat in Finaghy “Obviously, our roles and responsibilities have had to Red Raven’s e-business site.

Feargal McCormack

eargal McCormack is managing the business since its inception in 1991. our planet,” says the head of the 44- Ireland." partner of FPM Chartered “From the outset, we sought to attract, person, Investors in People-accredited FPM has a paricular niche for itself in FAccountants, located in Newry, develop and reward the very best talent to firm. advising businesses on cross-border trade Dungannon and Dundalk, which specialise ensure our business and our clients’ future From its suberbly-restored Dromalane and tax issues. "We work with companies in cross-border business. success,” explains Feargal. Mill building in Newry, FPM has seized the going south from the North and vice He is a member of the Board of Equity FPM prides itself on its visionary and opportunities presented by the Republic’s versa," says Feargal McCormack Network and was the chairman of the innovative culture. “We will continue to booming economy. FPM has picked up a number of awards Ulster Society of Chartered Accountants create an environment among Team FPM “Less than 20 per cent of our business in the past year and more. It won the top (2002/3) and is a board member of members of energy, drive, enthusiasm, these days comes from the Newry area,” title at the Newry Business Awards, and IntertradeIreland. excitement, passion and ambition, in order says Feargal. “The Republic accounts for went on to take the SME Business of the As managing partner of FPM, Feargal to stimulate team spirit, community spirit, 22 per cent and the rest is either from Year title at last year's has had lead responsibility for developing spirit for our island and indeed passion for different parts of the North or outside of Business Awards.

March 2006 23

Dunfield

infield’s European Cup clash with Dundalk FC in 1979 programme with a full-time administrator and in tandem with The main goal of this exciting cross-border link is to impart was a stark reminder that sport and politics were a his Dundalk counterpart, Edwin De Roever, explained how the an attitude of respect and understanding to the young Lcombustible mix. It was the horrendous scenes of project came about. players. crowd violence experienced in the so-called Battle of Dundalk “The clubs felt there was a real opportunity to get together ‘‘Obviously the Troubles have taken over 300 years and which prompted the two sides to look at developing friendlier in 1999 and form a partnership,” he said. “It was funded by we’re not going to reverse attitudes in six,” says David, “but relations. Co-operation Ireland from money that comes from the EU we do our little bit. There’s still a lot of work to be done. However, against the backdrop of the Troubles, it took all Peace and Reconciliation Programme.” “There’s a lot of mistrust and many hidden agendas with of 20 years and the end of civil unrest before Dunfield was Although it caters for a wide age range, there is one age people who want to keep the pot boiling. born. group which is of particular interest to Dunfield. “We want the kids to think for themselves a bit more and The project, which brings together young people aged from “12-14-year-olds are the big target group for us, because to not let outside influences take over.” seven to 18, aims to foster good relations and a better to go into areas of Belfast where there are deep-rooted Dunfield’s funding has been cut in recent years in line with understanding through winter training camps, regular problems and take out a group of 15-year-olds, who are the drop in EU aid to Northern Ireland and the border matches and also conflict resolution programmes. probably already influenced by their community, simply counties. “Our programme was unique and so we got a big The link has seen the two clubs also join up with other doesn’t work. slice of the cake here for years but now there are other local organisations during the year for tournaments and “The amount of peer pressure is unbelievable. Dundalk schemes like ours being developed,” adds David. camps, resulting in a strong participation from young people. mightn’t have suffered as much from the Troubles but it is “However we’re really happy with the way it has gone and Dunfield co-ordinator David Chisholm, who oversees the also socially deprived in a lot of ways.” we’d love to see more of these partnerships spread.”

