b'23 2425 26DAy FoUR SATURDAYThe fourth day of the Conference proved that Belfast could not only Finally, delegates made their way to the Mount Stewart House androll out the red carpet for its visitors, but could provide seemingly Gardens for the Conferences closing dinner. Mount Stewart is unlimited sunshine as well. Delegates split into two groups toregarded as one of the top ten gardens in the world and the jewel inexperience the beauty and landscape of Northern Ireland.the crown of the National Trust that now manages it. Private toursOne group went to the Ardglass Golf Club where the friendly of both the house and gardens were given of the property that isbut keenly-competitive Ireland vs. the Rest of the World annual still home to Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.Lady Rose Lauritzentournament was held. In 2013, Ireland had taken the title but this along with her husband Peter welcomed The Ireland Funds to theiryear it was the Rest of the World that roared back to take the home. The Conferences concluding comments were made bynewly-named Glucksman Cup.Kieran McLoughlin, John Fitzpatrick and Dr. Maurice Hayes andThe second group departed for the famed Antrim coast with served to remind those gathered of the importance of their days inguides from the National Trust who provided private narrated tours Northern Ireland. The evenings highlight was the announcementof the local area including the Giants Causeway. Many delegates that a donor, who wished to remain anonymous, had pledged $1hadneverbeforevisitedtheextraordinarypartofNorthernmillion to The American Ireland Funds endowment. The gift willIreland and they enjoyed exploring this beautiful natural wonder. help to strengthen and sustain the Funds work all across the Thegroupthenboardedcoachestovisitthenearbyisland of Ireland.Corrymeela Community. Long-supported by The Ireland Funds Supporters left Belfast with a new understanding of the rolefor their peace and reconciliation work with both sides of thethat The Ireland Funds play in the underpinning of reconciliationcommunity and beyond, the Corrymeela Community had never and investment so key to seeing the Peace Process to fruition. Thebefore seen a formal visit from so many Ireland Funds supporters four days in Belfast undoubtedly strengthened the global Irishat once. It was a fantastic opportunity for delegates to hear from a making a difference together.project about the sustainable difference made by ongoing IrelandFunds funding and support.connect2014 | 58'