Northern Ireland Office

A playground within the Stormont Estate was today named the ‘Mo Mowlam Children’s Park’ in tribute to the former Northern Ireland Secretary of State.

An ornamental stone was unveiled to commemorate the naming of the park. Secretary of State, Rt Hon Peter Hain MP, said: “I feel honoured to be able to provide this permanent memorial to Mo within the Stormont Estate, where she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of all the people of Northern Ireland. Her achievements, not least the crucial role she played in the signing of the Belfast Agreement, provided a positive legacy for the peace process.

“Mo was not only a remarkable politician but also a person of tremendous warmth and generosity. Her sparkle and informal manner made many people, old and young, feel at ease. It therefore seems appropriate that this symbol has been placed where children play and so that future generations will know her name.”

Among the guests at the unveiling was Mo’s husband Jon Norton. Mr Norton said: “This is a wonderful tribute to Mo. She believed, very strongly that the peace had to be carried on and cemented by the next generations in Northern Ireland. I am very moved to be here and to honour her memory.”

Mo was a strong advocate for opening up the Stormont Estate for public use. The Children’s Park was developed during her time as Secretary of State.

Children from local schools also attended the unveiling of the ornamental stone.

Notes to Editors:

Mo Mowlam died 19 August 2005. She was Secretary of State for Northern Ireland from 1997 to 1999.

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