Book online at: aerarann.com

BELFAST Save time, fly to

CORK 0818 210 210 ROI 0800 587 23 24 UK Rally Ireland

Motorsport Ireland and the Association of NI Car Clubs

ally Ireland will be aiming to secure WRC (World with its main sponsors being Fáilte Ireland and the 20,000 bed nights, this would translate into direct Rally Championship) status at their annual show- Northern Ireland Events Company (NIEC). Fáilte expenditure by visitors in the region of ¤12 million Rpiece event being staged this year from March Ireland’s support is provided through the International (£8.2 million). We can also add to that, the indirect 10-12 in counties Donegal, Fermanagh, Leitrim, Sligo Sports Tourism Initiative, and is designed to attract benefits of global exposure to an audience of over 770 and Tyrone. major international sporting events to Ireland with million and growing and the true benefit is likely to be This year’s event is critical as Rally Ireland will tourism potential. NIEC seeks to support the promotion closer to the figure of ¤29 million (£19.8 million) per undergo the FIA (global governing authority) of major events in Northern Ireland which have the year.” qualification process for WRC inclusion. It is important potential to impact positively on the image and Irish racing ace Eddie Irvine has backed Ireland’s bid that all elements in the running and presentation of the economy of the country. to host a round of the WRC from 2007. The former event leave a lasting impression on the officials, as New research conducted by the Institute of Ferrari Formula One driver believes Rally Ireland stands Rally Ireland face stiff competition from Jordan, Technology, Sligo, and the University of Ulster found a real chance of securing a place on the WRC calendar. Poland, Portugal, South Africa and New York. that Rally Ireland 2005 generated an economic benefit “I fully support the Rally Ireland bid. It would be great Rally Ireland is the most ambitious sporting project of over ¤2.4 million (£1.6 million) during its pilot event for Irish motorsport fans and rally drivers to have a on the island of Ireland. It is managed on a day-to-day last October. The event generated an average spend per world-class motorsport event in Ireland. We have a basis by Sean O’Connor and Ronan Morgan. The pair person of over ¤105 (£72) and created over 4,600 bed great motorsport heritage and skills base in Ireland,” has over 35 years’ WRC experience between them. nights for the northwest region. Organisers of the Irvine said. Charged with developing the event is a steering event say that a WRC event could have benefits worth Top WRC driver, the Australian Chris Atkinson, has committee chaired by Austin Frazer that includes over ¤20 million (£14 million) per year to the economy. been confirmed as an entry in the upcoming event. The representatives of Motorsport Ireland and the Sean O’Connor, co-promoter of Rally Ireland said: 26-year-old currently lies sixth in the WRC standings Association of Northern Ireland Car Clubs. “When we consider that a round of WRC series will and is expected to be joined in the event by other top Rally Ireland is essentially a cross-border operation attract 100,000 live spectators and a minimum of drivers next week.

Paul McCormack

Border Vision

order Vision offers management and executive dynamism, particularly through joint tendering, million (¤8.25 million). Border Vision also stages an support to a growing cluster of cross-border marketing and purchasing. annual trade export meeting, bringing together Bcompanies, enabling them to come together and “The clusters’ aim is to harness and strengthen the businesses, identifying areas of mutual benefit and compete in a global market. combined expertise of members and provide industry forging partnership links throughout the island. “There are many specialist companies operating with a unique expertise and capacity on natural The group’s management compromises two chief around the Louth, Newry and Armagh areas, which resources and environmental issues,” Paul says. executives of partner agencies from Mourne and Newry offer good specialist services,” explains Border Vision The ETC cluster includes 15 groups operating around Enterprise Agency and Enterprise Board. manager, Paul McCormack. the Louth-Armagh border specialising in waste water A steering board, which includes several other “However, individually, they don’t hit the minimium services, bio-remediation, testing and analysis, waste development and educational institutions on both sides turnover threshold to compete with multinationals for management and environmental consultancy. It of the border, creates further synergies. big contracts. Coming together in partnership offers employs 300 people and has a collective annual An engineer by profession, Paul McCormack has over the opportunity to do so. And once this happens, it also turnover of ¤51 million (£34 million). 20 years’ experience within global manufacturing, acts as a magnet for foreign capital investment in the “We also strive to make the most of geographical engineering, software and environmental industries. A area.” The group works with two business clusters: the location in terms of business opportunities – the border dynamic entrepreneur Paul is also a past DTI SMART Environmental Technologies Cluster (ETC), and the New is not an impediment,” Paul adds. Award recipient, holds several international patents and Emerging Technology Cluster (NETC). Both aim at The NETC cluster involves 12 businesses, employing was the first Northern Ireland National Endowment for realising collective strength and increased market 110 people and enjoys an annual turnover of £5.5 Science Technology and the Arts (NESTA) recipient.

