Celebration of Good Relations Showcases Community Spirit in Newry, Mourne and Down

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council hosted a Celebration of Good Relations event at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry, on Thursday 16 October, highlighting the creativity and commitment of local groups supported through the Council’s Good Relations Financial Assistance Scheme.

The evening brought together community and voluntary organisations, funders and partners for a panel discussion and cultural performances. Attendees also had the chance to connect directly with funding bodies, including the Community Relations Council, the Central Good Relations Fund and the Council’s Grants and Funding Team, to explore opportunities for future projects.

Paying tribute to the work of local groups and individuals, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “We were delighted to host this Celebration of Good Relations event. It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the positive work that is ongoing throughout Newry, Mourne and Down and celebrate the work of groups and individuals who dedicate their time to bringing the people of our district together.”

The event featured a keynote address from Peter Osborne, former Chair of the Community Relations Council, who has played a leading role in civil and peacebuilding developments across Northern Ireland.

A panel discussion with representatives from The Respect Project, Newry, The Schomberg Society, Kilkeel and Youth Initiatives, Downpatrick shared inspiring stories of fostering good relations at a grassroots level. Audiences were also treated to performances by Kirknarra School of Dance, Kilkeel and St Joseph’s Pipe Band, Glasdrummond, celebrating the district’s cultural richness and diversity. Their performances showcased the creativity of local communities and demonstrated how arts and culture can play a powerful role in connecting people.

The Celebration formed part of Good Relations Week 2025 which ran from Monday 13 to Sunday, a region-wide initiative co-ordinated by the Community Relations Council and supported by The Executive Office under the Together: Building a United Community strategy.