A milestone in the redevelopment of a new cross-community complex which will provide residential accommodation for groups and families visiting the Corrymeela Centre has been celebrated.

International Fund for Ireland Board Member, David Graham; John Fitzpatrick - of Fitzpatrick Hotels - and Kate Pettis, Corrymeela Interim Leader converged in Ballycastle recently to view the state-of-the-art building, which has been named the Davey Village in honour of Ray and Kathleen Davey who were founding members of the Corrymeela Community.

It will replace two older buildings and provide accommodation for 40 people in single or family rooms with ensuite facilities.

The International Fund for Ireland contributed £1.45m to the Project, through its Leaving a Legacy Programme; the Fitzpatrick Hotels Group contributed £98,760 and the remainder of the funding has been raised by the Corrymeela Community.

Speaking at the event David Graham said: "The Fund was happy to offer support for this project through our Leaving a Legacy Programme, which aims to support projects that will have a sustainable and positive impact on peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the southern border counties.

-- Advertisement --

"The International Fund for Ireland has supported many Corrymeela initiatives over many years, and the new Village complex will help Corrymeela to continue with its very important peace building work with local and international groups."

John Fitzpatrick commented: "We at the Eithne and Paddy Fitzpatrick memorial fund are long term supporters of Corrymeela's vision and work.

"I am delighted to see the progress phase II of Corrymeela's capital build is making.The Davey Village promises to be a fantastic resource for staff, volunteers and visitors alike and we are proud to contribute to the creation of a safe space for dialogue, conversation and reconciliation."

Paul Hutchinson, Centre Director added: "Corrymeela was founded in 1965 which was before the Troubles began but after divisions had already been established within society in Northern Ireland.

"Corrymeela has worked faithfully throughout the Troubles, to offer sanctuary, challenge perceptions and offer hope during these dark times. In this Post-Troubles era we continue to ask 'what needs reconciled?' and offer a safe place for encounter, dialogue, respite and reflection.

"The Davey Village will help us to realise our vision of reconciliation, through its state of the art design and eco-friendly construction in a location of stunning natural beauty."

The new building will be a place of possibility and hope and enable the Corrymeela Community to build on its 45 years of experience in peace-building.

The Village will be a place of restoration providing a holistic approach to reconciliation where body, mind, emotion and spirit are recognised and nurtured and where generations can share their pain and wisdom.

The facilities, which will be completed on time for Easter 2011, will enable programme staff to deliver innovative programmes for people of all ages, creeds and cultures and offer practitioners a space to reflect and learn.

(GK/BMcC)