Culture Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has been attempting to unite the people of east and west Belfast through a cross-community arts exchange project and programe of cultural events in the city's Gaeltacht Quarter.

West Belfast's Mícheál Doherty presented his work, showcasing Teach Ard na bhFeá – Beechmount House - on behalf of Forbairt Feirste to the Irish language group Turas, which is based in the East Belfast Mission.

In turn, John Stewart then presented on behalf of Turas to Forbairt Feirste with a piece that focuses on the industrial heritage of east Belfast.

The visit was attended by Jimmy Deenihan, Ireland's Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht, and Dinny McGinley, Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs.

Minister Ní Chuilín explained: "This event in the Gaeltacht Quarter is one example of the cultural connections happening right across the creative and cultural sector. The Irish language is one that can be shared across communities and that is something being demonstrated through the work of Forbairt Feirste and Turas.

"This really is a case of east meets west with Turas based in the East of the city and Forbairt Feirste in the west. It is however just the start, with a number of events planned throughout the year aimed at unlocking the history of Teach Ard na bhFeá – Beechmount House."

Minister Deenihan added: "The power of the arts to inspire, educate and bring communities together is well documented. Art can be used to engage and showcase our cultural heritage to both local and wider communities. Art is a means to both promote and protect our shared cultural heritage. I am delighted to be here today to share in this very symbolic exchange of work between these two local artists."

Minister McGinley concluded: "As a fluent Irish speaker, I am pleased to be here to be able to see the enthusiasm and the passion for the language in Belfast. The Irish language is a language that is shared by us all; across cities, communities and counties. It is important that we continue to work together to ensure that our language continues to grow and flourish. Through the sharing of our culture and traditions, we can better understand each other and continue to enjoy our shared heritage."

The Ministers made a tour of Belfast during their visit, including the Ulster-Scots Agency, the Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC), the Cultúrlann and the Gaeltacht Quarter.

As Minister Ní Chuilín explained: "I have been proud to be able to show Ministers Deenihan and McGinley my city. Both in Belfast and across the north we have much to be proud of with regard to our creativity, culture and traditions."

(IT/CD)