Issue No. 37 Summer 2012 FREE NEWSLETTER President Michael D.Higgins attends FORUM Connemara display of LEADER Funded Projects Pictured above are Councillor Eileen Mannion, John Coyne FORUM CEO, President Michael D.Higgins, Mrs. Sabina Higgins, Joe Conaty and Karen Mannion, Leader project workers. President Michael D. Higgins & his wife Sabina visited the FORUM display in Ellis Hall, Letterfrack when he opened the annual Irish Rural Link Conference on 11th May 2012. The President complemented FORUM on its delivery of a wide variety of projects & services to youth, the elderly, under & unemployed and a large number of community groups & individuals who have availed of LEADER funding which included traditional music & heritage projects, artisan food projects, and a variety of festivals which are taking place during the summer of 2012.
Transcript
Issue No. 37Summer 2012 FREENEWSLETTERPresident Michael D.Higgins attends
FORUM Connemara display ofLEADER Funded Projects
Pictured above are Councillor Eileen Mannion, John Coyne FORUM CEO, President Michael D.Higgins,Mrs. Sabina Higgins, Joe Conaty and Karen Mannion, Leader project workers.
President Michael D. Higgins & his wife Sabina visited theFORUM display in Ellis Hall, Letterfrack when he opened theannual Irish Rural Link Conference on 11th May 2012. ThePresident complemented FORUM on its delivery of a wide varietyof projects & services to youth, the elderly, under & unemployedand a large number of community groups & individuals who haveavailed of LEADER funding which included traditional music &heritage projects, artisan food projects, and a variety of festivalswhich are taking place during the summer of 2012.
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The Local & Community Development Programme (LCDP)is managed by POBAL on behalf of the Department ofCommunity, Environment and Local Government. It formspart of the National Development Plan 2007 – 2013. FORUM administers LCDP in non Gaeltacht Connemaraand has been asked by POBAL to manage LCDP inGaeltacht Connemara for a six month period.The groups targeted by FORUM, underLCDP are as follows: older people, youngpeople and families, asylum seekers,community groups, people with disability,under and unemployed, lone parents. AimLCDP aims to tackle poverty and socialexclusion through partnership betweenGovernment and people in the mostdisadvantaged communities.
Programme GoalsThere are four key goals under LCDP:GOAL 1: Promote awareness, knowledge and uptake of awide range of statutory, voluntary and community services:GOAL 2: Increase access to formal and informaleducational, recreational and cultural activities and resourcesGOAL 3: Increase in people’s work readiness andemployment prospectsGOAL 4: Promote engagement with policy, practice, and
decision-making processes on matters affecting local communities.
The Local & Community Development Programme (LCDP) in the Connemara Gaeltacht
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Men minding their health This March FORUM organised a ‘Mens Health’ talk in theStation House Hotel Clifden. Speakers at the event wereDr. John Casey from Clifden Medical Practice who gavean informative talk on men’s general health and relatedissues and Mr Eamonn Rogers Consultant Urologist withUniversity College Hospital Galway who presented astraight forward and enlightening talk on men’s cancersand in particular prostate health.
The evening was well attended with good interactionbetween the audience and the doctors with participantsgiving very positive feedback from the event. FORUMintend to offer a similar Men’s Health talk in theOughterard /Killannin area in the Autumn. AONTAS, Irish National Association of Adult EducationSTAR Awards In February FORUM, together with participants andpartners from the VEC and HSE West, made apresentation in Galway to the regional judging panel forthe AONTAS STAR Awards 2012 on the Home andGarden programme which was run in Clifden.
The project was shortlisted as one of seven inConnaught for an excellence award. Two weeks later inDublin a national STAR Awards ceremony was held andattended by President Higgins.
The programme did not win a regional award but didreceive a letter of commendation for best practice in adulteducation. Congratulations to all involved. RCR The Roundstone Cashel Recess (RCR) men’s groupcommittee continue to work with FORUM in developinginitiatives to support isolated men living in Roundstoneparish. During the Spring the group organised twoeducational talks in the Roundstone Hall on PersonalTax/Farm Accounts with Declan Mannion and Genealogywith Michael Reynolds which participants found interestingand informative.
The group also participated in the “Galway Age FriendlyCounty” initiative facilitated by Mick Curley Galway SportsPartnership with their session focused on the needs ofolder men. The organising committee are planning to holda number of social outings over the summer.
The first of these will be attending the Vintage Rally inMountbellew at the end of July. Members are lookingforward to this event as it proved to be a great successlast year.
For more information on this and the other social eventsplanned call Anita, FORUM office Clifden 095- 21741.
ClifdenCitizens Information Centre There have been many changes to the social welfarepayments & supports that many people in Ireland rely onfor income and now is a good time to find out how thesechanges affect you and your family.
Earlier this year, significant changes were made to thePRSI (‘stamp’) contributions for the Contributory StatePension, and you now need at least 520 paid contributions- as well as an average amount worked out over yourworking life – before you qualify for this. In Septembersome of the payment rates are being changed, and thiswill affect claimants who do not have the maximumaverage.
The One Parent Family Payment has also beenchanged; the upper age limit of the youngest child for newclaimants is now 12, and the amount of money you canearn from employment before your One Parent FamilyPayment is affected has been reduced to €130 per week.Other changes include the following:Some income from Carer’s Allowance & Benefit is nowincluded in the Family Income Supplement means testThe Transition Pension, which is now paid at age 65, willnot be paid after 31st December 2013The Fuel Allowance is now payable for 26 weeks (was 32weeks)
Don’t forget that, in addition to social welfare, we alsohave access to information on employment rights andlegislation, and this information is relevant to employersand employees alike.
So whatever information it is you need with regard tosocial welfare or employment, consumer affairs, educationor housing, please feel free to contact us in ClifdenCitizens Information Centre.
