Crumlin jail and Belfast peace walls destination for day of reflection

The Day of Private Reflection is held annually on the summer solstice and is promoted through the organisation 'Healing Through Remembering'.

The date was chosen because the hours of light and dark on that day are a symbol of the hope and pain in our society – a sign of looking back and looking forward.

Sue Divin, Community Relations Officer with Derry City Council, said: "The Day of Private Reflection is an important date on the calendar here, especially for those who have suffered during our troubled past or anyone who simply wants to reflect on what happened here and how that affected them and others."

"This trip is an inclusive and positive experience emphasising a commitment to a peaceful new society and provides an opportunity to reflect upon the conflict in and about Northern Ireland and our future."

The Tour of the Crumlin Road Gaol tells at first hand the history of the Gaol's diverse past including political prisoners, the 'Hanging' cell, the prisoners' reception room, child prisoners, Suffragettes and executions.

The bus tour of Belfast will focus on recent political history and the 'Peace Walls' or interfaces that still divide communities today.

The afternoon bus tour will be shared with community participants from the Omagh District Council as a Peace III networking opportunity. Light lunch will be included in the Titanic docks area of the city.

The day is funded through the District Council's Community Relations Programme (CRU, OFMDFM).

Derry City Council has 30 places for adults available on a trip to Crumlin Road Gaol and Belfast Interfaces as part of the Day of Private Reflection on June 21st. Advance booking is essential.

The bus departs from Ebrington Centre Carpark at 9.15am and returns at 5.30pm.

The 30 places available will be offered on a first come first served basis with a maximum of 2 participants per community group.

Please note that places cannot be booked unless the name, phone contact and e-mail (if available) of the individual are given at the time of booking.

Applicants must be aged 16 or over. The deadline for bookings is Friday 11th June 2010 but people are encouraged to book as soon as possible.

To book contact Sue Divin, on email: [email protected] , telephone 02871345160 or fax: 71311524.