New stamp celebrates cultural diversity

The first stamp celebrating cultural diversity in Ireland was launched today.

The 55 cent stamp issued by An Post coincides with the 2008 European Year of Intercultural Dialogue (EY/ID).

Performing today’s launch, Minister for Integration Conor Lenihan said: “It recognises and celebrates the valuable resource that diversity brings to our society.”

The National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI) said the stamp gives a very visible sign that Ireland is committed to promoting intercultural dialogue in Ireland.

Other events marking EY/ID include six weeks of storytelling sessions for children at Dublin’s Chester Beatty Library.

“The participating children build language skills, confidence, arts awareness and multicultural understanding through highlighting commonality and celebrating difference,” said a spokesman.