The Rev’d Dr David Latimer, who has been one of the architects of peace and reconciliation in the city of Derry, made a small application for funding towards an International City of Peace announcement event taking place on Thursday 21st September. By way of background, he advised that he was contacted more than two years ago by the founder of International Cities of Peace enquiring about the possibility of Northern Ireland’s second city becoming a member. Post-Covid, and with restrictions lifted, he had been able to meet with key individuals and groups at Derry City & Strabane District Council – who have been fully supportive, and are covering most of the costs associated with this prestigious event. But, inevitably, there will be a shortfall – hence seeking The Honourable The Irish Society’s assistance. And the Local Advisory Committee agreed a grant of £1,500.
David Latimer wrote afterwards “… to express my heartfelt appreciation to the Trustees of the Honourable Irish Society, who generously provided funding for last Thursday’s historic event in the Guildhall, when Derry-Londonderry was established as an International City of Peace. A sea of youthful faces, drawn from fourteen post-Primary schools across the City & District, filled the Guildhall to capacity. A representative from the United Nations travelled, at no expense to us, so as to be with us for an event that was co-compered by the young, who were also the primary participants during the event. The Society’s generous contribution permitted us to reduce the shortfall between income and expenditure and for this I am so grateful. Warmest good wishes to you and the Trustees”.
