Unveiling the Hidden Ties Between US and Northern Ireland

The less well-known connections between Northern Ireland and the United States are being emphasised ahead of the 250th anniversary of US independence next year. Connections Deepening

While in Washington DC for St Patrick's Day, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said that he has been highlighting these connections ahead of the major anniversary next July 4. He said that emigrants from what is now Northern Ireland travelled to the US and left 'an incredible mark'. Significant Progress

'We've really strong links. I want to do what I can to exploit that,' he told PA on Thursday. 'I have been working on that, I had a previous trip to the US last year, and as a result of that engagement, we've made significant progress.' Mr Lyons said the group in charge of planning the 250th commemoration is to draft a memorandum of understanding to 'ensure the story of the Ulster Scots is properly told'. Special Role

He said that Northern Ireland will also have a 'special role' at an international commemoration taking place at Mount Vernon next year, the residence of former US president George Washington.