A trip to the west of Ireland will play an important part in the "healing process" for the girls of Belfast's Holy Cross Primary School who suffered at the hands of loyalist protesters, it was said today.
The Catholic youngsters have been invited to Co Galway at the expense of a hotelier who has promised to show them the better side of human nature.
Scores of people have offered support for next months' visit by around 75 school girls, who were subjected to the daily protests against the route they took to school along the Ardoyne Road.
Chairman of the school governors Father Aidan Troy said the chance for the girls to spend a relaxing holiday, during the school break, as the guests of the Peacocks Hotel in Connemara, would play an important role in restoring a sense of normality.
He said: "After sensing rejection, as they have, it will be magnificent for them to be welcomed with open arms in this way."
Mr Basil Keogh, owner of the Peacocks Hotel, said there had been great local support for the visit by the girls, scheduled for February 10th.
The families will travel by coach to Maam Cross on and will be treated as special guests at the hotel.
On the agenda are sports, games and art with support from local schools. The girls will also visit Connemara National Park, Kylemore Abbey and Galway City.
Meanwhile, Fr Troy said an "uneasy peace" was holding in the Ardoyne.
PA