1 July 1999 Edition
O Caoláin welcomes go-ahead for Walsh Visas Scheme
The Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998 (the Walsh Visas scheme) is to go ahead with the first visas coming on stream in October. The news was announced by Cavan/Monaghan Sinn Féin TD Caoimhghín O Caoláin, who was informed today by Congressman Walsh's office in Washington DC that funding for the Scheme has been cleared.
The visas are targeted at people under 35 in the Border Counties and the Six Counties. Four thousand visas will be granted in each of three years. Deputy O Caoláin said:
``This scheme is a tangible demonstration of the peace dividend for the people of the Border Counties and the North of Ireland. It is a direct and concrete demonstration of positive U.S. participation in the Irish peace process.''
Appreciation for work done to recover bodies
Caoimhghín O Caoláin has expressed appreciation of the work which has been done to recover the remains discovered today at Colgagh, Culloville, County Monaghan. O Caoláin said: ``This discovery will be greeted with great relief. I hope that it proves to be the end of the long ordeal for the families concerned.
``The continuing work of those searching for the bodies deserves the appreciation of all. This painful process has been long and protracted but I hope that perseverance will ensure that the other remains will soon be located.
``I extend my continuing sympathy to all the families concerned.''
The visas are targeted at people under 35 in the Border Counties and the Six Counties. Four thousand visas will be granted in each of three years. Deputy O Caoláin said:
``This scheme is a tangible demonstration of the peace dividend for the people of the Border Counties and the North of Ireland. It is a direct and concrete demonstration of positive U.S. participation in the Irish peace process.''
Appreciation for work done to recover bodies
Caoimhghín O Caoláin has expressed appreciation of the work which has been done to recover the remains discovered today at Colgagh, Culloville, County Monaghan. O Caoláin said: ``This discovery will be greeted with great relief. I hope that it proves to be the end of the long ordeal for the families concerned.
``The continuing work of those searching for the bodies deserves the appreciation of all. This painful process has been long and protracted but I hope that perseverance will ensure that the other remains will soon be located.
``I extend my continuing sympathy to all the families concerned.''