Northern Ireland Secretary's visit

OWEN Paterson, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, dropped in on Warrington’s Peace Centre.
He was welcomed by Warrington South MP David Mowat and met Colin and Wendy Parry, founders of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace.
During his visit, Mr Paterson heard of the groundbreaking work the foundation is undertaken and toured the facilities.
They spoke about the unique nature of the work the foundation does, empowering people affected by violent conflict to make a positive contribution in their own communities.
Mr Mowat said: “The work that the Peace Centre does is unique and we should be really proud to have such a resource in Warrington.
“The IRA bomb in 1993 shocked the town, but something really positive has emerged from it. I am glad that Owen Paterson is keen to recognise the great work that is going on in Warrington and I hope he does all he can to promote it.”
Mr Parry said: “The foundation’s work has developed significantly since the centre opened 10 years ago. We have taken the learning from the Northern Ireland ‘Troubles’ and applied it to conflicts elsewhere in the world.
“Last year we ran a youth programme with participants from Israel, Palestine, Africa, Ireland, England and the Basque region of Spain. The aim was for young people to learn about each others’ conflicts and develop skills to become ambassadors for peace within their own communities.”
Mr Paterson said: “The response of Colin and Wendy Parry to the terrible tragedy of Warrington is moving and inspirational.
“The foundation is engaged in important work that now goes well beyond the particular circumstances of the conflict in Northern Ireland.”
Pictured (left to right): David Mowat, foundation chief executive Claire White, Wendy Parry and Secretary of State Owen Peterson.