21/11/2011

O'Dowd Applauds JP McManus Scholarship

A cross-border event has marked an important scholarship scheme with the NI Education Minister, John O'Dowd, presenting awards to the successful Northern Ireland recipients at a ceremony in Limerick.

Funded by JP McManus, it provides financial assistance to 25 top-performing students from NI who are from low-income households.

Scholarships are also provided for students from across Ireland. Those attending the ceremony, along with the Minister, included the Taoiseach Enda Kenny, philanthropist JP McManus and special guest, popular Irish dancing star, Michael Flatley.

In 1996, Mr McManus established the award, which provides cash each year for third level education to selected students.

Meeting with recipients the Stormont Minister said: "Many young people take the decision to go on to higher education in order to pursue their goals and chosen careers.

"However for those from low income families this decision can be taken away from them due to financial constraints. J P McManus's continued investment and commitment to the All Ireland scholarships must be applauded.

"It is through scholarships and bursaries such as these that young people are able to carry onto higher education, something which may previously have been inaccessible," said the Sinn Fein Minister.

"Further education and training can unlock different career paths and broaden horizons, with students coming from communities and cultures from across Ireland and indeed the world. These scholarships represent not only an investment in the individuals but also in the wider community and economies.

"Our children and young people deserve all the help and assistance possible to help them to fulfil their potential. I want to congratulate all of the recipients on their hard work. I wish them every success in the future in their chosen studies and careers."

Scholarships are worth £5,500 per year with recipients coming from low-income households and in receipt of Educational Maintenance Allowance.

The ceremony took place on Saturday 19 November in the University of Limerick Concert Hall.

(BMcC/GK)

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