Northern Ireland can be a world example says Trimble

First Minister David Trimble has said he believes Northern Ireland can be an example to other parts of the world.

Mr Trimble was speaking in Waterford on Thursday 21 March, where he received the St Angela’s Peace and Justice Group’s International Award.

He said: “Nearly four years on, the Agreement remains robust and still represents the best opportunity for peace, stability and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

“Through political co-operation we have made real progress in many areas and are determined to build on this good work. Part of our success to date has been due to our determination that ours is a listening administration, which believes that consultation with the electorate helps us to get it right.

“By demonstrating that our structures of government can work for all, we can build a society based on equality, inclusiveness and fairness. A strong society that can be at peace with itself in the new millennium," he added.

“There is tremendous support and goodwill for Northern Ireland across the world." The First Minister has recently returned from the United States, where Mr Trimble and Deputy First Minister, Mark Durkan, met with President Bush and representatives of the President's administration.

Mr Trimble added: “Our Executive is keen to show what Northern Ireland has to offer and we have recently opened offices in Brussels and Washington to spread the message that we are a good place to do business with.” (AMcE)