AN INTERNATIONAL competition to design and construct a "peace monument" on the Border between Dundalk and Newry is to start shortly, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern said yesterday.
He said the monument would mark the "dramatic strides" that have been made in building peace in Ireland, and honour those who contributed to the process.
It is envisaged the monument will be on a similar scale to The Spire in Dublin or the Angel of the North in Britain, and become a major tourism attraction.
Mr Ahern said its site would be at the former customs post at Carrickarnon, north of Dundalk, and a few metres from the Border.
He said this was an appropriate moment to mark the progress that had been made in bringing peace to the island of Ireland.
"Many people from a wide range of backgrounds have contributed to the ending of conflict and the realisation of peace, and it is fitting to honour and recognise that collective achievement through public art in an appropriate setting.
"I very much hope that the exceptional success of the peace process will resonate with its audience on two levels - to never, ever be complacent about our hard-won peace, and to look towards a brighter future, one of exciting new possibilities for the island and its people."
He said the decision to erect the monument was a commitment made in the Programme for Government.
At Arbour Hill last April the Taoiseach said it would "stand as a symbol of the achievements of all communities and individuals who have worked so hard to deliver peace these past decades.
"It will send out a clear message to the coming generations - that the peace we have built is to be cherished. It should never be taken for granted."
An expert jury to include appropriate representation from Northern Ireland will assess the entries. It is also hoped to explore the potential for a programme of North/South artistic and educational activities inspired by the monument.
The monument is expected to be erected by 2010.