Northern Ireland

Original signed Good Friday Agreement documents goes on tour to mark 25th anniversary of deal

A signed copy of the original Good Friday Agreement will be on display at three libraries over the coming weeks to mark the 25th anniversary of the deal.

The document was signed by representatives of the British and Irish governments but not by negotiators from the north's political parties.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, George Mitchell and Prime Minister Tony Blair
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, George Mitchell and Prime Minister Tony Blair Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, George Mitchell and Prime Minister Tony Blair

Libraries NI has organised the display of the document in Omagh Library on Monday, Belfast's Central Library the following day, and in Derry Central Library on May 30. Spaces can be booked via Eventbrite for the Belfast viewing and by telephoning Omagh or Derry libraries to see the document for the display in those libraries.

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The document, on loan from The National Archives (UK) to the Public Record Office NI, was signed on the afternoon of April 10, 1998, by the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, Secretary of State Mo Mowlam and Dublin's Foreign Minister David Andrews.

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Jim O’Hagan, Libraries NI chief executive, described the tour as "a unique opportunity for people to view this historic document".

"I am delighted we are able to provide access to it in a number of our libraries.  Libraries provide a welcoming environment in the community and whilst in the library people will also be able to connect with other resources such as books, newspaper archives and microfilm all of which provide a wealth of local heritage information," Mr O'Hagan said.

Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern signing the agreement
Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern signing the agreement Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern signing the agreement

Access to view the document will be controlled in 10 minute slots throughout the day with four people allowed in to the room at any time.

Those seeking to view the document in Omagh should telephone 028 8244 0733 before 4pm on Saturday to book a place. Belfast Central Library will be displaying the document from 10am with booking via Evenbrite. Telephone 028 7122 9990 to book a place in Derry.