FORUM Newsletter Winter 2015_FORUM Newsletter Summer 2011 final 03/12/2015 15:11 Page 1
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NEWSLETTER WINTER 2015 ISSUE NO. 43
THANK YOU CONNEMARA FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT
The Board and Staff of FORUM Connemara Ltd would like to thank the people of Connemara for their overwhelming support over the years but in particular over the past twelve months. A public meeting held in March in Maam Cross gave FORUM a resounding message - to continue to serve the needs of the Connemara people through a range of social and economic programmes. The SICAP case is still in the courts with the next date set for February 8th 2016. FORUM Connemara is very grateful to those who contributed to the LEADER development plan for the area which will be submitted to the Dept for consideration in mid January.
P ARENTING T EENA GERS I NFORMATION E VENING P ARENTING : T HE C HALLENGES & THE R EWAR DS An information evening was held recently in Clifden for young people and their families. John Lonergan, former governor of Mountjoy Prison, delivered his highly popular talk on parenting teenagers. With plenty of humour, he shared accounts of parent’s foibles and fears on the demanding, challenging, complicated and never ending job of parenting. Service providers were on hand to answer any queries from young adults or parents (cont. page 8).
John Lonergan was presented with a framed poster by Clifden Luke Kelly and Grace Cafferkey. This poster was designed by FORUM’s Comhairle/Youth representitive group on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
MOONMAGIC It was a proud moment when our group of twelve performers, led by Sally-Ann Healy, marched out on stage at the Station House Theatre to present a programme of song, mime and poetry to mark the beginning of the recent Clifden Arts Week festival. Moon Magic is a group of people with intellectual disabilities ranging in age from mid-twenties to over fifty who are coached by well-known local drama teacher, Ros Coyne, who devised an entertaining programme drawing on the universal themes of the rhythm of life, the passing of the seasons and friendship.
This is the second year running that Moon Magic has put on a show during Arts Week and this year we were delighted to be joined by dancer and choreographer, Magda Hylak, in putting our programme together. The aim of this project is to raise awareness of, and change attitudes towards, people with disabilities in a positive, socially inclusive and lifeenhancing manner. The show provides an excellent opportunity for people with disabilities to join in the fun of Arts Week by demonstrating their creative talents and ability to entertain an audience. Several poems written by the group themselves were recited beautifully during the show by Patrick Wallace. There was not a dry eye in the house as the audience was regaled with a series of fun, lively and moving songs and mimes performed by the entire group assisted by carers and volunteers.
This initiative was set in motion by Paving the Way and Lamh Linn, two local groups which support people with disabilities and their families, in coordination with Criost Linn, a day service for people with disabilities. The project was financially supported by GRETB and FORUM and a number of friends and supporters in the community helped with the work in putting on the show. It is hoped to expand and continue this exciting programme into an on-going year-round project. For more information, call Jean Mullan on 086 6020834 - By Jean Mullan
Clifden CIC How does Budget 2016 affect you? Here are some of the main Budget changes, all of which will take effect from January 2016, unless otherwise stated: o Child Benefit increased by €5 to €140 per child per month o Pensioners & Carers aged 66 & over to receive an extra €3 weekly o A Christmas Bonus of 75% will be paid in December 2015 to people getting a long-term social welfare payment o Carer’s Support Grant (formally Respite Care Grant) to be increased to €1,700 per year per person being cared for o Carer’s Allowance to be paid for 12 weeks after the death of the person being cared for o Fuel Allowance to increase to €22.50 per week o All Family Income Supplement income thresholds to be increased o Universal Social Charge exemption limit to increase to €13,000 o Universal Social Charge rates to be reduced o Paternity Benefit of €230 per week to be paid for two weeks (starting September 2016) Further information available from Clifden CIC, which provides a free & confidential service. Tel: 0761 07 7580 / 087 1301100/Email: clifden@citinfo.ie OPEN: Thursday 7pm – 8pm & Friday 10.30am – 3.30pm Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000 2
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The Local & Community Development Programme (LCDP) in the Connemara Gaeltacht
The Local & Community Development Programme (LCDP) is managed by POBAL on behalf of the Department of Community, Environment and Local Government. It forms part of the National Development Plan 2007 – 2013.
