ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT MARY MCALEESE ON THE OCCASION OF HER MEETING WITH BALLYBOFEY
ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT MARY MCALEESE ON THE OCCASION OF HER MEETING WITH BALLYBOFEY – STRANORLAR COMMUNITY GROUPS AT JACKSONS HOTE
Judging by the presence of so many representatives of local help, cultural and sporting organisations – there is obviously a great sense of community in Ballybofey and Stranolar – a great sense of faith and respect for each other – a great spirit of self-confidence in what you are doing for and within your community – and in where you are going.
That spirit of partnership which I see here today – is mirrored in many cities, towns and villages troughout Ireland. Indeed, a major factor in Ireland’s great economic and social success stems from the partnership approach - which is a feature in so many areas of life. But of course there’s nothing new in this – it always has been a feature of Irish life for neighbour to help neighbour - and friend to help friend - especially when an extra pair of hands were needed. Nowadays not only are “willing hands” welcome, but also open and creative minds with new ideas, to help and support communities as they come together to harness their strengths and talents for the good of all, such as in the parish level support of local development initiatives. There is a new spirit in Ireland – a self-confidence in our abilities – a “can do” philosophy – which is bringing us to new levels of achievement.
Clearly the efforts of Ballybofey & Stranolar Development Limited are making a real and noticeable difference - and the achievements are the result of the involvement, motivation and enthusiasm of all the local people. With the objectives of maximising the potential of the area – the generation of employment – the development of industry – and the enhancement of the environment of the town – the Development has brought together the businesses, the community and Donegal County Council to work in partnership for the good of all – producing a development plan which addresses the areas of common concern and reaches out to people like the International Fund for Ireland for financial assistance in the realisation of their plans. The great contribution to communities in the border regions by the IFI cannot be overestimated and a great debt of gratitude is owed to the Fund for their dedication and support to the many communities that they have assisted.
But the people of Donegal are not confining their efforts to their own communities. Earlier I met with the groups who are bring children who have suffered so terribly from the Chernobyl disaster twelve years ago. By their willingness to help and to reach out to others in need – they have shown yet again the great spirit that exists on this island – the great sense of love and charity that drives Irish people to get in far greater proportion that our numbers would suggest. And the links that are being established with the Belfast based charity, Children of the Fallout, are an example of another fruitful partnership which can only serve to enhance the level of help and support that we can give to those unfortunate children and their families.
The great community spirit that you have here will stand to you as you face the many changes that the future will bring. Being so close to your neighbours in Northern Ireland – I am sure that I speak for everyone her in expressing the hope that we will soon see a new beginning to the relationships between the communities, cultures and traditions on this island. Your community is well poised to build on these emerging development – and to let Ballybofey and Stranorlar continue to meet the challenges that the new millennium will bring.