A Dublin man who played a major role in the planning and implementation of the British Prime Minister's "New Deal" programme to reduce youth unemployment has been awarded an MBE.
Mr John Deighan (50), formerly from Sandycove, Dublin, now living in East Dolton, Tyne and Wear, was presented with his award this week by the Education and Employment Secretary, Mr David Blunkett.
Mr Deighan, who is married and has three sons, was educated in Dublin and Limerick and graduated from the College of Hotel Management in Shannon in 1974.