FORUM administers LCDP in non Gaeltacht Connemara and was asked by POBAL to manage LCDP in Gaeltacht Connemara in June
2012. The groups targeted by FORUM, under LCDP are older people, young people and their families, community groups, people with disability, under and unemployed and lone parents. Two workers are employed by FORUM to administer LCDP in Gaeltacht Connemara from July 2012 to date and a range of actions have been carried out with groups and individuals in the Connemara Gaeltacht.
A news sheet has been produced in Irish outlining these actions. For a copy please contact Gearoid DeFaoite – 087 6921211 or Mairead Uí Dhomhnaill – 087 7952747
ARC Clifden In October, with the support of Galway County Council, ARC Clifden re-started their efforts to provide universal access at the Town Hall, Clifden. The committee wish to thank the people of Clifden and surrounding districts for their patience during the design, planning and building process which has caused some distruption to the users of the hall. ARC are hopeful that the ramp will be in place by the end of the year and the hall can be utilised to its full potential by all members of the community. ARC is also enthusiastic at the prospect of introducing a new sport to the area - short mat indoor bowls. Short mat bowls is a scaled down version of the indoor bowling that is seen on television and is a non-contact sport requiring skill, concentration and good hand-eye co-ordination. It is a sport for all ages: people aged nine to 90 can play as there is a low risk of injury, and it has proven to be a popular game with the elderly and people with a disability. Health and wellbeing benefits through exercise, including bowling, can assist in lowering the risk of stroke, heart attacks and diabetes; assists in increasing bone density; improving circulation and lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure. A portable lightweight bowling carpet, full sized bowls and other necessary equipment has been purchased by ARC, with assistance from FORUM LCDP. The committee will be seeking assistance from the community for volunteers to train as coaches in this activity so it can get underway. Please contact the administrator for the Hall: Valerie Mahon Pither, Office no: 095- 30780 The Knitting & Stitching Show
The Knitting & Stitching Show is more than a regular craft show selling essential sewing and knitting supplies and craft materials. It is a craft workers dream! So in November members of two women’s groups in Connemara, the Wednesday Ladies Group from Clifden and the Tully Cross ICA decided to experience the event first hand and travel to the RDS, Dublin. The show included galleries showcasing the work of some of Ireland and the UK’s best know textile artists as well as providing opportunities for members to participate in practical craft workshops, demonstrations and master classes. Browsing through the nearly 200 exhibitors was a unique shopping experience for those who enjoy craftwork. All who attended came home with materials and ideas for new and exciting home projects. 3
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Connemara Therapeutic Riding - a winning combination
The Connemara Therapeutic Riding group is delighted to report that Therapeutic Riding (TR) sessions have been happening in Errislannan Manor since the beginning of July. The trilogy of our highly qualified coaches, Mrs Brook’s very well behaved Connemara Ponies and the wonderful Errislannan Manor as the backdrop makes for the perfect Therapeutic Riding session. People with disability, their families and the committee have seen the huge benefits of Therapeutic Riding over the last few months. It has benefited both children and adults with a range of conditions including Autism, Epilepsy, Down’s syndrome, acquired brain injury, learning disabilities, sensory impairments and Cerebral Palsy. We have seen first-hand that TR has helped the rider immensely by improving balance and co-ordination, greatly assisted with emotional control, selfconfidence and self-esteem. The sessions will continue on Saturdays and Tuesdays, weather permitting of course. If you know of anyone who would like to try TR please contact Jacqueline on 087-1171716 as booking is essential. We cannot accommodate a session without adequate notice. This resource has costs of course despite being subsidised by voluntary labour and funding from FORUM Connemara under the LCDP programme. Why not consider donating to Connemara Therapeutic Riding as a Christmas gift for a loved one? If you wish to do so please contact Karen Mannion at 087-9635272 for further information. Due to the demand for sessions, the Connemara Therapeutic Riding group wish to establish a panel of Leaders and Side-walkers. Leaders are those who lead the pony during the TR session and must be experienced and have knowledge of equines. Side walkers are those who walk alongside the rider to provide security and assist the coach in maintaining the correct rider position. The committee will be delivering training for potential Leaders and Side-walkers in the New Year – if you would like to be on this panel please contact connemaratr@gmail.com. FORUM is delighted to annouce that its application to the Dormant Accounts Fund for a part-time worker has been successful. The funding will be in place for eighteen months and will see the worker promote and market the service, increase participation and look at developing TR as a niche tourism product.
