NI's official Centenary programme unveiled
The 100th anniversary of the state's creation is in 2021.
Last updated 12th Mar 2021
The Prime Minister says Northern Ireland's centenary programme will champion young people of the future.
The 100th anniversary of the state's foundation is in 2021, and nationalists and unionists hold sharply differing views of the history of Northern Ireland.
It has emerged the official plans to mark the occasion include a major business showcase in London, a £1,000,000 Shared History Fund, an ambitious programme for young people, tree-planting projects, academic and historic events and an international church service for all denominations.
Boris Johnson said: "2021 marks 100 years since the creation of Northern Ireland, which has paved the way for the formation of the UK as we know it.
"Our centenary programme will reflect on the past and on the people and developments that make Northern Ireland the great place it is today.''
The initiatives reflect the UK Government's commitment under the New Decade New Approach deal which restored Stormont powersharing, to showcase the region more widely.
A total of £1 million has been awarded to 39 community projects to research and demonstrate what 100 years of Northern Ireland has meant to them and their community.
Belfast City Council will host an event at the City Hall marking the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Northern Ireland Parliament in the building on June 22 1921, by King George V.
Every school will be presented with a native tree to plant in their grounds.
They will be encouraged to video their planting ceremony and upload what the Government said was their moment in marking the centenary and working towards a greener future.
An extensive young people's programme will explore what the future will look like in the next 100 years.
Live performance, radio and social media will showcase their hopes and ambitions.
The ""Centenary Rose", a flower the Government said would represent reflection and hope, will be produced in Northern Ireland and planted in the gardens of the royal residence at Hillsborough Castle in Co Down.
A Centenary Rose will be presented to the Queen for her own garden and there will be a decorative rose pin designed and produced in the UK, to be worn by VIPs at centenary events and given to programme participants.
An international church service for all denominations will be held in the autumn, followed by a reception at Hillsborough Castle.
London will host a Northern Ireland 2021 Business Showcase.
Companies and organisations from across the region will promote their products, services and expertise while meeting representatives from international companies, governments and investors.