We have many free booklets & brochures in stock,including ‘Employment Rights Explained’, Information forschool leavers,’ ‘Supports and Information for the Self-employed.’
Please note our new telephone number is 0761 077 580For free, confidential and impartial information on all yourrights and entitlements, contact Clifden CitizensInformation Service. Tel: 0761 077 580 & 087 1301100 / Email:[email protected]: Thursday 7pm to 8pm, Friday 1030am to 330pm2nd Floor, Cashel/Connemara Credit Union, ClifdenInformation is also available online atwww.citizensinformation.ie and from the CitizensInformation Phone Service on 0761 074 000.
Two workers have beenemployed to administer LCDPin Gaeltacht Connemara Gearoid deFaoite – 087 6921211Mairead Uí Dhomhnaill – 087 7952747
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At the end of May,Loughwell FarmPark in Moycullenreceived a visitfrom the parentsand children ofClifden Parent andToddler Group.
The families hadgreat fun feedingthe animals andvisiting the playvillage; using theswings, slides,bouncy castlesand the parentsenjoyed awelcome rest atthe picnic area. Allthoroughlyenjoyed the fun-filled day.
The groupcontinue to meetevery Wednesdayfrom 10.30am – 12noon on the FirstFloor over the CashelConnemara CreditUnion Clifden.
Parents find thisa welcomingspace where, overa cup of coffee,they can relax,share experiences,make new friendsand take time outof their dailyroutines. Thegroup plan in earlySeptember toparticipate in thePEEP Programmeorganised by theGalway City andCounty ChildcareCommittee.
This is an eightto ten weekprogramme andencouragesinteractive andinnovative waysfor parents to playwith their youngchildren.
If you areinterested inattending pleasecome to theweekly sessionsas you are mostwelcome!
“What is assertivecommunication? was thequestion explored by thenine women who attendedthe six week AssertivenessSkills Course in Letterfrackwith facilitator ClionaSheehan.
Cliona explained that“during this course womenexamine assertivenesstheory, their lifeexperiences and explorehow assertivecommunication can be auseful tool in enabling themto break old patterns andexplore new ways ofbeing.” Course topicsincluded Listening,
Stress and differentcommunication styles; Howto be present and give youropinion ; The benefits togiving and receivingfeedback ; Exploring how tosay NO and YES withoutguilty and finally, theyexamined how beliefbarriers affect their livesand self-esteem.
One participant EithneO’Halloran gives herimpression … “Coming to the course wewere hoping to improve ourassertiveness skills in lotsof different areas of ourlives from dealing withemployers, family andhealth professionals tobecoming more assertive inour parenting skills. Key toall these was improving ourcommunication skills .
“The course waschallenging but mostly lotsof fun and at times was areal eye opener on our ownbehaviour and parentingpatterns. The group arehoping to go forward in theAutumn and takeadvantage of more learningopportunities. I wouldrecommend this type ofcourse as a good startingpoint for anyone who wantsto gain some moreconfidence and directionsin their life”. FORUM intend to offer thisprogramme in the Autumnin the Oughterard /Killaninnarea. If you are interestedin attending please callCathy Keane 095-41117.
Clifden Parent and Toddler Group Down on the Farm Gaining Confidencethrough betterCommunication
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We are a support group ofparents of children withdisabilities. Our group iscalled Paving The Way.Being the parent of a childwith a disability canbe quite a challenge.However sharingyour experiencesand problems withothers in the samesituation can be veryhelpful and reassuring. Weexchange tips andinformation about where togo for help and also promoteactivities, such as swimmingand horse-riding which canbenefit our children.We meet on the FirstThursday of every monthfrom 11am to 12 noon for aninformal chat over a cup oftea or coffee in the CashelCredit Union office, TheSquare, Clifden (besideGannon’s Sports). We areon the 2nd floor, entrance tothe side of building.Please join us you are mostwelcome!
Paving the wayFORUM coordinated mental health seminar in Clifden in November last. This particularprogramme was highlighted as being very useful in assisting those experiencing mentalhealth difficulties.
Since then the AWARE Depression Support Group Letterfrack and FORUM have beenworking towards bringing the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) program to thearea.
In April a two day workshop was delivered in Clifden by Liam Minogue. WRAP encourages participants to develop an understanding that they have personal
resources that they can use to direct their own wellness and help themselves stay welland feel better.
It offers hope and encourages personal responsibility and self-advocacy through thedevelopment of individual wellness tools, including finding and keeping a strong supportsystem and building a lifestyle that promotes wellness.
It deals with the effects of trauma, looks at suicide prevention, self-esteem andchanging negative thought patterns to positive ones. Participants stated they found theprogramme very beneficial as they learned new approaches and life skills that theyintend to apply in their everyday lives.
WRAP - Supporting mental health
‘Buy a chair for the Hall’ - Clifden Town Hall Since 2000 ARC – Clifdenhave been working steadilyon the conservation,renovation andrefurbishment of the TownHall.
The first phase, the youthspace and conference roomwere completed in 2009.With this year the groupbeing awarded a LEADERgrant of €236,504 uponsecuring matching funding.
The original estimate forthis phase was €4000,000however this had to bepaired back to meet theavailable funding soessential items were
prioritised; a new roof,restoration of originalwindow at the rear andreplicas installed at the frontof the building, a new floor,wiring, plumbing, heating,gutters, facia board, doorsand painting. All of theabove works beingcompleted by July.
They have, it must besaid much to celebrate!
However, there is onefinal push to be made toraise funds towards the fitout of the building in orderto make the hall a fullyfunctional communityspace.
The items needed includepurchase of 200 chairs,renovation of stage andnew curtains, a bathroomupgrade and softfurnishings.
Putting their headstogether the group havecome up with a novelfundraising idea called….‘Buy a chair for the Hall’programme.
