Two visionary peacemakers were today (16th October) remembered during the unveiling of a new major peace and reconciliation centre in Ballycastle.

Named after the founders of the Corrymeela Community, Ray and Kathleen Davey, the Davey Village was officially opened by International Fund for Ireland Chairman, Dr Adrian Johnston; First Minister Peter Robinson MLA and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, MP, MLA.

Ray and Kathleen Davey established the organisation in 1965 to promote reconciliation and peace building across social, religious and political divisions. Ray led the community until 1980 and died in April this year, four years after his late wife.

The new facility provides modern residential accommodation for groups and families visiting the Corrymeela Centre and offers people of all ages, creeds and cultures a space to reflect and learn.

The centre was backed by the International Fund for Ireland, through its Leaving a Legacy Programme; the Eithne and Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund and additional funds were raised by the Corrymeela Community.

Speaking at the event, Dr Adrian Johnston, Chairman International Fund for Ireland said:

“With the opening of this village we are not only championing the efforts of the Corrymeela Community but also paying tribute to the life and work of the late Ray and Kathleen Davey. During our most difficult of days Ray and Kathleen offered an early vision of how life should be.

“For nearly 50 years now the Corrymeela Community has been at the forefront of promoting tolerance, respect, peace and understanding on this island and has become the epitome of all that the Fund stands for. This community resource is good news for anyone interested in pursuing peace and stability in Northern Ireland.”

Dr Johnston also expressed a collective thanks to the international donors who have supported the work of the International Fund for Ireland for twenty-five years: namely, the United States of America, the European Union, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

John Fitzpatrick OBE, CEO Fitzpatrick Hotel Group, North America  said: “The Eithne and Paddy Fitzpatrick memorial fund is a long term supporter of Corrymeela’s vision and work. The completion of the Davey Village marks a milestone in its legacy and grants staff, volunteers and visitors access to fantastic resources and a shared and safe space for dialogue, conversation and reconciliation. It is a fitting tribute to two exceptional people and will enable their spirit to live on through the terrific ongoing work of the Corrymeela community.”

Rev Dr Inderjit Bhogal OBE, Leader and CEO of the Corrymeela Community, said: “Today we celebrate the life and vision of two exceptional peacemakers, Ray and Kathleen Davey. Their inspiration has lead to almost half a century of peace-building and reconciliation work with thousands of people from all walks of like. This village will enable us to help others continue the journey towards a shared future. The International Fund for Ireland, Eithne and Paddy Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund and other generous funders have made this possible.”

For almost 50 years Corrymeela’s residential centre on the North Coast of Antrim has been a safe space for meeting, encounter and dialogue for thousands of families, school children, youth groups, churches and community groups.

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