Erin Mitchell with her mum Leigh Birchmore after collecting the organic carrots grown by the young gardeners in Tigh Na Og Crèche Letterfrack.
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‘The Field’ 25th anniversary celebrations a huge success. The celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the film “The Field”, hosted in Leenane village on the 25th -26th September, were a great success. Everyone both the local community and visitors alike, really enjoyed themselves. It was a pleasure to have so many guests attend the event, many of them having traveled long distances to take part. The festival celebrated something that is now fundamental to Leenane village. It is one of the reasons Leenane is such a popular tourist destination.
Members of the cast that took part in the Outdoor Theatre performance at the Field Festival on 26th September. From Left to right: Liam Gavin, Declan Mahon, Vinny Keane, Rebecca Joyce, Conor Bolger, Director Jim Sheridan, Colm Conneely, Seany Mc Donnell, Ide Tynan and Seamus Nee. Missing from the photo Aoife
We were honored to have Minister of State at the Department of Transport Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring TD, and Eamon O’Cuiv T.D. present. Acclaimed film director and director of ‘The Field’ Jim Sheridan, accompanied by his wife Fran, officially opened the festival. A photo exhibition and a visitor information brochure was launched on the opening night. Fr Michel Mac Grael SJ conducted a very powerful reflection on the ethical and religious issues raised in the film in Asleagh Church which included the enchanting singing of Mary Ann Coyne. Two showings of ‘The Field’ were presented at the Sheep and Wool Centre which also includes tours of the museum and back-to-back demonstrations. The ‘Taste of Connemara’ walk proved very popular, which offered spectacular scenery and a chance to sample the delights of Killary Fjord Shellfish and pay a visit to Killary Sheep Farm. The duck race raised valuable funds for the Leenane Crèche (The Sea Garden). The outdoor theatre event drew huge crowds and the local actors taking part left nothing to be desired. The festival was rounded off by a well-attended Céilí. The festival would not have happened without the amazing support and generosity of our many sponsors. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped in any way to make the 25th anniversary of the Film “The Field” such a sensational experience. By Leenane Development Association
Elm Tree Mental Health Support Centre, Clifden Exercise has been proven to be a hugely positive factor in the recovery process of most mental health illnesses and especially depression. With this in mind we approached FORUM seeking support for the delivery of an exercise programme at the centre. In September, the physical health and wellbeing programme commenced with 16 clients of the service. To our delight there has been great enthusiasm and interest. Clients are divided into two groups, Passive and Active and suitable exercises programmes based around the needs and abilities of participants are delivered. Encouraging ‘having fun’ through exercise is an important element to the success of this programme and is due in the main to the design and efforts of Mary Lacey (tutor) and the support staff working in the Elm Tree. The benefits can clearly be seen within the service with the clients involved being much more motivated and energetic and we would hope to continue to offer this programme on a continuous basis in light of the positive effects observed. Once again many thanks to FORUM for making this programme available to us here in Elm Tree. Michael Dolan Nurse/Manager
Gardening Group Clann Family Resource Centre Oughterard In June, Clann welcomed their new coordinator Belinda who is currently working with the voluntary committee to progress and sustain activities identified in the centre’s strategic plan. There are many activities underway and she would encourage those living in the area to pop in, all are most welcome. One group based at the centre are the Gardening Group. They are supported by Kay Synott of ‘Living Gardens’ and with her help they have developed much of the garden at the back of the centre. As their skills and knowledge have developed their confidence has grown and they are now turning their attention to progressing a more adventurous plan, a Sensory Garden at the front, once the new gardening season commences in Spring. This initiative is partially funded through FORUM ‘s Local Community Development Programme. 5
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Adolescent Support Programme Transition Year Healthy Lifestyle Programme As the first group of TYs come to the end of their Healthy Lifestyle Programme, made possible by the support of FORUM Connemara, we would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the different activities we have undertaken as part of the programme so far. An aspect of the course that we found particularly interesting were the coaching courses we took part in. The GAA coaching offered us a chance to experience what it is like to coach rather than to be coached. The life skills coaching course then offered us a different perspective, as we learned that there are many different styles of coaching, as well as learning how to teach the fundamentals of all sports, something that we can use for many years into our futures. We also used these opportunities to develop our skills in sports for example rounders, table tennis and badminton sports that can be played anywhere in the world. We also made use of our local boxing club for a day, where we were trained by All-Ireland champion Kieran Molloy, a student in our school, and his coach James Kelly.
