Royal Seal of Approval

Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland Chief Executive Iain Carlisle accompanied Youth

Development Officer Gary McAllister on a visit to Hillsborough Castle recently where they received the Institution’s licence from His Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex.

The certificate means that the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland can now formally offer the scheme and accreditation on behalf of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.

Gary McAllister, who has worked hard during his first year in post to develop the range of opportunities for young people to improve their personal and social development, believes this latest initiative has come as a ‘huge boost’ to the Institution.

Mr McAllister said: “Visiting Hillsborough Castle to meet the Earl of Wessex was a great experience. The Earl enquired about the work we were doing and we took the opportunity to explain the Institution’s commitment to young people and community development."

“A lot of young people within our community are already involved in numerous activities which clearly meet the varied criteria for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and we are keen that their activities are recognised and accredited."

“Our aim is to allow young people from the Orange family the opportunity to engage with the world’s most prestigious youth award scheme."

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a unique honour and one which is highly respected by potential employers when processing CV’s and job applications.”

Grand Lodge Chief Executive Iain Carlisle and GOLI Youth Development Officer receiving the licence from HRH the Earl of Wessex

Grand Lodge Chief Executive Iain Carlisle added: “I am delighted that the Institution has been formally granted our licence as a recognised operating authority for the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme."

"The willingness of such a prestigious scheme to work in partnership with Orangeism sends out a very positive message – one which reaffirms the Institution’s role in local society and also highlights our commitment to the support and development of our young people.”

If you or someone you know is interested in undertaking the Duke of Edinburgh award, or if you simply would like more information on it, then contact Gary on 028 9070 1122 or email youth@goli.org.uk.