A donation of €100 perhousehold in the area isnow being sought (details ofpayment options areoutlined in the letter sentto each household).
In this Clifden’sbicentenary year ARC arecalling on a meithealapproach to complete thisproject so that futuregenerations will be able tolook back at the communityof 2012 and say how proudthey are that they keptClifden’s community hallgoing for another 100years!
Those who do help theproject financially will berecorded on a speciallycommissioned plaque whichwill be unveiled at theofficial opening of the hall.
FORUM Board ofDirectors with CountyGalway Mayor andBoard member ThomasWelby
DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP - Letterfrack
The Depression Support Group will continue tomeet on the first Thursday of each month over
the summer months. Venue: Conference room FORUM
Time: 8 pm.ression Support Group will continueto meet on the first Thursday of each month over
the summer months. Venue: Conference room FORUM
Time: 8 pm.
Following on from asuccessful first phase ofthis programme an excitingnew nine week gardeningprogramme commenced inMay with the twelveparticipants each taking ona project in their owngarden or outdoor space to‘makeover’.
The programme iscoordinated by Maire UiEanaigh VEC and CathyKeane FORUM with themain tutor Daniela Guderowner of the Art ofBlooming in Moycullen.
The VEC centre inOughterard provided thebase for indoor learningsessions and two of theparticipants gardens wereused as the outdoorclassrooms.
The sessions were givenon different aspects ofdeveloping gardening aswell as additional sessionson flower arranging,bringing the outdoors in,learning how to grow theirown herbs.
Guest speakersincluded fruit andvegetables growing withJoe Conaty andintroduction to bee keeping with Coleen Gilmore.
A field trip to KylemoreAbbey & Gardens was alsoarranged where the groupmet Anja Gohlke HeadGardener who took themaround the Victorian walledgarden, and despite the‘midges’ were able to get first hand adviceon different plants, herbsand vegetables of interest.
The group were alsohosted by Clann FamilyResource Centre at theirpremises in Station Road,Oughterard where AnneO'Shaughnessycoordinator gave them anoverview of thedevelopment of theLEADER supportedcommunity garden. Annestated that on Mondayevenings over the summerhorticulturist Kay Synottwill lead gardeningsessions on a varietyof gardening topics and tocontact Clann for moredetails 091-557633 on this.
Congratulations to allwho completed theirprojects.
Home and Garden Programme Oughterard - ‘ The GARDEN’
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FORUM Adolescent Support Project National Schools
Since the last edition of thenewsletter, FORUM has delivered sixeight week After School Activity Clubsto Ballyconneely, Kingstown,Letterfrack and Cashel NationalSchool; and two programmes to ScoilMhuire Clifden, due to a highernumber of students there.
The main emphasis of theseprogrammes is to enhance theparticipants self esteem throughpositive group work and to offeralternative experiences and developnew skills around outdoor education.
At the end of the programmes thechildren went on an outing to theKillary Adventure centre to engage incombat laser questing and the KillaryChallenge. Seventy young peopletook part in these programmes.
In addition to the After Schools Activityclubs four eight week one hour juniorarts programmes have been deliveredto thirty two children during school termin Ballyconneely, Kingstown, Casheland Letterfrack National Schools.
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Rainbows is a peer-support programmeto assist children who are grieving adeath, separation or painful transition intheir family.
This programme helps by providing asafe setting in which participants cantalk through their feelings with otherswho are experiencing similar situations.
Two ten week programmes have beendelivered to ten children of two differentage groups in the Clifden area during theperiod February to June.
Briefing on the Children’s First Guidelines
An information session on the new Children’s First Guidance for theProtection and Welfare of Children 2011 was been held in LeenaneCommunity Hall on the 23rd of February. The presentation was givenby Brid Bourke Children’s First of the HSE and Marie Feeney,FORUM. Fifteen people from the Leenane area attended.
Jigsaw and Friends Servicesfor Young PeopleThe Jigsaw & Friends monthly service inClifden has held five sessions during theperiod of February – June to cater foryoung people between the ages of 15-25years, providing advice and support aroundmental health issues.
A focus group of young people met inMay to look at the service and discuss theirperceptions and ways to improve it. Therecommendations proposed will bediscussed at a meeting with the serviceproviders in July.
FORUM has attended County Galway Sports Partnerships meetingsduring the past six months. The Sports Partnership will be involvementthis year in the Forum Youth in Action Summer Camps for the 7-12 years age group. The children on the camps will be introduced tohurling.
The project is currently taking part in the National Quality StandardsFramework for Youth Work which is being assessed by the VECOfficer Louise Ryan.
The project has submitted a Self-Assessment Report andevidence of what is currently in place and this is being reviewed bythe Youth Officer. In addition to the work submitted an observationpractice was also carried out with staff in an After Schools SchoolProgramme.
The rational for the development of the NQSF initiative is:– To provide a support and development tool to youth workorganisations providing services to children and young people;– To establish standards in the practice and provision of youth work;– To provide an enhanced evidence base for youth work – To ensure resources are used effectively in the youth work sector;– To provide a basis for the ‘whole organisations assessment.
National Quality Standards Framework
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FORUM delivered seven, two hour courseson Archery to sixty two transition yearstudents of St Paul’s Secondary SchoolOughterard. The Transition Year headwanted the students to experience differenttypes of sport as part of an overall healthylifestyle programme which FORUM fundedthrough the LCDP programme.
Galway County VEC has set upan advisory committee on youthin Galway County and FORUMhas been invited to participate.
One meeting has been held sofar this year. FORUM alsoparticipates on the CountyDevelopment Board CountyYouth Action group, whichmeets regularly to promoteyouth activities in CountyGalway.
In February, the AdolescentSupport Programme team leadergave a presentation on theproject work to Connemara nonGaeltacht Area CountyCommunity forum.
