merrion street

Mr. Dinny McGinley T.D., Minister of State for the Gaeltacht, visited the office of the Ulster-Scots Agency in Raphoe and the Ulster Scots - Scots Irish Heritage and Education Centre in Monreagh, Carrigans, Co. Donegal today Monday 23

January, 2012.

Accompanied by Mr. Ian Crozier, Chief Executive of the Ulster-Scots Agency, the Minister of State was delighted to accept an invitation to gain first-hand experience of the excellent work that is being pursued in both of these centres to support and promote the rich heritage and culture of the Ulster-Scots tradition. The Minister of State McGinley said: "The work of the Ulster-Scots Agency in County Donegal, the border counties and throughout the island of Ireland is invaluable in the promotion of an integral part of our rich cultural heritage and in fostering greater co-operation and mutual respect for the benefit of all. It is most gratifying to see at first-hand the objectives of the Good Friday Agreement being achieved in such a practical and worthwhile manner."

Mr. Ian Crozier said: "The Ulster-Scots Agency’s remit is not confined to Northern Ireland. The Agency works to promote the Ulster-Scots culture throughout the island of Ireland and beyond, and is involved in a range of activities under the interrelated themes of language, culture, education and awareness since its establishment. County Donegal will host a number of Ulster-Scots festivals during 2012 which are currently in their planning stages and Ulster-Scots summer schools are also being planned for July and August 2012."