Peace project summer scheme will ‘build for the future’ in Larne

The initiative is organised by the Irish Churches Peace Project and has received European funding.

The programme for children of post-primary school age is taking place at Larne Christian Fellowship Church and The Cliff in Seacourt.

It will continue this evening with Sports Wednesday (July 30), at The Cliff; music from lambegs and bodhrans, at Larne Christian Fellowship, on Thursday evening; and will conclude with orienteering and a barbecue at Carnfunnock on Friday evening. Each session commences at 6.45 pm and continues until 9.30 pm.

The scheme will be assisted by a group of teenagers from across the Larne borough who have been taking part in a workshop aimed at breaking down barriers.

They represent various religious denominations and community groups which have been working together as a group called “Dare to Hope”.

The group is a cross-community partnership which seeks to support future discussions amongst young people on identity, cultural awareness and shared space.

Keith Hamilton, director, of Irich Churches Peace Project, said: “Five churches have been working together with community leaders looking at need and how they can work together for the community.

“They have highlighted various issues about young people and because there is no Catholic grammar or secondary school in Larne, we felt it would be important to try to support some form of youth work locally.”

He indicated that ICPP is supporting a group of 14 youth leaders through a series of workshops and training this week.

A group of young people from Bradford have been invited to share their experiences of “building bridges” in a multi-cultural society.

Eamonn McFerran, ICPP good relations officer, added: “The summer scheme is about building friendships and having fun. We are building for the future.”

Consent forms for the summer scheme are available at Larne Leisure Centre, The Cliff and Ballygally Community Centre. Follow ‘Larne Summer Scheme’ on Facebook.