Minister Curran launches the Multicultural Young Peoples’ Awards 2009

The Minister for Integration, John Curran T.D., today launched the Multicultural Young Peoples’ Awards 2009, in the Department of Education and Science.

Speaking at the event Minister Curran said "Integration is the responsibility of everybody. Action on the part of all members of society is required, as integration affects all of us. Through their Multicultural Young Peoples’ Awards, the IACI is recognising the wonderful work of young people who are raising awareness of the importance of interculturalism and the benefits of cultural diversity for society."

There are seven different award categories to these awards

1. Art and culture
2. Sport and leisure
3. Education and science
4. Health and the environment
5. Social studies
6. Community and volunteerism
7. Special judges’ award

Minister Curran noted the involvement of many different agencies in the Awards, which include Catholic Youth Care, the Refugee Information Service, the Africa Centre, An Garda Siochána, the National Youth Council of Ireland, the Department of Education and Science and Dublin City Council and how the involvement of so many different organisations shows how integration activities can become a reality when they are supported.

The Minister concluded "Integration presents challenges. It also provides many opportunities. By playing our part in the process, we can overcome these challenges and truly make the most of the opportunities we now have. Through the work of so many different agencies, and particularly that of all the young people here today, integration in Ireland is continuing to be a dynamic and very positive two - way process."