A regeneration initiative entitled “The Big Gaeltacht Quarter Plan” was launched recently at Coláiste Feirste with the aim of tackling poverty and social exclusion as well as promoting equality.

The Principal of the College, Professor Peter Finn, joined with Minister Carál Ní Chuilín MLA, John O'Dowd MLA, Paul Maskey MP and Martina Anderson MEP at the launch.

A special tribute was paid to the late Clive Dutton OBE, who contributed greatly to the development of the plan.

Seán Mistéil, Chair of Forbairt Feirste said:

“In the Gaeltacht Quarter we have a part of Ireland where the colours and textures of Irish language and culture are being interwoven with contemporary impulses and ideas. The threads are made of enterprise, creativity and innovation.”

Speaking in Irish, Carál Ní Chuilín MLA said:

“At the heart of the Gaeltacht Quarter mission is the concept of equality”.