Using IRDA port in STR91x

I have a strange problem: I have downloaded a sourcecode for IRDA testing on STR912 development board. I am able to compile the program and it works fine. However, when I make my own program and initiate the UART1 port, it does not work. I am using the demo software libraries provided at ST website. I am not sure if I am missing some dependencies ? I cannot even enable the GPIOs when I initiate the UART1. This happens only when I initiate the UART, and not otherwise.

Can somebody help me please.

Thaks in advance