St. Paul's Secondary School, Oughterard
On a less intense level, a lot of us who had not tried Zumba before were pleasantly surprised when an instructor came from Claregalway to show us what it’s all about. It was extremely light-hearted, energetic and most importantly fun.
It was very different from anything else on the course. As enjoyable as Zumba was, the favourite activity of all was the horse-riding. As you can imagine, horse-riding requires a completely different set of skills than anything we had done previously, so it was exciting and a very unique experience for all of us. Archery was another very unique experience for us, and something we are unlikely to ever have tried outside of this course. The instructor was very helpful, and despite us being complete beginners, we managed to successfully hold a competition, adding another element of fun to an already enjoyable course. A very different side to the Healthy Lifestyle Programme was survival cookery. Here we learned how to make basic but necessary meals on a limited budget so we can live with a healthy diet when we leave home. We learned how to cook dishes such as pizza, spring rolls and chicken curry, all easy to make, inexpensive, nutritious and tasty! the Healthy Lifestyle Programme offered us a chance to develop our skills and experience activities Overall, outside our comfort zone, in a fun and educational atmosphere. We found this experience enjoyable, enlightening and very beneficial, and we are extremely grateful to FORUM Connemara for making it possible. By Sean Crump and Ellen Casey, T.Y. students St. Pauls Junior Arts Schools Programmes In addition to the After Schools Activity clubs, junior arts programmes have been delivered to 43 children during school time in the Letterfrack, Cleggan, Claddaghduff, Ballyconneely and Roundstone National Schools. The request for this type of initiative has come from teachers. 6
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See photographs centre pages National Schools After Schools Activity Programmes During 2015 the FORUM Adolescent Support project has delivered primary school After School Activity Clubs to Maam, Letterfrack, Cleggan, Leenane, Claddaghduff, Ballyconneely, Roundstone, two programmes to Scoil Mhuire Clifden and one programme under the LCDP Programme to Scoil Naomh Padraig, Clon Breac in Corr na Mona. The main emphasis of these programmes is to enhance the participants self esteem through positive group work. We offer alternative experiences and help develop new skills around outdoor education. Activities include group games which helps to increase concentration, observation, awareness, quick thinking, alertness, strategy, teamwork, trust, group cohesion, confidence, self-awareness, co-operation and the most important ingredient is fun. Projects and activities include stain glass painting, woodwork project, textile design, card making and orienteering. Each programme ended with an outing to the Killary Adventure Centre where the students enjoyed combat laser questing and the Killary Challenge. In total 101 young people took part in these programmes. Jigsaw Service and North West Connemara Youth Youth Reach Bio-Diversity Project Mental Network Students from Youth Reach took part in a Over the past year, FORUM has worked extensively collaborative project with FORUM’s Adolescent with young people in North West Connemara and Support Programme. They cut and shaped services providers (who provide supports to young pieces of wood for the construction of over 60 bird people and their families). While the service that houses which greatly assisted the young people on Jigsaw provided initially was very beneficial, a the After Schools Programmes to complete bespoke monthly service was not adequate in providing bird houses for their homes. In total over 60 young support to young people who were experiencing people were involved. The beautiful birdhouses will mental health issues. It was identified that a once a certainly attract more birds into their gardens in the week service was required for the young people of future. the area. As a consequence of fundraising during 2014 and early 2015, approximately ₏6,000 was raised to provide a one day a week service. FORUM worked with stakeholders in an extensive fundraising campaign. Since the weekly sessions have commenced, four to five young people attend weekly for eight weeks of an intervention. The sessions are held in different venues in Clifden and Carna. Games Night with the 31st Galway Bengoora Scouts A games night was organised by the Project Coordinator Marie Feeney for the Bengoora Letterfrack Scouts for both Beavers and Cubs in November. In total 40 children took part in games such as shipwreck, dress the solider and other fun teams games.
