Over 150 guests attended today’s launch of the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) funded ‘Shared Space’ project at the Manorcunningham Resource Centre in Co. Donegal. The project was officially launched by Dr. Joe Mullholland, Donegal Person of the Year. Mr. Winston Patterson, who has recently joined the Board of the IFI, attended on behalf of the Fund. Promoted by Manorcunningham Community Development Association Ltd. (MCDA), the ‘Shared Space’ project will run over a three-year period, providing a range of diverse groups, both on a cross-community and cross-border basis, with a neutral space to come together for social, recreational and educational activities.The IFI, under its Community Based Economic and Social Regeneration (CBESR) Programme, provided funding of EUR260,000 towards the project. This enabled MCDA to develop, finance and secure a schedule of activities through which all sections of the community can work together and address sensitive social and political issues, and contribute to the development of mutual understanding between different religions, gender and ethnic backgrounds.  Distinct groups such as youth, women, men, senior citizens, unemployed people, lone parents, and disabled persons will all make use of the Centre and engage in a wide range of cross-community / cross-border activities and work with groups from Northern Ireland with whom the Association has already established links.Speaking at the launch, Winston Patterson, said: “Organisations like Manorcunningham Community Development Association recognise that, in these changing times, we have a special responsibility to make sure that the benefits of today’s new era of peace are secured so that everyone in our society can experience them. I commend MCDA on their ongoing commitment to their local community, and I look forward to seeing the ‘Shared Space’ initiative in full swing.” Mr Patterson expressed deep appreciation also for the support of current and former donors to the IFI: the United States, the European Union, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.Among the comprehensive events planned under the ‘Shared Space’ project, MCDA intends to provide a range of sporting activities, drama and dance classes for young people from all sections of the community; provide computer classes to develop people’s skills and employment opportunities; set up a support network for lone parents; and to undertake a programme of workshops and discussions which address diversity, sectarianism and racism in order to bring about acceptance of different cultures and religions.     Speaking on behalf of the Manorcunningham Community Development Association, Lorraine Crawford, Committee Chairperson said: “We are delighted with the help and support received for our project ‘A Shared Space’ from the International Fund for Ireland.  The Manorcunningham Community Development has endeavoured over the years to enhance community relations through various activities.  These activities have focused on the soft outcomes of community participation, involving the various strands of peace, reconciliation and providing a sense of pride in our local community.”MCDA is a cross-community organisation of 37 years standing which operates from a very successful community resource centre in Manorcunningham.  The centre management has worked on a cross-community basis over a number of years, and has a track record in working across all sections of the community. MCDA’s mission statement is “to create a sustainable community facility serving all sections of the community of Manorcunningham and the surrounding area.”

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