Mr. Speaker, the International Fund for Ireland strives to promote the cause of peace in Northern Ireland by focusing on the economic and social development of the counties of the north and the border counties.
Emphasis is placed on cross-border projects which build intercommunity links and dialogue, thereby reducing sectarian hatred. By encouraging and helping nationalists and loyalists to work together, the International Fund for Ireland helps them to understand that it is possible for them to live together not only in peace but even in friendship.
Canada is a founding partner of this important fund. Last June the Prime Minister saw the work of the fund personally during his trip to Ireland. He also announced Canada's latest contribution to the International Fund for Ireland of $1 million. Today I am pleased to welcome to Ottawa the chair of the International Fund for Ireland, Mr. Willie McCarter, and the Canadian observer on the fund, Mr. Ted McConnell.