FROM WATERFORD TO THE WHITE HOUSE FOR CLAIRE
From Waterford to the White House for Claire
BY: JOHN McCUSKER
OMAGH bomb victim, Claire Gallagher, was given pride of place at a glittering St Patrick's night party in the White House last night.
The young Loreto Convent student who lost her sight as a result of injuries sustained in the blast was invited to the annual showcase celebrations hosted by President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary.
The 15-year-old travelled to the States earlier this week, accompanied by members of her family.
During the star-studded party, pianist Claire joined composer Phil Coulter in a performance of one of his pieces specially chosen for the occasion.
On Thursday night last, Claire was presented with an international award at a ceremony in Waterford City.
The teenager was guest of honour at the annual Peace and Justice Awards which took place at St Angela's Ursultine Convent.
She was presented with a speciallycommissioned piece of Waterford Crystal cut in the form of a grand piano which she accepted on behalf of the people of Omagh.
Award-winning journalist, John Pilger also received an award for his documentaries which highlighted the plight of suppressed communities' worldwide.
During the ceremony, which took place before an audience of 1,500 members of Omagh Community Youth Choir performed from the local Loreto Convent via a live link up with St Angela's Convent.
BY: JOHN McCUSKER
OMAGH bomb victim, Claire Gallagher, was given pride of place at a glittering St Patrick's night party in the White House last night.
The young Loreto Convent student who lost her sight as a result of injuries sustained in the blast was invited to the annual showcase celebrations hosted by President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary.
The 15-year-old travelled to the States earlier this week, accompanied by members of her family.
During the star-studded party, pianist Claire joined composer Phil Coulter in a performance of one of his pieces specially chosen for the occasion.
On Thursday night last, Claire was presented with an international award at a ceremony in Waterford City.
The teenager was guest of honour at the annual Peace and Justice Awards which took place at St Angela's Ursultine Convent.
She was presented with a speciallycommissioned piece of Waterford Crystal cut in the form of a grand piano which she accepted on behalf of the people of Omagh.
Award-winning journalist, John Pilger also received an award for his documentaries which highlighted the plight of suppressed communities' worldwide.
During the ceremony, which took place before an audience of 1,500 members of Omagh Community Youth Choir performed from the local Loreto Convent via a live link up with St Angela's Convent.
Further Information
Publisher: ULSTER HERALD
Ref: UH/1233
Published Date: 18-Mar-99
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