Youth Representative Group/Comhairle na nOg FORUM has been working with the local Comhairle na nOg group over the past year to further engage young people in the decision making process. The group welcomes new members. Currently the group comprises of ten young people and their first outing was to the County Comhairle AGM which was held on the 15th of October in Claregalway.
Post Primary School Programmes Personal development programmes were delivered to 69 students from the Clifden, Corr na Mona and Carna post primary schools. This programme was supported by the North and West School Completion programme and ended with a trip to the Killary Adventure Centre in May. 7
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Bubble Soccer Youth Event Clifden Youth Cafe A Children and Young People’s Services Committee (CYPSC) has Since January approximately 30 been set up to help structure and co-ordinate services for children young people have been attending and young people in this region. This committee is responsible for the Clifden Youth Cafe after school improving the lives of young people and families at local on Fridays; the project provides hot community level through co-ordinated planning and service drinks, toast and the use of games delivery with all professionals. As an outcome of discussions with such as Xbox, table football and the young people of this area, it was identified that they would like to use of two lap tops. The School have better relationships with the Clifden Gardai. As a result a Completion Officer is assisting with joint initiative was organised by the FORUM Adolescent Support the rent of the premises for the Project and the Clifden Gardai to host a fun bubble soccer event. initiative and the project has two The event was held on Friday 29th of May in Clifden West workers from the CE Scheme and Connemara Sports & Leisure Centre where over fifty young people TUS programmes, they are being and ten Gardai took part in a two-hour event. It was a great teamsupervised by the Project Cobuilding day and it is hoped to run another event in the coming ordinator who also attends on some months. Support was also provided by the School Completion of the weeks. programme. Parenting Teenagers Information Evening on 24th Youth Cafe opened during State Exams November 2015 (cont.from front cover). The As part of a new initiative by the FORUM conference had seventy parents in attendance and a Adolescent Support Project, during the number of teenagers. This initiative was organised month of June when students from by the FORUM Adolescent Support Project, North & Clifden Community School were West School Completion Programme, Strengthening completing their Junior and Leaving Cert Families, TUSLA, Galway County Council and Clifden exams, the Youth Cafe opened during the Community School. In attendance on the night were young people’s two hour lunch breaks. services that work with young people such as TUSLA The young people were provided with Family Support & Social Work Department, Western teas, coffees, soups and toast. The school Regional Drugs & Alcohol Task Force, Foroige, Chaplin was present on some of the days Jigsaw, Galway County Sports Partnership to help out the youth workers. Programme, North & West School Completion Approximately 15 to 20 young people Programme, Clifden Community School, Carna used this facility daily. Secondary School, Youth Work Ireland, SHOUT, Galway County Comhairle, Strengthening Families, CoderDojo Club Amach, Aid West, GRETB Adult and family Learning, CoderDojo is a club for young people aged VTOS and Back to Education initiative, Aids West, between 7 and 17 to learn how to code, develop Youth Reach, Psychology, Clifden Gardai and the websites, apps, programs, games and more. In FORUM Adolescent Support Project. addition to learning to code, members meet like minded people, show off what they’ve been 13+ Summer Camp Adventure Programme working on and so on. CoderDojo makes A two day event was held in the Killary Adventure development and learning to code a fun, sociable Centre for fifty seven young people during July. experience. CoderDojo also puts a strong Interest in this type of programme was expressed by emphasis on open source and free software, and the Youth Representative group as being one of the has a strong network of members and volunteers most suitable activities. The young people engaged globally. This project assisted in establishing and in different disciplines during the two days including running a CoderDojo club in Clifden in 2014 and in archery, rock climbing, combat laser questing, February this year another club opened in canoeing, raft building and the Killary Challenge. Renvyle. In total between the two clubs 109 young Support to this camp was also provided by the people and children are attending. This particular School Completion Programme and FORUM LCDP programme has been supported by the School Programme. Completion Programme. 8
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Youth in Action Summer Camps Youth in Action 7+ summer camps were held in July. Camps were held in the following areas Tullycross, Roundstone, Claddaghduff and Clifden. The main activities for all camps include arts, crafts and sports. All camps finished with a barbeque. Over 160 Children attended across the locality.
