Remarks by HRH The Prince of Wales during a visit to the Education Authority Headquarters, Belfast

Published

Whenever I visit this part of the world, I never cease to be profoundly moved by the work that is being done to heal the pain of the past, to bring understanding and reconciliation in the present, and to build hope for the future.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I just wanted to say before we go, how very grateful I am to all of you for giving up your precious time to be here this afternoon to explain what you are doing, which is fascinating and very necessary. I cannot tell you how really inspiring it has been to hear of the tireless work being carried out by youth workers on all sides of the community, and I just wanted to take this opportunity, if I may, to pay a special tribute to your dedication and commitment to the cause of peaceful co-existence.

We must never underestimate the risk - and of course the cost - of holding to peaceful ways, and how much determination and courage is actually necessary. All of you whom I have met here today, and many more of your colleagues in your communities, have shown those qualities in the most challenging circumstances. We owe you therefore, I think a deep debt of gratitude and above all of admiration.

Whenever I visit this part of the world, I never cease to be profoundly moved by the work that is being done to heal the pain of the past, to bring understanding and reconciliation in the present, and to build hope for the future.

All who love this very special part of the world can only wish you renewed strength of spirit and resolve as you take forward this work of such vital importance to these islands. So, thank you Ladies and Gentlemen for all you do.

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