Archery Workshops
Advisory Groups
Three meetings have been held inGalway with ten young people fromthis area with the Galway Comhairlena nOg group; and two meetings inClifden over the months January toJune. The group planned anddelivered a local young people’s event
during the month of March. The aim of these meetings is to
bring young people together to discussissues that they face and bringrecommendations for change toanother group called Dail na nOg, whoare linked to the National Government.
Young people from this area cannow have their say on issues thataffect them, not only locally butnationally.
Galway County Council provided agrant towards the running of theComhairle na nOg group.
Youth Representative Group/ Comhairle na nOg
Child Protection TrainingA Child protection trainingcourses were delivered on the26 and 27th of April by MarieFeeney and Brid Bourke,Childrens First Officer of theHealth Service Executive, in theStation House Hotel to cater forlocal organisations who workwith children/young people inNorth West Connemara. Thecourse is called “Keeping Safe”.
It enables the participants tobecome aware of childprotection issues and workpractices; policy and procedure for reportingsuspected or disclosed abuse;the development of codes ofbehaviour for staff andvolunteers; procedures inrelation to taking youngpeople/children away on dayand residential outings; and
finally the participants becomeaware of child protection anddisability.
Twenty two participants fromForum Youth in Action, YouthReach, VTOS, and localorganisations completed the twoday course.
Participants on the courseagreed to volunteer time onsummer camps and communityevents i.e. Youth in Action FunRuns.
Clifden Community SchoolTwo eight-week personaldevelopment programme has beendelivered to sixteen students ofClifden Community School. Thisprogramme is quiet similar to theNational Schools programme.
However the content is focusedmore intensively on personaldevelopment activities using arts,team challenges, problem solvingexercises and sport as a media.
This particular programme issupported by North and WestSchool Completion Programme.
Clifden Transition YearProgramme Camping Trip Support was provided to ClifdenCommunity School Transition YearProgramme to go on two camping trips.FORUM provided the campingequipment and support in relation to thecare of equipment when out camping.Sixteen young people took part in thecamping field trips.
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Fun Runs
Youth in Action
The annual Fun Runs tookplace in Cleggan/Claddaghduffand Letterfrack on 27th Mayand in Roundstone on 3rdJune with over 600 peopletaking part. These events wereconcluded with lightrefreshments, prize giving, anopen air disco, bouncingcastles, face painting, sportevents, fun and games for allthe family. FORUM would oncelike to thank all those who tookpart, the young people whocollected sponsorship, thevolunteers who helped on theday and the sponsors of thevarious events.
Summer Camps Primary SchoolsThe Youth in Action 7+ Summercamps will be held in July andAugust. All children must beregistered before camps; registrationforms were distributed through theschools. Venues and dates are asfollows – Cashel National SchoolMonday 2nd to Friday 6th July,Claddaghduff National SchoolMonday 9th to Friday 13th July,Tullycross Community Hall Monday16th to Friday 20th July, ClifdenCommunity Gym Monday 23rd toFriday 27th July and RoundstoneCommunity Hall Monday 30th July toFriday 3rd August.
The Cumann na mBunscol Gaelic Football finalswas held on the 14th June in Oughterard.
The majority of National Schools in the areaparticipated and the standard of football washigh.
Division 1 (boys) Oughterard came firstLetterfrack were runners up and Roscahill A wonthe plate.
Division 1 (girls) Cloughbrack A came first,Eagles Nest were runners up and Clifden A wonthe plate. Division 2 (boys) Cashel came firstRoscahill B were runners up and Oughterard Bwon the plate.
Division 2 (girls) Clonbur came first,Claddaghduff were runners up and Clifden B wonthe plate.
CalendarThis year the Youth in Action Calendar willbe compiled during August. We arerequesting the help of the people of NorthWest Connemara in supplyingphotographs of interesting events, such asschools photographs, sport and socialgatherings, historical events, or old scenicphotographs. If you can helpplease forward yourphotographs as soonas possible toKathleendeCourcey atFORUMConnemaraLtd. EllisHall,Letterfrack.
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Cycling Safety Safer Cycling Initiative in conjunction withYouth in Action held a Cycling Safety coursein Claddaghduff, Roundstone and ClegganNational Schools during May with 50 childrenparticipating.
Bealach( Rural Transport initiative)Ballinakill Active Age Club Mini Bus and one private operator continueto provide the Bealach Transport Service four days per week in NWConnemara. The service is provided for people with reduced mobilityand passengers who have no suitable public transport service. Theservice brings clients to Day Care, Lunch Clubs and Shopping etc.More information on services can be obtained by calling 095 41064.Other Bealach services operating in North West Connemara are asfollows:– A weekly service in Cleggan/Claddaghduff to facilitate the ClegganLunch Club, with up to 12 people availing of this service.– A weekly service is running every Friday morning throughRoundstone to Ballyconneely to link with the older peoples coffeemorning.– A weekly Friday service from Cashel to Recess bringing older peopleto the Post Office.– A daily service from Clifden to Letterfrack to bring students to YouthReach in Letterfrack.– A weekly service on Thursday from Cashel, Roundstone,Ballyconneely to Clifden.More information on services can be obtained by calling Bealachdirectly on 087 6342352.
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Disability SupportDisability Support continues to be available through the Social Care Programme. The service is based in the Letterfrackoffice and offers information and form filling service to clients with disability. Information on Disability support bycontacting 095 41064 or 087 9633970
SecurityThe Socially Monitored Alarms Systems continue to be installed in the NW Connemara. As a result of increased demandon funding the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government will only be providing funding for thepurchase and insulation of socially monitored alarms. No other security objects will be funded at present. Clients interested in receiving a service should contact 087 9633970
Traditional Craft ClubFORUM Social Care Programmein conjunction with BallinakillActive Age Club host an OpenHouse Traditional Craft Eventevery Wednesday in Ellis Hall,Letterfrack. The purpose of thisclub is to have a space for likeminded people to meet up, learnor pass on skills to others. Thegroup hope to continue hostingthe craft club throughout thesummer months. For more information contactMartina Gavin 087 9633970 orJean Wallace 086 3087619.
