Students from N. Ireland to visit city as part of peace-building program

A visit by Irish students to Rochester will culminate with a gathering for a meal at Mel Flanagan's. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - A group of students visiting the United States from Northern Ireland will spend the day in Rochester next week, interacting with students and residents while enjoying all the city has to offer, a press release from City Hall noted Thursday.
The trip will conclude with a dinner at Mel Flanagan's Irish Pub and Cafe on Tuesday
The visit is organized by Friends Forever International and comprises students from Northern Ireland who are visiting New Hampshire as part of the group's yearlong peace-building program, which aims to ease tensions between Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland. Mel Flanagan's has hosted the group in Rochester for each of the last 10 years.
Part of the FFI program includes a two-week visit to the United States, which gives the students a chance to participate in a cultural exchange while building lasting relationships that they can maintain and build upon once they return to Belfast.
"It's baby steps to peace, but I can see this is a pathway to an end to the conflict some day," Mel Flanagan's co-owner Melanie Belville said. "These kids are considered future leaders, and they're making a huge difference over there."
One former FFI participant is now a city councilor in Belfast, Belville added.
The evening will feature an open and informal discussion between local students and the Irish visitors, followed by a buffet and performances of Irish music by local band Bradagan.
"This is an amazing opportunity for Rochester's residents to learn about a different culture and get to know people they may otherwise never have the chance to meet," City Manager Daniel Fitzpatrick said. "I hope high school students especially will capitalize on this chance to broaden their horizons in a fun and engaging setting."
The event begins at 5 p.m., and is free and open to the public, though a $5 donation is requested of those who wish to enjoy the buffet dinner.