DERRY, Northern Ireland — The mayor of Derry, Councillor Kathleen McCloskey, officially opened a new Baha'i center in the city on 1 May 2003.

"Your community adds to the richness and diversity of life within this city and I look forward to many more years of Baha'i involvement and good work within the wider community," said Councillor McCloskey.

"Important contributions have been made by the local Baha'i community on the proposed appointment of a Commissioner for Children, and the community has also done sterling work in the struggle to overcome racism, discrimination and prejudice within our city" she said.

The city known variously as Derry and Londonderry is in the north-west of Northern Ireland.