Ballinakill Community Catering/FORUM Meals on WheelsThis service provides a nutritious meal to older people living independently in North West Connemara. The Ballinakillcommunity catering meals are prepared in Ellis Hall and delivered by the CE Workers to the older person’s door. Atpresent meals are delivered to Clifden, Cleggan, Claddaghduff, Moyard, Renvyle and Kylemore area. Ballyconneely andRecess meals are delivered through the CE workers and Local catering business, Leenane Meals are delivered fromLeenane Community centre by voluntary workers. For further information contact 095 41064 / 087 9633970.
Resource Groups All eleven resource groups continue to meet at coffee mornings and lunch clubs. All groups were successful in securingfunding from the HSE under the Section 39 funding application. The groups enjoy weekly activities which can includeKeep Fit, Arts Crafts, Music, Cards and Bingo. In June the Annual trip to Knock was enjoyed by Roundstone,Ballyconneely, Clifden, Cluid, Leenane and Recess. The Golden Years and Recess Active Age Club took part in paintingclasses with Cathal O’Malley. Recess held an art exhibition in Lough Inagh Lodge. The Golden Years and Cluid attendedthe Bealtaine Reminiscence Day in May. The Golden Years used this opportunity to exhibit their art. To celebrate StPatricks Day members of Ballinakill Active Age Club had an outing to Maol Reidh Hotel Tullycross. This group also wenton an outing to Westport in May.
Carer Companion Service. Up to fifty older people are availing of this service in non Gaeltacht Connemara, where Social Care workers visit thehome and provide transport for shopping, doctors visits etc. This service targets, in particular, vulnerable individuals whoare experiencing loneliness, it encourages independence and increases participation in community.
Laundry Service This service is currently in operation in Letterfrack and Leenane four days per week. The main users of the service arethe elderly, carers, lone parents and students. Funds from the service help to provide valuable funding for the running ofthe Meals on Wheels service.
Clifden Day HospitalFORUM Social Care Programme continues to support the work carried out by the Clifden Day Care in the provision ofElderly Day Care services. The social care workers assist with the transport service and activities at the centre. The role of the Day Care is to facilitate and prolong independent living. It is attached to Clifden Hospital and run by theHealth Service Executive.
Social Care Programme
Mary Curley, Margaret O'Malley, Myra Conneelyand Beryl Davern
Jan Barry
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FORUM Connemara Ltd, through the LEADER programme, supports anumber of Community Festivals and Events throughout the year.
Despite the recession, and the not always great weather, several local events and festivals have already been successfully
staged this year in the North West Connemara region.
The CLIFDEN TRADITIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL (clifdentradfest.com)13th -15th April, was officially opened by Roundstone resident, andinternationally renown composer, Bill Whelan. The opening concert atthe Station House Hotel, in Clifden, was “packed to the rafters” withparticipants, their families, friends and supporters.
The weekend long Irish music festival, now in its third year, attractedbig audiences who were entertained by local musicians and dancers,as well as by invited musicians from around Ireland. One of the
highlights of thefestival was theSaturday eveningperformance on the “Gig Rig” (specially constructed portable stage) inClifden’s market square, where the award winning, Sligo based, DartryCéilí Band performed along with a host of local singers and dancers.
During the weekend the musicians, singers and dancers entertainedthe home crowd and the many visitors to the town of Clifden. Therewere day time music sessions, workshops, a traditional music massand numerous impromptu sessions in pubs through the town.
CLIFDEN 200(clifden2012.org) is a
year long calendar of special eventsin Clifden town, which is celebratingits 200th birthday in 2012. Thefestivities culminated in a ten dayfestival between 25th May - June 4th2012. One of the highlights of thefirst weekend was a traditionalBoats Regatta in Clifden Bay. Huge
crowds enjoyed the glorioussunshine and the spectacle of Clifden Bay full of the colourfulGalway hookers. Other events included a ‘Connemara beforeClifden’ seminar, field trips and talks, illustrating Clifden’s historical and archaeologicallinks led by Michael Gibbons and Shane Joyce. As part of the seminar on 19th CenturyTown Development, local writer and historian, Kathleen Villiers Tuthill spoke about thefounder of Clifden, John D’Arcy and his legacy. Other happenings included a conference
on genealogy, many musicalevenings, a street party and an artisanfood street market which saw thestreets of the town come alive withvery local food producers andsuppliers showcasing their produceand offering opportunities to thepublic, to sample their wares. Moreevents are scheduled throughout theremainder of 2012. Check out thewebsite.
Clifden 200
Clifden Traditional Music Festival
PHOTOS: IRENE KING STAUNTONPHOTOS: TERENCE O’TOOLE
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This year's May Bank Holidayweekend saw the first of the Summerfestivals kick off in style. TheCONNEMARA MUSSEL FESTIVAL(www.connemaramusselfestival.com)took place over the Bank HolidayWeekend, from the 4th - 6th May, inTullycross, and attracted a greatattendance.
The official opening was by MinisterMichael Ring T.D. Minister of State atthe Department of Transport, Tourismand Sport. The core attraction of thefestival is the celebration of Mussels;and the weekend saw them cooked,and served up, in a variety ofmouthwatering styles, by professional chefs and some very talented local amateur chefs.
The festival marquee also hosted a wide variety of stalls selling local produce and handcrafts; there was an artexhibition of work by local artists and also a variety of walks, talks and theatre over the weekend.
