Winners

Nominations closing at 12 noon on Tuesday 19/12/2023

Barney Mc Guigan

| Community Relations Council Exceptional Achievement Award (peacebuilding)

Barney McGuigan's work through Reach Across has been a beacon of hope in Northern Ireland, promoting unity and breaking down sectarian divisions. For over three decades, he has committed himself to the cause of good relations. His approach combines education with exciting engagement, using fun activities like trampolining, trips abroad, bowling, climbing, residentials, and water sports to create an inclusive and equitable environment where Catholic and Protestant children interact on equal footing. Barney's initiatives include historical trips and cross-border events, celebrating variety and difference (diversity) and deepening understanding of the region's history while fostering trust and inclusion (interdependence). Through Reach Across, he has cultivated lasting friendships, transforming attitudes among participants and serving as a model for community-building. His work reflects the values of the Community Relations Council, emphasizing fairness and justice (equity), the peaceful celebration of diversity, and the importance of sharing, trust, and inclusion. Barney McGuigan's sustained dedication continues to inspire and unite young people, offering a path towards a more harmonious and understanding society.

Nominations closing at 12 noon on Tuesday 19/12/2023