Charles hails NI’S ‘inspiring’ youth workers

THE Prince of Wales has paid tribute to the “inspiring” efforts of youth workers to bring about reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

In the second engagement of their visit, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall met with a number of youth workers at the headquarters of the Education Authority in Belfast city centre.

Charles and Camilla heard reflections from young people living in deprived areas on how youth workers had impacted their lives.

In a speech, Charles hailed the “tireless work” being done to bring about reconciliation.

“I cannot tell you how really inspiring it has been to hear of the tireless work being carried out by youth workers on all sides of the community, and I just wanted to take this opportunity, if I may, to pay special tribute to your dedication and commitment to the cause of peaceful co-existence,” he said.

“We must never underestimate the risk, and of course the cost, of holding to peaceful ways, and how much determination and courage is necessary.

“All of you whom I have met here today and many more of your colleagues in your communities have shown those qualities in the most challenging circumstances.

“We owe you a deep debt of gratitude and above all of admiration.”

Among the work discussed at the engagement were schemes to stop bonfire builders from engaging in antisocial behaviour.

He added: “Whenever I visit I never cease to be profoundly moved by the work that is being done to heal the pain of the past, to bring understanding and reconciliation in the present and to build hope for the future. All who love this very special part of the world can only wish you renewed strength of spirit.”