Also on the May Bank Holiday weekend,Leenane village was alive with over 300walkers and cyclists, who had allcongregated to take part in the LEENANEHILL WALKING FESTIVAL(www.leenanevillage.com). The weekendsaw walkers from far and wide, taking on avariety of walks including, includingMweelrea, the Twelve Bens and Ben Gorm.There was also a guided cycle on bothdays; an archaeological walk with MichaelGibbons and an Art and PhotographyExhibition in the Leenane Community Hall.The exhibition included recently foundwatercolours by William Evans, depictingLeenane before the Famine.
CONAMARA BOG WEEK(www.ceece.org) which tookplace from 25th May - 4thJune kicked off at theConnemara National Park on4th with ‘Take Four’launched by artist andteacher, Mo West, andfeaturing the work of fourlocal artists; Bernie Dignam,Laura Cull, Gemma Coyneand Jay Murphy.
Curated by Leo Hallissey,the festival featurednumerous concerts and pubgigs in the Letterfrack andRenvyle area; walking tripswith archaeologist JohnO'Halloran and ecologistMags Flaherty. A vibrantschools programme tookplace with well knownartist/ecologist GordonD'arcy and ecologist MichaelJacob and involved scores ofchildren celebrating theConnemara landscape with field trips, drawing sessions and exploration.
Young people also featured at the Mol an Oige Concert on Sunday 3rdJune in Letterfrack Church. Over 60 young musicians were joined byEast Galway group, 'Macalla' at Letterfrack Church.
All of these events celebrating our culture and heritage, make best useof our local and natural resources. They are run by enthusiastic and hardworking committee members who volunteer their time and skills tocoordinate and create these wonderful community led events.
The Connemara Mussel Festival
Leenane Hill Walking Festival
Conamara Bog Week
SIOBHAN BENNETT
PHOTOS: AOIFE HERRIOTT
‘Hillock and Sea’ by Bernie Dignam
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FORUM Adolescent Support Project display at theVolvo Ocean Race in Galway on Friday 6th July2012; young people from the Connemara YouthRepresentative Group provided entertainment bydancing, playing music, stilt walking and facepainting children attending the event.
2012 Volvo Ocean Race
Ballinakill Active Age Club Celebrates 20 years in existence
Ballinakill Active Age Clubcommemorated their twenty years inexistence July 8th. The celebrationsincluded Mass in Tullycross Churchfor past and present members, alunch for club members in Ellis Halland afterwards members of the localcommunity joined in the celebrationat a Tea Dance with music by MattCunningham. The club was set up in1992 to provide social contact andservices for older people and hasbeen going strong ever since.
Special guests at the function wereTom Welby Lord Mayor of CountyGalway, Reverend Father GerryByrns P.P., Garda Ronan Steede,Kathleen Mortimer, Mary Coyne andBarbara Aspell.
In her speech Chairperson EileenKeane spoke about the differencebeing a member of the club hadmade to her life. She said “most ofthe women of her vintage spent theirlives rearing large families in toughtimes, she never knew what it waslike to have a social life outside the
home until she startedgoing to the club”. One ofthe main highlights everyyear is the annual RespiteBreak, where membersget a chance to have ashort holiday with otherolder people from the areain lovely hotels aroundIreland, this type of outingwas unheardof in her lifebefore shejoined theclub. Eileenencouragedothers to jointhe group as“it is anessentialelement ofolderpeopleslives”.
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St Paul’s Secondary School,OughterardTransition Year Sports ProgrammeIn 2011, FORUM funded a Healthy lifestyles sportsprogramme, through LCDP, in St Paul’s secondaryschool, Oughterard.
The programme was designed to encourage youngpeople to become involved in a range of sportingactivities and to increase awareness of theimportance of a balanced lifestyle.
The programme involved a wide range of activitiesfrom golf to zumba and yoga to self defence. Suchwas the success of the programme that FORUM willfund a similar sports programme in St Paul’s in2012. The following evaluation of 2011 activities willbe taken into account in the delivery of the 2012programme:
“The results of this pilot scheme are veryencouraging, all our students literally bought into thescheme very readily (€10 each), when they were informedwhat it was about and what was involved in doing it. Therewas a very high level of participation and enjoyment byboth male and females. The students were required to givea feedback on their course in a written and oral form whichwas very positive and they suggested that the courseshould be included in future years and that the range ofactivities be broadened, all of which has been taken onboard.
The two main aims of the course – raising awareness of
obesity issues and increasing teenage participation insport- were achieved as was demonstrated in the studentsfeedback. Students where are aware of the issue ofobesity in their age profile and of, what can be done aboutit. The level of female participation was very high for thisgroup.
This has been a very worthwhile course to include intransition year; it has been very beneficial to the students,it was good fun and the aims where achieved. 58 studentsparticipated.
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Irish Rural LinkConferenceConnemara West Plc.,hosted the Irish Rural Linkannual conference “RuralCommunities: “Fighting fora sustainable Future”, onMay 11th 2012 inLetterfrack. Theconference offereddelegates an insight into theactivities of ConnemaraWest Plc. and also visitedFORUM Connemara Ltd.,the Furniture College,Connemara CommunityRadio, ConservationLetterfrack and the TeachCeoil. In 1991 Irish RuralLink was launched inLetterfrack. Then, as now,rural Ireland was dealingwith the effects ofrecession. Issues such asemigration, decliningservices, isolation andothers challenged us.Theconference explored howRural Communities inpartnership with the publicand private sectors canchart a path to a sustainablefuture. The conference waslaunched by PresidentMichael D. Higgins.
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Rural Social Scheme The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) provides income support tofarmers and fishermen, who are currently in receipt of long - termSocial Welfare Payments and provides services that benefits thelocal communities.
In order to qualify for the RSS, you must be in receipt of socialwelfare payments such as Farm Assist, Jobseekers Allowance orDisability Benefit.
The Spouse of a Qualifying person can apply.The son or daughter who resident on the farm and is in receipt ofa qualifying Social Welfare payment can apply.