Primary Schools The Cumman na mBunsoils Chonamara Gaelic football finals were held on 25th June in See more photographs Oughterard. National schools from all over centre pages Connemara took part with over 400 students present. The West Coast United Inter Sport Cup Soccer local finals took place in Letterfrack on 28th May. All the local national schools took part with over 150 Students. The Inter-Sport Programme took place again this term; schools that took part were Ballyconneely, Aillebrack, Clifden, Cashel, Kingstown, Claddaghduff and Cleggan with over 100 children participating. Youth workers on the Social Care scheme supported the schools by providing training to the children who took part. Youth in Action provides support to the delivery of different programmes of the Adolescent Support Project which has been mentioned earlier in this newsletter, initiatives such as Fun Runs the After School The annual Fun Runs took place this year in Cleggan/Claddaghduff Programme, Junior and Letterfrack on 24th May and in Roundstone on 31st May, over 500 Activity Club, Clifden people took part. The day was rounded off with light refreshments, prize Youth Cafe and giving, an open air disco, face painting, sport events, fun and games for Coderdojo. all the family. The Project would once again like to thank all those who took part, the young people who collected sponsorship, the volunteers who helped on the day and the sponsors of the various events.
Calendar
The 18th edition of the Youth in Action calendar 2016 “Back in the Day� is available in the local shops. The project would like to thank the businesses for their generous support, and would also like to thank the people that provided us with photos every year, all proceeds from the sale of the calendar go towards activities for the youth in the area. 9
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LEADER The Rural Development Programme for Ireland 2007-2013 administered by FORUM Connemara saw nearly five million euro commited to the FORUM region. Below are just a small selection of businesses FORUM assisted through LEADER.
Award Winners
Congratulations to Cathy & Colin Wolfe of Connemara Wild Escapes – Connemara’s only indigenous tour operator. They won the Silver Award for ‘Best at Engaging Local People & Culture’ at the World Responsible Tourism Awards 2015 in London recently. They also achieved a National award for ‘Best Tour Operator’ in Ireland at the Irish Responsible Tourism in April 2015. The business proudly promotes conservation and responsible travel. Connemara Wild Escapes - TOURS, ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES IN THE WEST OF IRELAND www.connemarawildescapes.ie
Alison Conneely - A Faul Bag www.alisonconneely.com
Alison Conneely is a native of Clifden. In 2013 she won the coveted Future Makers award for her collection Bella’s Faul from the Craft Council of Ireland. Her work is a continuous exploration of her homeland in the West of Ireland and the notion of geology as mythology. Her clothing, elegant & modernist collections have appeared in Vogue, Dazed & Confused, Tatler, Harpers Bazaar & Sunday Times Style. In 2014 she launched a ‘Faul Bag' - a timeless, minimalist leather handbag handcrafted in Italy. A Faul bag comes in dove grey, midnight navy and black. Handcrafted in an artisan workshop in Florence and inspired by Connemara, a limited number of this stylish bag has been produced. It boasts the finest Italian leather, adjustable strap, innovative closure and impeccable handfinish. 10
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Connemara Carpets
Connemara Carpets in Moyard (formerly McMurray Carpets), has been producing quality handmade carpets since the 1970’s. Its long and prestigious international client list includes major brands, private commissions, palaces, heritage trusts, estates, 5 and 6 star hotels, large yachts, embassies and national governments. The business manufactures carpets in 100% pure wool and in wool/silk blends. The method used is called hand tufting which involves inserting wool strands with a tufting gun on to a canvas which is stretched tightly on a frame. The method requires great skill and accuracy and is very appropriate for complex designs. Over 80% of the carpets produced by Connemara Carpets are exported. The business now employs seven people and is an important enterprise in the FORUM region as less than 10% of the workforce are involved in the manufacturing sector. The role of FORUM Connemara in identifying and supporting such ventures both in grants and collaboration only underlines once again the importance of having a locally based entity with the ability to understand the resources, strengths and needs of Connemara. www.connemaracarpets.com
Above: Carpet at the offices of Kirby Engineering & Construction Company. Below: Newly renovated Galway County Council Chamber
