Prince attends Gaisce awards ceremony

PRINCE EDWARD ends his brief visit to Ireland today as his older sister, Princess Anne, begins her two day trip

PRINCE EDWARD ends his brief visit to Ireland today as his older sister, Princess Anne, begins her two day trip. She will unveil a plaque today at the opening of the new British embassy building in Ballsbridge, Dublin.

In Co Mayo today, the prince will meet participants in Gaisce Gold Awards schemes. Yesterday, as president of the International Award Association, he attended the presentation ceremony in Dublin.

The awards, made by the President, Mrs Robinson, are presented for outstanding achievement in social and community activities.

Prince Edward's father, the Duke of Edinburgh, set up the International Award Association in Britain in 1995. Gaisce was established in 1985 by the former Taoiseach, Mr Charles Haughey. Gold medal winners are people aged between 15 and 25 who have made outstanding achievements in four areas - personal skill development, venture activity, sport and community development.