A PRSI contribution will qualify participants for Social welfarepayments e.g. pension.19.5 hours are worked per week, but the farmer friendly focus ofthe scheme allows for flexibility to do farm work.
Employment is provided in the local area where other employment opportunities may not exist.At present there are 14 participants on the Rural Social Scheme, based in the Killannin, Oughterard, Recess, Tullycross,Clifden, Leenane and Ballyconneely areas.Work undertaken includes social care, working with sporting and community groups, environmental work and smallorganic school gardens.
In Leenane village workers have rebuilt 2 stone walls, painted the community centre, and help with litter control. Theyare currently rebuilding a third wall and making provisions to clear a picnic area.
In Clifden five workers have under taking work in “Criost Linn” the Ability West Centre, where they have power washedthe building, painted the exterior walls, weeded the flower beds and cleaned the gutters. Worker’s will continue tomaintain the building into the future.
Workers have also carried out maintenance work on the Clifden church grounds and the priests house in the last fewmonths, cutting back trees, bushes, strimming and cutting grass.
Workers have also undertaken work for the elderly at the request of the HSE West.Maintenance work is continuing to be carried out on the sports fields in Clifden, Killannin and Oughterard, the Sensory
Garden in Recess and organic gardens in Tullycross, Clifden and the Clann Resource Centre in Oughterard.
Members of the board of Irish Rural Link with President Higgins.Seamus Boland CEO IrishRural Link
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Tús Community Work Placement InitiativeThe Tús initiative is a community work placementscheme providing short-term workingopportunities for unemployed people.
The work opportunities are to benefit thecommunity and are to be provided by communityand voluntary organisations in both urban andrural areas. The Tús initiative in non GaeltachtConnemara is managed by FORUM ConnemaraLtd. Community and voluntary groups have beeninvited by FORUM to participate in the scheme.
The 20 participants employed carry outenvironmental, infrastructural and social carework which includes preparation of food for Mealson Wheels, Lunch Clubs activities with the elderlyand also a community laundry service.
Six participants are shared between the KillaninCommunity Pitches, Oughterard RFC, Oughterard FC, Oughterard GAA,Clann Resource Centre, Oughterard Tourism and Development. Ballinafad, Recess, Bun Na gCnoc Community Council, Senior Citizensand Little Jim’s Playgroup share three workers. A further two workersare involved with the essential maintenance of the buildings andgrounds work and one participant visits the elderly and performsnecessary chores.
There are four participants shared between the Roundstone Community Council, Cluid Housing Clifden and Clifden Hospital, two ofthese participants are involved in the reclamation of an old walkway onInishnee.
A further seven workers are shared between Connemara West Plc,Letterfrack NS and Rainbows End Playschool in Tully Ballinakill ActiveAge Club, Cleggan/Claddaghduff Senior Citizens and ConnemaraCommunity Radio.
BEFORE
AFTERBEFORE
AFTER
Reclamation of old road, Inishnee, Roundstone Perimeter Wall at Letterfrack National School
Cleggan/Claddaghduff Senior Citizens
Age Friendly County InitiativeThe Galway Age Friendly Programme was
launched at a public meeting in Galway inSeptember 2011. The chair of the programmecommitted to carrying out a county wideconsultation process to ensure that the AgeFriendly strategy for Galway is informed bythe views and priorities of older people andtheir own organisation.
FORUM is a collaborative partner in theGalway Age Friendly Alliance which aims toachieve the following:
• Through seeking input and views whichwill help to inform the Age Friendly strategy forGalway that will aim to:
• Achieve much valued improvements inquality of life, quality of service and quality ofenvironment for older people living in Galway.
• Ensure that the priorities and ambitionsof all key stakeholder groups, particularly olderpeople and their organisations are reflectedstrongly in the Age Friendly strategy for Galway.
• Build support and interest among older people and otherstakeholders in the programme.
• Give older people and their organisations a strong sense thattheir views will influence the final strategy.
• Identify mechanisms by which the older adults in Galway canbecome genuine partners in the ongoing design and delivery of servicesin Galway.
Older peoples groups were invited to attend a variety of publicconsultation/active listening workshops looking for views across eight keyareas.
1. Housing and Home2. Transport3. Social Participation4. Respect and Social Inclusion5. Civic Participation and Employment6. Physical Environment and Outdoor Spaces7. Community Support and Health Services8. Communication and InformationFORUM facilitated the active listening workshops which took place in Clifden. One was an Intergenerational event
with the Comhairle na nOg group and Cleggan Senior Citizens group. The second consultation took place in Mayinvolving participants of an Active Citizenship Course.
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The Carers group continue tomeet every Wednesday nightfrom 8 – 10 pm in the Elm TreeCentre in Clifden.
Since Christmas the Grouphave had flower arrangingclasses and they are currentlyhaving knitting classes.
In May, the Carers grouptravelled to Westport for theirrespite break and enjoyed twonight luxury weekend in theWestport Plaza Hotel and visitedthe town’s landmarks andCastlebar during their stay. Thegroup also had spa treatmentwhile on respite. Fourteencarer’s took part in thisweekend.
The Carers group are planningtheir annual Summer Dinner inOff the Square, Clifden in July.
Clifden Carers Group
For more information contact Rosaleen at [email protected] or 087 737 5599
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County Galway is fortunate to be one of the 12 areas in the country to have been allocated the services ofa Rural Recreation Officer to support the expansion of outdoor recreational opportunities in the County forresidents and tourists alike.
FORUM Connemara's Rosaleen Ní Shúilleabháin is responsible for the introduction of many newrecreation initiatives in the county. Her role with FORUM commenced on the 1st May, 2012.