March 2006 25

Micheál Ó Callaráin

Aer Arann

er Arann’s Belfast-Cork route, launched in Vienna. Connemara-basd Ó Céidigh, who last year March 2004, has boosted cultural, addressed a seminar for social entrepreneurs in Asporting and tourism links between the west Belfast, sums up his business philosophy two cities. with the quote (sometimes attributed to The City of Belfast Airport service also Michelangelo): “The greater danger for most of us provides a business lifeline to those doing is not that our aim is too high and we miss it but business in both cities and proved a hit during that it is too low and we reach it.” 2005 when Cork enjoyed the European Capital Responsible for marketing Aer Arann’s of Culture accolade. extensive operations – which now take it to From humble beginnings as an island-hopping Continental Europe and Britain – is UCG graduate service off the west of Ireland, Aer Arann now Micheál Ó Callaráin, who is no stranger to great carries one million passengers per annum. heights: he was a member of the Galway football For driving forward his regional airline, Aer side which lifted the All-Ireland in 2001. Arann owner Pádraig Ó Céidigh was named Ernst Over 80,000 passengers have used the Aer & Young Irish Entrepreneur of the Year in 2002 Arann Cork-Belfast route since it launched. With and represented Ireland at the European two flights per day, it enables business people to Entrepreneur of the Year competition in Monaco attend a meeting in one city and return to the the following year. In 2004, the airline picked up other on the same day. the prestigious European Regions Airline In November 2005, Aer Arann extended its Association Bronze Award at a ceremony in service to a Sunday to facilitate leisure travellers.

Séamus and Deirdre Mac Cathmhaoil

Rí Na Mara

hortly after taking up a Bord Iascaigh Mhara ( Fisheries Board) acquaculture development course in S2001, Séamus Mac Cathmhaoil and wife Deirdre embarked on an exploration of seaweed and its use in cosmetic skincare products. After visiting producers in Brittany, France, Spain and Italy, the couple were convinced they could set up a similar operation in their home town of An Spideál in the Connemara Gaeltacht. “It became clear that all the species of seaweeds used in their products were found in abundance in the west of Ireland,” says Séamus. Afterwards, Deirdre completed a diploma in cosmetic science at Leicester’s De Montford University and became a member of Ireland’s Society of Cosmetic Scientists. She worked closely with Galway University during the research and development stage of the new business. The end result was an impressive range of skincare products, including face-masks, face and body creams, shower gels and foaming bath salts. Operating since 2001, Rí Na Mara, Irish for “King of the Sea”, exports its products to Canada, Turkey, Pakistan, Continental Europe and Britain. The company currently supplies over 300 outlets throughout Ireland, including the Body Shop chain. Rí Na Mara received a feasibility grant from Údarás na Gaeltachta in 2002 and a marketing investment grant from Bord Iascaigh Mhara in 2004. Currently employing 12 staff, the company continues to source more domestic and international suppliers, while investing in further research and development to enhance the products’ beneficial properties and market value. Séamus and Deirdre are natives of Coalisland, Co Tyrone. “Rí Na Mara offers a project on which to focus long term,” Seamus says. “We have invested heavily in getting the product to this stage and have insisted, every step of the way, on quality and excellence in everything from production to marketing. At Christmas, we got an early-morning slot on TV3 and it resulted in a surge in phone orders so we know there’s a considerable market out there to tap.” Deirdre and Séamus moved to An Spidéal during the early 1990s, drawn by a love of the Irish language and the surrounding countryside. An avid follower of traditional music, Séamus is a fluent Irish speaker and a champion bodhrán player.

