Irish Peace Process Cultural & Training (Walsh Visa) Program

The Walsh Visa Program is the product of legislation passed by US Congress to build upon the promise of the 1998 Good Friday Peace Agreement. It aims to unite vulnerable young adults from the most divided and disadvantaged areas of Northern Ireland and the Border Counties. Through short-term work and training opportunities, the Walsh Visa program affords participants the chance to cultivate job skills, discover life in America and broaden their worldview.

On a greater scale, the program encourages the continuance of positive change and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

The IIC was chosen to serve as the Boston Hub of the program. Our efforts, coupled with the commitment of over 80 companies throughout greater Boston, provide participants with a full-time job, a place to stay and a support network to encourage them in their progress. Regular personal and professional development training and frequent social activities ensure that every program participant has every chance to achieve what they wish.

250 young men and women have participated in the Boston program since 2001. A difference has been made in the life of each one.

In Their Own Words

Walsh Visa Program Participant Quotes

• "On the program we are not British or Irish but we are all Walsh Visa participants. Applying to the program was the best decision I ever made." Mark Davis
• "To expand your worldview is one of the most interesting and exciting things you can do for yourself. Adapting to a different culture has taught me a lot about others and myself." Joanna Love
• "I think you can look at the situation in Northern Ireland a bit differently because you see much bigger differences in the US." Dessie Forbes
• "Now that I am far removed [from Belfast] I see that Northern Ireland issues are not that special; there are too many countries to name where there is a lot more turmoil." Tom McCloskey
• "The Program has given me the opportunity to become independent and the support to do it. People at home are often more reserved and more closed, which makes changing and integrating more difficult." Suzanne Landy
• "Had it not been for my involvement in this excellent journey, God only knows where I would be now." Gerry Phillips

For more information on the program, please email questions@iicenter.org or visit www.walshvisa.net