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NEW statement from DUP Stormont minister for communities: Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced funding of £250,000 for organisations to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The Minister made the announcement during a US/NI Cultural Working Group meeting and hopes the funding will help local organisations celebrate the heritage links between Northern Ireland and the United States in the run up to the 250th anniversary. Minister Lyons said: “We have always had strong cultural and historical bonds with the United States with early settlers from Northern Ireland playing a significant role in communities across the US.  To highlight this landmark 250 year anniversary, I will be providing £250,000 of funding to ensure Northern Ireland can celebrate this historic event. “During a recent trip to Washington, I met with representatives from America250, the Congressional Commission planning the 250th anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, to discuss how Northern Ireland can play a key role in the celebrations. These ongoing discussions have further strengthened the high-level, collaborative relationships we have, and I am keen to explore practical ways we can continue to work with the US/NI Working Group to celebrate the anniversary and give a voice to our shared heritage. “The celebrations planned in 2026 offer a fantastic opportunity for Northern Ireland to be part of this historic milestone, to strengthen relationships with the US and promote our shared cultural connections.  This funding announcement will encourage more local people to celebrate our place in the founding of modern America and to mark the global impact of the Declaration of Independence.”