26 March 2006

Bridie Sweeney

The Riverbrooke Cross-Border Project

he Riverbrooke project sprang from a ten-year association between retreats where they involve themselves in outdoor activities as a means of communities in Riverstown, Co Sligo and Brookeborough, Co Fermanagh and building trust and friendship.” Treflected a mutual desire to build a relationship of understanding and trust. The Riverbrooke initiative has left a number of tangible symbols of reconciliation After it received support from the European Union’s Peace II in 2002, the within the communities, including commemorative plaques, wild flower and project formalised existing activities established by Brookeborough Community butterfly gardens and dry stonewalls. Winner of the Fermanagh Rural Community Development Association and Riverstown Enterprise Development Ltd. Network’s Celebrating Community Achievement Awards, the project has brought “Riverstown and Brookeborough have a lot in common, particularly in terms of together the Orange Grand Master of Fermanagh and a former GAA president to the religious profile in each town,” says project co-ordinator Bridie Sweeney discuss issues of cultural reconciliation with members of the Riverbrooke (above). management committee. Riverbrooke women’s project holds regular cross-border The project aims to increase community participation, particularly by developing meetings to discuss issues of equity and community development. links between schools and pupils from each area. A number of exchange Over 100 people took part in a joint project to record the history of Riverstown programmes and residential trips designed to explore and compare cultural and Brookeborough last year, resulting in the publication of two history books. experiences – with participants of all ages – have taken place. To celebrate ten years in existence, the Riverbrooke project is organising a “Our cross-border exchanges are mainly focused around environmental special two-day international conference in March. “The conference will focus on issues and involve seven primary schools,” says Bridie. “Older pupils have peace building and reconciliation and will include speakers from the Balkans and engaged in school debates with their opposite numbers to discuss various South Africa who will share their experiences of conflict and community issues, including racism and pluralism. They are also brought on residential reconciliation,” adds Bridie.

PREP Project Cllr Thomas O’Reilly, Chairman

he PREP Project is a programme of the Educational Trust, an all-Ireland Clones-Erne East Partnership charitable trust providing support for ex-prisoners, ex-offenders and Ttheir immediate families who wish to make progress in education or stablished in 2003, the Clones-Erne East Partnership co-ordinates the training. regeneration projects of , Clones Town Council The trust is a funder of last resort – without its help many individuals Eand Fermanagh District Council. would have difficulty in being able to participate in learning. "During 2001, a series of informal meetings of councillors took place to Since 2003, the trust has helped over 500 people take part in a range of explore ways of developing a strategic approach to developing the geographical courses – from Junior Certificate and GCSE to postgraduate work, driving area we all shared,” explains Clones Town Councillor Pat Treanor. lessons and professional qualifications. “Two-thirds of Clones' hinterland is in Fermanagh and for years border roads Organisations represented as board members of the Trust are Niacro, were closed which badly affected local business and damaged much of the PACCE, FÁS, Prison Education, the Probation and Welfare Service, Open area's social infrastructure." University, ExPac, Epic, and Coiste na nIarchimí. Councillor Treanor says the partnership wanted to repair and enhance the The work of the trust is a true cross-border partnership, with all decisions weakened infrastructure and change the area’s image in order to attract being taken by the board. "The significance of our work within the investment and enterprise. The partnership committee meets once a month, Educational Trust and the PREP Project is that we offer a service across the with the various sub-committees meeting more regularly. There is also a strong island, providing opportunities and support to ex-prisoners and their families social dimension to its agenda. A Social History Collective, made up of mainly to gain access to education,” says Fiona McLaughlin, PREP Project co- older people in the region meets regularly to discuss the past and prospects for ordinator. the future. The partnership committee has also co-opted local youth and "We continue to hold workshops and carry out research to identify the community groups so that they may represent their interests when deciding barriers to educational advancement facing ex-prisoners," she adds. policy and future investment initiatives.

