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The Leaders of Ireland's four main Churches will return to Belfast today, 28-10-98, arriving at Belfast International Airport at 12.45pm on the completion of their first joint visit to the European Commission and Parliament in Brussels.
During the 48 hour visit the four leaders met with MEP's from North and South of the border, officials from a range of European departments, the President of the European Parliament, Mr Jose Maria Gil-Robles and a representative of European Commission President, M. Jacques Santer.
The Church Leaders paid tribute to the part played by the EU in the affairs of Northern Ireland and in particular the positive effects of Peace and Reconciliation funding.
While not wishing Northern Ireland to become a grant dependent culture the Church Leaders did emphasise the benefits of this funding and the need for it to continue for a further period of time to secure the future of many excellent projects begun.
The Church Leaders also made representation to officials in respect of the severe difficulties being experienced by the farming community throughout Ireland and discussed the possible reduction in EU grant aid for Ireland in the next European financial accounting period.
Archbishop Sean Brady (Primate, Roman Catholic Church)
Archbishop Robin Eames (Primate, Church of Ireland)
Rt. Rev. Dr. John Dixon (Moderator, Presbyterian Church)
Rev. David Kerr (President, Methodist Church)
Issued by Stephen Lynas (Tel: 0802 264354) and Liz Harries (Tel: 0374 295369) on behalf of the Four Church Leaders.
Issued by Stephen Lynas, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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