The Irish and British Governments announce their intention to appoint Mr. Denis Rooney as incoming Chairman of the IFI
The Irish and British Governments today announced their intention to appoint Mr. Denis Rooney MBE as incoming Chairman of the International Fund for Ireland (IFI). Mr. Rooney, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor and businessman, will succeed Dr. Willie McCarter CBE, who will step down at the end of his term in February 2005 after 12 years as Chairman and over 15 years on the Board of the Fund, founded in 1986.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Dermot Ahern T.D., and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Mr. Paul Murphy MP paid tribute to Willie McCarter for his years of service to the IFI. They said his contribution has been essential to the success of the organisation.
“Willie McCarter’s tireless efforts have been a key element of the Fund’s development over the years,” said Minister Ahern.
“The IFI’s success in fostering economic development and improving cross-community and cross-border understanding in Northern Ireland and the border counties is due in large part to Willie McCarter. He deserves the gratitude of the people of Ireland, North and South for his contribution to peace, reconciliation and increased prosperity on this island.”
Secretary of State Murphy echoed these sentiments: “Willie McCarter’s efforts on behalf of the International Fund for Ireland are remarkable by any standard,” he said.
“His record with the Fund from 1989 has demonstrated his commitment to cross-community and cross-border cooperation and he can be proud of what the IFI has achieved under his stewardship. We wish him all the best for the future.”
Minister Ahern and Secretary of State Murphy described Mr. Rooney as a skilled and able leader, with a wide range of community and business experience, who would continue to guide the Fund in promoting reconciliation and economic development in Northern Ireland and the six Southern border counties.