March 2006 27

Micheál Greenan CAWT - Co-operation and Working Together

Ulster GAA ithin the public sector, CAWT has been a pioneer in developing cross-border linkages between the health and social care sector on both sides of the ne of the oldest cross-border bodies in existence is the Gaelic Athletic Association. Wborder. CAWT is the acronym for Co-operation and Working Together, a The GAA can claim this accolade precisely because it was created before the cross-border healthcare initiative initiated in 1992 with the signing of the ‘Ballyconnell Opolitical border on this island came into existence. It is governed by four separate Agreement’ between the North Eastern and North Western Health Boards in the provincial bodies: Ulster, Munster, and Connacht. Republic and the Southern and Western Health and Social Services Boards in the Yet it is the Ulster Council, which straddles the political border, that perfectly epitomises North. Prior to this, cross-border activity in health and social care was largely informal. the cross-border credo of the GAA. Its conception arose from a mutual recognition that, in addition to possessing a For the Ulster Council to govern properly, it must treat the nine counties in its remit as a common demographic profile, the region in both jurisdictions shared specific problems, whole, even though Cavan, Monaghan and Donegal exist as counties in the Republic of including high levels of poverty, isolation and peripherality. Ireland. President of the Ulster Council Micheál Greenan explained that this has been part Within health and social care, it was felt that these would be best tackled through of the GAA's credo since its humble beginnings. identifying and exploiting opportunities to work together in order to improve the "From the inception of the GAA until the present, the GAA has been an all-Ireland body health and social well-being of the border populations. These shared problems and working to lift the morale of the nation by promoting a sense of identity among all our similar vision enabled cross-border health and social care activity to thrive. people," he said. "The association spread throughout the country like a prairie fire and the CAWT provides a forum for the management and staff of the health boards, legacy of our founding fathers is still very vibrant today. authorities and trusts to come together via cross-border working groups (sub-groups). "The foundation of the provincial councils took place between 1900 and 1903 when These sub-groups plan practical activities including research, feasibility studies, needs Ulster became the last to be formed, it has from that time to the present represented the assessment and piloting cross-border services. The sub-groups have initiated and nine counties in developing our games culture and past times." developed a range of projects, many of which have been successful in attracting Micheál Greenan is appreciative of the hard work that has been carried out to ensure European funding via the EU Programme for Peace & Reconciliation (PEACE II) or the success of the Ulster Council. INTERREG IIIA. Over 200 people are engaged in CAWT cross-border sub-groups. "When the political partition occurred the Ulster council automatically became one of The Sail of Papenburg Award to Colm Donaghy , Chief Executive of CAWT (above, the first cross-border bodies and worked diligently to ensure that all programmes, games right, with Pat Colgan of SEUPB), in 2005 for cross-border achievement is a further and developments were fair and consistent throughout the province,” he said. endorsement from Europe of the group’s work.

INTERREG Cross-Border Partnerships Trauma Recovery Network

he way in which the Special EU Programmes Body administers EU funding he Trauma Recovery Network (TRN) is a regional network offering cross-sector throughout Northern Ireland and the border region of Ireland is unique and advocacy and support to groups working with victims and survivors of the conflict Tinnovative and centres on creating and sustaining successful partnerships. Tand those working to address the impact of trauma. Experience over a number of years managing EU funding has shown that multi-level TRN works in the areas of organisational development networking and information partnerships can be created and sustained by balancing central government and local exchange and policy/lobbying. community involvement. Through partnerships made up of central and local TRN was established June 2004 at a Derry-based seminar. government, local strategic partnerships, social partners, task forces and funding Its founding membership is made up of diverse organisations, ranging from local agents, diverse opinions and agendas can be brought together. community projects to regional service providers from a cross-sector background. Centralised and decentralised partnerships allows the targeting of funding to be "We are a regional network aiming to offer cross-sector advocacy and support to groups tailored and prioritised. Through the INTERREG IIIA Programme, partnerships have of victims and survivors from Northern Ireland's political conflict and to those working created lasting and sustainable cross-border relationships and have greatly improved with the impact of trauma, through a partnership and community development mode," says the economic and social landscape of Northern Ireland and the border region of co-ordinator Paula Beattie. Ireland. "So far we have held three information and planning sessions attended by 50 group The regional partnerships have provided platforms which allow people to find representatives. common ground with their neighbours, to create economic opportunities and to work To date, TRN has been broadly welcomed as an independent dialogue forum and a together across borders. The EU has greatly assisted Northern Ireland and the border potential bridgemaker between the sector and policymakers. region of Ireland in fostering relationships, creating participation and stimulating “A clear agenda for activities is emerging including information sharing and networking; consultation and the many partnerships created through the work of EU funding will a newsletter and website; lobbying; and organisational development," says Ms Beattie. benefit the region for many years to come. Some of the outcomes of the INTERREG TRN is funded by the European Union through the Community Foundation for Northern cross-border partnerships have been nominated for this celebration of achievement. Ireland.

