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Celebrating the International Fund
for Ireland
11.12.08
MANY important social
and development projects in Inishowen became a
reality over the last 22 years because of financial
support from the International Fund for Ireland (IFI).
Communities in all parts of the county and across
the border had been able to undertake a range of
projects and the fund has contributed greatly to the
economic, social and cultural well-being of the
county.
In recognition of its contribution, the Donegal
County Development Board last Thursday hosted the
launch of the new IFI book – ‘A Fund of Goodwill –
The Story of the International Fund for Ireland’ in
the Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny.
Board chairman, Cllr Francis Conaghan told the
gathering: “The fund has been an invaluable asset
for the county, enabling it to address and to tackle
some of the disadvantages from which it has suffered
over the years due to its border location and its
peripherality from Dublin. |
"The resources provided
by the fund allied to the effort of local
communities has resulted in some of our most
disadvantaged and peripheral groups being able to
provide essential facilities and local resources."
IFI chairman Denis Rooney explained that the book
was commissioned to ensure that the legacy of the
IFI, and the "noble role" played by its donors, was
available to all.
The book was written by Alf McCreary who said the
Fund's story was |
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"one of co-operation on
many levels, not only politically and economically,
but also across the divides within communities and
across the border".
He added: "It is a complex story but also an
inspiring story of how so many people committed
themselves to doing their best in the worst of
times."
“It is my hope that this book has done justice to
the story, and that it leaves an important record of
a remarkable institution which emerged from a period
of sustained conflict, and which has played a part
in helping to create an atmosphere of co-operation
in which peace could blossom.”
Mr. Michael O hÉanaigh, Director of Community,
Culture and Enterprise, Donegal County Council said
one of Donegal's greatest resources is its Diaspora
- people living in all parts of the world.
"We are working to ensure that the Diaspora is a
resource for Donegal and that Donegal is a resource
for the Diaspora.
"The International Fund for Ireland is a clear
example of how the Irish Diaspora and Friends of
Ireland in the donor countries have been able to
make a practical and important contribution to this
country. We hope to build on this ground work for
Donegal and North West Ireland in the future," said
Mr O hÉanaigh.
For more photos from the book launch,
click here |
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