Sunday, February 13, 2011

`Vast possibilities' open to Ireland - Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama has said ''vast possibilities are available to the people of Ireland'' in a message delivered in advance of his planned visit to Ireland in April.

The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader has called for Irish people to demonstrate courage and hope. 

''Our world is in turmoil but this also provides an opportunity for true transformation towards peace, justice and happiness if we show courage and hope,'' he said.

The Dalai Lama's message comes ahead of his April 13-14 visit in support of the new Possibilities 2011 social change initiative, which is being launched by three non-profit organisations; Children in Crossfire, SpunOut.ie, and Afri.

''It is my hope that Possibilities 2011 will open up a space of dialogue, action and reflection and strengthen the realisation that vast possibilities are available to the people of Ireland at this time,'' the Dalai Lama said.

During his visit, the Dalai Lama will deliver a talk entitled A Call For Universal Responsibility at a major national Social Forum at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin on April 13, which also includes Mary Robinson. 

He will then visit Kildare, in partnership with the Solas Bhríde Centre, where he will speak on The Spirituality of Compassion, before concluding his visit on Thursday April 14 with a talk entitled The Power of Forgiveness at the University of Limerick.