28 March 2006

Seán Quinn

The Quinn Group

ne of Ireland’s most-respected Cavan. Meanwhile, Quinn Direct Insurance has entrepreneurs, Seán Quinn has built up a transformed the entire Irish insurance industry. Obusiness conglomerate which serves as a “Our commitment to our workforce is equalled role model for cross-border enterprise. only by our commitment to customers,” says a From humble beginnings in the townland of Quinn Group spokesperson. “The group sees the Teemore, south Fermanagh, Seán Quinn took his development of a highly-skilled and motivated first step towards the billion-euro business he workforce as vital to its continued success. The heads today in 1973 when he borrowed £100, Group’s philosophy is to invest in the people who extracted gravel from his farm in Fermanagh, make us what we are.” As well as cement, glass washed it and sold it to local builders. Since then, and insurance operations in Cavan and as the Sunday reported: “He has Fermanagh, the Group’s runs the Slieve Russell shown a remarkable ability to turn just about any Hotel in Co Cavan and several public houses and raw material he extracts from the earth into hard hotels in Dublin. cash.” Away from the border region, the group is Yet, during the 1970s and 1980s, trade continuing to build on its success over the last 33 between north and south was a lot more difficult years with new initiatives taking the group to new to conduct, mainly as a result of a geographies and emerging economies. The group checkpoint on the southern side of Derrylin and is working on the development of a major new customs controls. The withdrawl of border radiator plant in Newport, Wales, and the controls helped remove this obstacle to business recently-announced Methalmethacrylyte (MMA) development, the border checkpoint is now gone, plant in Leuna, Germany. In 2004, the Group and the Quinn Group has never looked back. Today bought the Hilton Prague and is completing the it employs over 2,700 people in Fermanagh and purchase of the Hilton Sofia.

Violence Against Women Knows No Borders Conference

he Violence Against Women Knows No Borders Conference, held in October 2005, brought together a wide range of local and national statutory bodies, women's groups and policy- Tmakers from throughout Ireland to discuss issues of domestic and sexual violence against women. The event was the result of a collaboration between the Newry and Mourne District Community Safety Partnership, Louth County Council, the North East Rape Crisis, the Sexual Abuse Centre and Women's Aid from both sides of the border. "We reached a large target audience and created an forum where awareness of the problems facing women was generated," says Siobhán Fearon, director of the Women's Aid Centre, Dundalk. "The whole spectrum of domestic abuse was discussed and a 'template policy' of how to deal with abuse once disclosure has been made by the victim was presented, so that employers, community groups and those within the wider community can respond effectively by contacting experts. The various groups in attendance were also given the opportunity to network and become more aware of hidden problems women face and the current levels of support available," she says. The conference was attended by 250 people, including representatives from Amnesty International, Ruhama – which works with women caught up in prostitution – as well as PSNI and Garda representatives. One aspect of the difficulties faced by women when confronting domestic abuse has been the complexity of dealing with different laws and arrangements for welfare provision when they are forced to flee across the border to escape violence. “Various state bodies, like the Housing Executive in the North, were present at the conference. We would like to think they have responded positively since then," says conference co-ordinator, Helen Cranney. The event was funded by the EU Peace programme. PHOTO: NEWRY DEMOCRAT

