A new business and community facility called ‘Jolly Roger’ was officially opened today (7th September) by Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland and Denis Rooney CBE, Chairman of the International Fund for Ireland.

The state of the art project has been completed for the benefit of local people in the Upper Ardoyne area of Belfast.  It includes:
• A Mace retail facility;
• Community facilities for activities such as counselling, advice and alternative therapies;
• Conference and training facilities for education and employment training and
• Office units.

Nelson McCausland said:  “This is great news for the people of North Belfast. This project represents the culmination of years of hard work and vision by local people.  I salute their efforts and am delighted that my Department and the International Fund for Ireland have had the opportunity to help deliver a better quality of life for the next generation delivering services, new opportunities and sustainability for the future.”

“This project will help to tackle the social and economic problems that exist in this community.  Alongside other Neighbourhood Renewal assistance, we are making real progress towards the regeneration of this part of North Belfast.”

The project has been made possible through collaboration between the Department for Social Development, the International Fund for Ireland and the Upper Ardoyne Community Partnership.

Denis Rooney, Chairman of the International Fund for Ireland, which contributed £357,227 to the Project, said: “The Upper Ardoyne Community Partnership has shown great vision in the development of the Jolly Roger Complex and today’s opening is testimony to their commitment and continued efforts to build community capacity and promote social and economic advance in Upper Ardoyne.”

"The Jolly Roger Complex provides a modern community space where local residents can meet and access a wide variety of services and community activities.

“The International Fund for Ireland is keen to support projects such as the Upper Ardoyne Community Partnership Social Economy Project, which will have a positive and lasting impact long after the Fund ceases to exist.”

Ronnie Black, Chairman of the Upper Ardoyne Community Partnership said “The Jolly Roger Complex situated in the heart of the area brings a whole new aspect to this community.  The complex will provide a warm and vibrant atmosphere, and for the first time brings a real shop into the community.  I believe the complex will have an enormous impact on the lives of many residents and will also assist in addressing some of the social and economic ills within our community by providing employment and training, as well as boosting moral”.

Michael Cosby of the Upper Ardoyne Community Enterprises Ltd said “It is a tremendous asset for the community and is fast becoming a hive of activity and a hub for family and community life.”

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