22 August 2000

MINISTER UNVEILS NEW DEAL MURAL ON WESTLINK

Dr Sean Farren, Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment, today unveiled a cross-community mural at the Westlink. Undertaken under the New Deal programme the mural depicts Belfast landmarks.

During the unveiling ceremony, Dr Farren met the artist, Chris Armour, pupils from the two schools involved in the design of the mural and representatives of the charity Bryson House.

The Minister said: "I would like to thank everyone involved in this project including Bryson House, St Dominics and the Royal Belfast Academical Institution for undertaking this task on behalf of the local community. The mural is a wonderful piece of work representing as it does the hopes for an enduring peace and community reconciliation. It will be not only admired but hopefully reflected upon by many people as they travel along this very busy route."

He congratulated Chris Armour on his work and praised his vision and talent.

Dr Farren also thanked Bryson House for their commitment in developing the skills of their New Deal participants and providing novel opportunities for them to become involved in.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Media Enquiries contact Kevin Mulhern, Press Office, telephone 028 90 257790 or 07799 711523