The West Belfast Classical Bursary has over the past eight years established itself as a significant event in the cultural life not only in Belfast but further a field.

The Bursary has succeeded in attracting the very best young talent to perform in West Belfast. It has raised standards and it is creating an audience for excellence in the area. In doing so, it has established West Belfast in the public mind as a center of vitality and excitement in the Arts.

It has opened windows of the imagination and it has widened the horizons for many young people.

That this should have been done by a small number of people on slender resources, giving of their time, energy and dedication should be an inspiration to all who wish to promote high standards in the arts away from the great concert halls and mainstream centers.

Because this pursuit of excellence, this capacity to build in and for the community, their purpose to enrich cultural life and give people a 'sense of achievement of their own worth and dignity', accords with its own aims and objectives, The Ireland Funds feel privileged this year again to be allowed to assist in the work.

In doing so they pay tribute to Angela Feeney, an international artist who is reinvesting her talents, her enthusiasm and her musical appreciation in her native City and in her own community. It is a particular pleasure and a privilege to be associated with her in this endeavor.

- Senator Maurice Hayes