Her duties are: - To implement the Walks Scheme in County Galway.- To coordinate and oversee the management and enhancement of trails in the county.- To assist local communities developing new routes.- To assist in the marketing and promotion of other trails in the region.- Promote and encourage the development, delivery and improvement of recreational projects,
infrastructure and activities including land, water and air based activities.- Co-operate with State agencies, Local/Regional authorities and community groups to develop,
deliver and improve a range of outdoor recreational activities.
The Walks Scheme is administered by FORUMConnemara Ltd. with the assistance of the National TrailsOffice at the Irish Sports Council and Fáilte Ireland and inassociation with local walking management committeesand Local Authorities on behalf of the Department ofEnvironment, Community and Local Government.
It is a national scheme and open to all landholders onNational Waymarked Ways, Looped Walking Routes andHeritage Routes along with other trails that have beenapproved by the National Trails Office. The scheme willonly operate where there is agreement on the entire walkand will not be available for part of a walk.
The Walks Scheme is aimed at private landowners whowill be paid to carry out a specified and agreedmaintenance plan for approved walking routes throughtheir lands (5-year contracts).
Rural Recreation and Walks Scheme
The Walks Scheme
Employment Mediation ServiceThe Employment Mediation Service is available from the FORUM Connemara Ltd., offices inLetterfrack and one day a week in the Further Education centre, Oughterard. Anyone whohas queries about employment opportunities, Back to Work Enterprise Allowance or farmingissues can contact Brendan O’Malley at FORUM Connemara Ltd., Letterfrack office 09541116 or 087 9633366 or email [email protected]
Back to Work Enterprise AllowanceForum Connemara Ltd in conjunction with the Department of Social Protection run the Backto Work Enterprise Allowance . The scheme allows participants who are on a socialprotection payment to keep their payment for 2 years and also work at their own enterprise.Work plans are completed and participants must register with Revenue. All BTWEA
participants are encouraged to do a Business Enterprise Course.
Business Enterprise TrainingTo help those who have a business idea or havealready set up in business, FORUM in conjunctionwith the Galway County and City Enterprise Boarddelivered Business Enterprise Training overMay/June in Letterfrack with 18 participants.
The programme consisted of talks, lectures,discussions and exercises to encourageparticipants to discuss their business ideas, planstart-ups and deal with fears and problems theymay have.
The course was designed to stimulateentrepreneurial activities and back to workplanning for those recently unemployed. BusinessMentoring is also available to the participantsfollowing the completion of the course.
Under and unemployed
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Connemara Beekeepers AssociationFORUM have been working with Connemara beekeepersAssociation in a mentoring capacity for some time. TheBeekeepers Association now have 60 members from thelocal area and FORUM have assisted the group’sdevelopment by providing funding for courses run by the
association and by offering a venue for the group meetingsand training courses. In February the ConnemaraBeekeepers ran a very successful course in Letterfrack toencourage beginners and further educate those with moreexperience of keeping bees.
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Fas TrainingA reduced budget is now available from the Department of Social Protection to carry out essentialtraining which includes Safe Pass and Safety in the Workplace.
Essential Housing RepairsThe scheme carried out painting, general repairs and maintenance on local Health Centres with thematerials funded by the HSE and also carried out work on local Community Halls and community buildings.
A new pilot scheme, has undertaken a programme of work to improve the living conditions of the elderlyand people with disability in the community. In this scheme householders pay for the materials and the CEScheme workers carry out the work. A variety of work has been completed on six houses to date.
For information on the work that can be carried out and who can qualify please contact Martin Davis atFORUM on 095 41064 or 0879635144 or [email protected].
Ramp at older persons homeBallinakill Active Age Club garden and seating area
Painting at Recess Health Clinic Participant Training
FORUM Page
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FORUM Management
Terry Keenan, ChairpersonChris Curtin, EvaluatorDan Quaid, Health Services ExecutiveKevin Heanue, TeagascBarry Kennedy, Dept. of Social ProtectionJim Cullen, Galway County CouncilEithne Nic Dhonnchadha, VECAnne Donald Joyce, Community RepresentativeJenny Conboy, Community RepresentativeMary Kirby, Community RepresentativeMartin Conneely, Community RepresentativeCllr. Thomas Welby, Galway County CouncilCllr. Seamus Walsh, Galway County CouncilCllr. Seosamh O’Laoi, Galway County CouncilCllr. Eileen Mannion, Galway County CouncilEmmet McGloin, IFANoreen Parker, SIPTUHugh Musgrave, IFADanny Carr, Dept. of Social ProtectionChristine Mulkerrins, Community RepresentativeMary Gannon, Community RepresentativeBreda Fox, County Enterprise BoardLeo Hallissey, Environmental RepresentativeCarmel Geoghegan, Youth
FORUM Staff - Full Time
John Coyne, CEOYvonne Keane, Assistant CEO
Kathleen Kane, Team Leader/AdministrationCathy Keane, Team Leader/Community Groups
Anna Marie Mortimer, SecretaryKathleen deCourcey, CE Supervisor
Youth in ActionMartina Gavin, CE Supervisor Social Care
Martin Davis, CE Supervisor Warmer Homes Scheme
Marie Feeney, Adolescent Support CoordinatorBrendan O’Malley,
Employment Mediation ServiceGeraldine Kelly,
Rural Social Scheme SupervisorBrian Conneely, Tús Supervisor
Service, Gaeltacht ConnemaraGearóid deFaoite, Community Development
Worker, Gaeltacht Connemara
Part TimeBrid Staunton, Accounts
Tina Jack, Youth Support WorkerSandra Shattock, Administration
The FORUM Project has been funded under the EU Leader Programme and by the Irish Governmentunder the National Development Plan 2007 - 2013 and a number of State Agencies.
FORUM continues to disseminate information through the medium of two newsletters a year andthrough a weekly broadcast on Connemara Community Radio, which highlights the activities of the
FORUM Project.FORUM Website: http://www.forumconnemara.ie
