European Culture Lands In Downtown Belfast

European officials and local politicians have thrown their weight behind students from across Northern Ireland who were in Belfast for a prestigious two-day exhibition and fair celebrating NI's links across Europe and worldwide.

'Opportunity Europe and Beyond' is organised by Belfast City Council and the European Commission Office in Northern Ireland with the support of the Stormont Department for Social Development.

In its eighth year, it brings thousands of students to the city to find out more about working, studying, travelling and volunteering abroad.

The DUP's Nelson McCausland, the Minister for Social Development, (pictured) said: "I'm pleased to be opening this exciting exhibition which shows the diversity of cultural life in Northern Ireland and the opportunities there are for our young people.

"Young people have a wonderful chance to learn about different cultures and languages and about the opportunities there are to study, volunteer or even work abroad.

"They can get some ideas about how they can join in as volunteers and get involved in things that they care about and are interested in.

"The experiences and skills they gain can help them develop and mature into responsible adults and active citizens," he added.

The unique event started on Tuesday and runs for two days at St George's Market where students can take part in a vibrant programme which includes music, dance, visual arts, quizzes, workshops, exhibition stands, discussions as well as the chance to sample cuisines from Europe and beyond.

Highlights included CoolFM's Pete Snodden hosting a quiz to test students knowledge on all things European with an opportunity to win prizes; the Onatti Theatre Company performing an interactive French play 'Les Garcons' twice a day - aimed at students in years 8-10; language taster sessions in German, Irish, Polish, Italian and Portuguese; learning to salsa dance as well as the chance to take part in the Chinese Dragon dance.

As part of the two-day event, 2011's 'European Year of Volunteering' is being highlighted with special workshops exploring this theme.

Among these are having the opportunity to work with the RSPB towards helping with bird feeding this winter and finding out how they can make a difference at the World Police and Fire Games coming to Belfast in 2013.

Alderman Christopher Stalford, Chairman of Belfast City Council’s Development Committee, said: "The council recognises the importance of competing on a European stage and equipping our young people with the right skills to avail of the opportunities that exist in Europe and further afield."

Maurice Maxwell, Head of the European Commission Office in Northern Ireland, said: "The European Union has a significant impact on life in Northern Ireland.

"Opportunity Europe and Beyond is a unique event that allows people to gain an insight into what Europe means for them.

"As well as highlighting the importance of Northern Ireland's European and international links and the relevance of language learning in today's global economy, Opportunity Europe and Beyond encourages a greater understanding of the many different cultures in Northern Ireland."

'Opportunity Europe and Beyond' is organised by Belfast City Council and the European Commission Office in Northern Ireland and supported by Northern Ireland CiLT, the British Council, Volunteer Now, the Office of the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister, the NI Council of the European Movement and Belfast Metropolitan College.

Visit the European Commission Office in Northern Ireland's website at www.ec.europa.eu/northernirelandfor details.

(BMcC/GK)