Dr Barney Toal

Digital Media Works

n exciting partnership between the North wouldn’t get anywhere else. And then we have a West Institute of Further and Higher business opportunities development officer who AEducation and the Institute works with each entrepreneur to identify products (through NORIBIC and WestBic) has created a and markets they should be targeting.” business incubation unit to assist the development The new game is set in a Derry of the future in of the digital multimedia industry in the which a boy and girl from different tribes have to northwest. go back in time to 1995 in order to develop their The centre provides a physical resource and friendship. creative environment to help develop local skills “They have to solve problems and puzzles while and talents and unlock creativity. learning about the run-up to the Good Friday A parallel Business Support Centre provides a Agreement and the peace process in order to link between the academic environment of the complete the game,” he says. “The feedback from two institutes and the commercial environment. children has been very positive and now the The centre is located in the northwest and entrepreneurs have a game which they can provides managed workspace as a “hot desk” include in their portfolio when seeking work. The facility with open access to ICT equipment for the game cost £50,000 (¤75,000) to develop but development of new business ideas and new skills. when we had people over here recently from the Over 21 self-employed entrepreneurs have just Coventry Science Park, they were convinced it finished the first major project at Digital Media was a £500,000 (¤750,000) project because the Works: the creation of a game to promote peace quality was so high.” and reconciliation. Dr Toal says he’s “very proud” of what’s been “It has taken about nine months to develop and achieved by Digital Media Works and is confident is really world class,” says Dr Barney Toal of more success lies ahead. “We are directing our Digital Media Works. “We are involved in much entrepreneurs towards serious gaming which can more than just supplying workspace to our be used for education and training. That’s the entrepreneurs. We also give them a lot of business market opportunity we see rather than the mentoring and technical support which they entertainment gaming industry.”

Strabane Lifford Development Commission

ince 1993 the Strabane Lifford Development Project has ploughed ¤25 million children are being taught in school. (£18 million) into development projects in the border region. In 2001 it “Many of those trained have gone on to complete formal qualifications, while Slaunched the Centre Without Walls Project to provide Information Technology others have advanced further, gaining full-time employment with their newly-acquired training to community groups and individuals in the east Donegal and Strabane areas. skills.” Target IT hubs, where trainers can offer taster sessions in computer literacy and Courtesy of the project, 414 people have gained or are currently in the process of more advanced technical programmes, have been established. gaining IT qualifications. Over 1900 people are currently undergoing or have “Many of those who have become involved in the scheme say it has been a life- completed wider personal development and educational training. transforming experience,” says chief executive Alan Moneypenny. Two cross-border networks have also been established, which aim at improving “Not only have we trained community organisations, we have also trained inter-community relationships through the provision of a chatroom, notice board, individuals, particularly parents who feel the need to get up to speed on what their cross-border conferences, a virtual “buddy” system and designated networking days.

Ashley Wray Sr Celine McArdle

Easilift Castleblayney Arts and Community Resource Centre he Easilift Rural community 60 participants – all of whom have now ince its foundation in 2001, the centre has encouraged arts by the people of transport project in Strabane received their PCV accreditation. Castleblayney and surrounding areas – north and south of the border – through the Tstepped up a gear last year with a The training has addressed an Sinitiation of dynamic programmes. new, EU-funded initiative to expand its identified skills shortage in the Sister Celine Ardle, chairwoman of the Castleblayney Arts and Community Development minibus service into Donegal. community transport sector while Ltd says the company brought together many of the existing community development and Easy access to transportation can enhancing employment opportunities in artistic programmes in Castleblayney under the one roof. tackle rural isolation and build cross- areas that are among the highest ranked Its holistic approach to community need has given the arts a central role in providing border bridges. in terms of deprivation. educational opportunities and self-expression to those who use the centre. However, traditional transport Training has taken place on both sides “Various local community groups led by the Castleblayney Trust for the Homeless, providers have failed miserably to meet of the border. Needy and Unemployed, the Blayney Blades Women’s group and the Castleblayney the needs of the Strabane-Lifford “Not only are relationships being built Development Association all came together to develop the centre,” explains Sr Celine. hinterland. by the participants but also the co- “It was a historic development – the first time divergent groups came together to Faced with a shortage of drivers who ordinator and management committee promote and foster space for innovation in community and personal development,”she says. hold an international PCV licence, which have established new links with groups The multi-million pound centre, made possible by the provision of EU funding, now would enable them to drive on both sides and individuals on both sides of the employs 53 staff, including drama teachers and development and heritage officers, who are of the border, Easilift developed a border,” says Easilift co-ordinator Ashley involved in an eclectic range of innovative projects. The centre boasts a state-of-the-art, comprehensive training programme for Wray. 300 seat theatre, an art gallery, a board room and several workshop spaces.

30 March 2006 INVESTING IN LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS

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