Lo awarded accolade of intercultural Ambassador in Dublin today

1.56.00pm GMT Thu 24th Jan 2008

Alliance South Belfast MLA Anna Lo

Alliance MLA Anna Lo will today be given the accolade of Ambassador for Ireland by the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI). Anna Lo is the only Ambassador chosen that comes from Northern Ireland. The accolade comes as European Union has designated 2008, Year of Intercultural Dialogue. The launch of the event is taking place in Mansion House in Dublin and President McAleese is attending.

South Belfast MLA Anna Lo said: "I am very proud to have been awarded the status of intercultural Ambassador for Ireland by NCCRI.

"This award further enhances the increasingly positive image that people have of Northern Ireland. It again puts this region on the European stage and I want to use my role as Ambassador to boost Northern Ireland.

"As an Ambassador I will be participating in key intercultural events throughout the year and promoting good relations. Intercultural dialogue will not only engender better global relationships, but also give Northern Ireland a chance to strengthen and re-balance the economy by attracting more investment and tourism.

"It's another great opportunity to put Northern Ireland forward on the global stage and do our utmost to deliver real improvements for local people."

ENDS