President McAleese Closes the Changing the Conversation Campaign
On Thursday 22 April at Belfast Metropolitan College, The President Of Ireland, Mary McAleese met more than 100 young people who had been participating in the Changing the Conversation Campaign.
Developed by the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland and Co-operation Ireland to mark their 30th anniversaries, and funded through the One Small Step initiative, the campaign gave young people under the age of 30 years the opportunity to meet and discuss the issues that are important to them.
Accompanied by her husband Dr. Martin President, the President’s visit was the finale of the10 day campaign, which ran from 12-22 April 2010.
Hosted by Cool FM DJ Pete Snodden, the event showcased some of the conversations the young participants had, as well as providing them the opportunity to express their ideas in a number of different formats, including a visual graffiti wall, social networking technology and a verbal world café.
Groups from all across Northern Ireland had engaged in conversations discussing topics such as global climate change, mental heath issues, rural transport access and employment prospects.
Dr Avila Kilmurray, Director of the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, said; “Our organization believes it’s vital to give younger people a platform to voice their views and concerns, particularly as we face into an uncertain future.
“Joining with Co-operation Ireland in the Changing the Conversation campaign allowed us to take a wide sample of opinion, which will help address our funding priorities in the years ahead.
“We’re delighted the entire process seems to have struck a chord and look forward to collating the feedback from the range of groups and individuals engaged in the Changing the Conversation process.
“Given the length of the campaign, it’s been hard work, but very worthwhile.”
Peter Sheridan, OBE, Chief Executive of Co-operation Ireland said,
“I am absolutely delighted that Co-operation Ireland’s Joint Patron President McAleese has taken the time to listen to the views of our young people. It illustrates her commitment to encouraging young people to move away from the past and help build a vibrant and peaceful society.
“This campaign does not end here. We plan to use the ideas that have emerged and encourage our politicians and decision makers to include them in all future plans and legislation.”
