31 August 2000

FARREN VISITS MOUNT ZION HOUSE

The Mount Zion House project in Lurgan has played an important role in developing cross-community relations and the local economy, the Minister for Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment, Dr Sean Farren, said today.

The Minister was speaking after a visit to Mount Zion House during which he met and chatted with staff and local people who use the facilities, and officially opened the new Parlour Restaurant.

Congratulating all those involved with the project, Dr Farren said: "Mount Zion House has made an important contribution to the local community, something which is vital if we are to create a society which is totally inclusive.

"Not only has it provided facilities such as youth accommodation, childcare and counselling, but it has created nearly 40 jobs. When that is allied to the business facilities it has to offer, it is clear that Mount Zion has a growing influence on developing the local economy.

"I would, like to congratulate all those who have been involved in turning what was once a dream into reality. I hope that people in Lurgan, and indeed elsewhere in Northern Ireland, will learn from the example Mount Zion has set and I wish the project every success for the future."

 

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Formally St. Joseph's Convent, Mount Zion House was purchased and completely renovated and extended by Lurgan Community Trust at a cost of £2.4 million. The building now houses Lurgan Community Trust and Shankill Community Projects.

The project aims to provide an integrated service including training, employment, youth accommodation, modern childcare facilities, advice centre, commercial ventures, conference and seminar facilities, and has created 37 permanent jobs.

For further information please contact Simon Burrowes on 028 90 257831 or 07799 711524.