Connemara Headstones and Grave Maintenance Connemara Headstones and Grave Maintenance is a business operated by Kieran Heanue from Letterfrack services are provided all over the Connemara region phone 087-1169131 11
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After Schools Programmes
ble Bub r e socc
Youth Cafe
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Sum m Cam er ps
jo
Coderdo
13+ Summer Camps
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Adolescent Support
Youth In Action
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Social Care Programme
Resource Groups All eleven resource groups continue to meet at coffee mornings and lunch clubs around North West Connemara. All groups were successful in securing funding from the HSE under Section 39 funding. The groups enjoy weekly activities at their clubs which can include keep fit, arts and crafts, music, cards and bingo. Ballinakill Active Age group attended a community party on 6th January in Letterfrack. To celebrate St Patrick’s day, members of Ballinakill Active Age Club had an outing to Clifden, Roundstone attended the local parade and Ballyconneely celebrated the day in Clifden. The Roundstone and Ballinakill groups took part in an outing to the Museum of Country Life and lunch at Horkans Garden Centre in Turlough, Castlebar in May. In June the annual trip to Knock was enjoyed by the Leenane group. In Spring the BRB Senior Citizens group, Recess held a twelve week art course with Cathal O'Malley in the community centre. Billy Gilmore provided an informative talk on the native black bee to the Leenane group. Ballinakill Active Age group raised €250 at their annual Alzheimer’s tea day on 4th April. Representatives from all resource groups attended the St Joseph’s Court ten year birthday bash in The Station House in Clifden on 28th May. Ninety five older people took part in the Arts Week event in the Station House in Clifden in September. Members of Ballinakill Active Age also had a fishing trip to Michael Faherty’s trout ponds in Oughterard, and took part in a trip to Westport in November. FORUM is delighted to annouce that its application to the Dormant Accounts Fund for support to carers has been successful.This application has a particluar focus on male and young carers.
Bealach na Gaillimhe Teo (The Rural Transport initiative) Ballinakill Active Age Club Mini Bus and one private operator continue to provide the Bealach transport service four days per week in NW Connemara. The service is provided for people with reduced mobility and passengers who have no suitable public transport service. The service covers Leenane, Letterfrack,Renvyle,Cashel,Recess and Ballyconneely areas. In 2015, the three Galway rural transport groups joined together to form one company, under the National Transport Authority. The head office is in Loughrea with a satellite office in Carna.
Ballinakill Community Catering/FORUM Meals on This service provides a nutritious meal to older people living independently in North West Connemara. The meals are prepared in Ellis Hall and delivered by the CE Workers to the client’s door. At present meals are delivered to Clifden, Cleggan, Claddaghduff, Moyard, Renvyle and Kylemore area. Ballyconneely, Roundstone and Recess meals are delivered through CE workers and local catering businesses and Leenane meals are delivered from Leenane Community Centre by a voluntary worker. The Social Care Scheme is involved with Irish Rural Link and other Meals on Wheels providers in the creation of a Meals on Wheels Network nationally. For further information contact 095 41064/087 9633970.
Disability Support Disability Support continues to be available through the Social Care Programme. The service is based in the Letterfrack office and offers information and form filling service to clients with disability. Information on Disability support by contacting 095 41064 or 087 9633970
Traditional Craft Club The FORUM Social Care Programme, in conjunction with Ballinakill Active Age Club, continues to host Open House Traditional Craft Event every Wednesday in Ellis Hall, Letterfrack. This club is open to anyone who would like to join. The craft club takes place in Ellis Hall from 2pm to 4pm every Wednesday. For more information contact Martina Gavin 087 9633970 Jean Wallace 086 3087619. 15
In conjunction with CEECC, FORUM and Ballinakill Active Age Club, elderly from the Ballinakill parish attended Rosleague Manor Hotel twice this year for lunch to celebrate Conamara Sea Week and Conamara Bog Week. On both occasions there was a wonderful concert with Don Stiffe and Marcus Hernon entertaining the group.
Laundry Service This service is currently in operation in two areas, Letterfrack and Leenane, four days per week. The social care workers run the service. The main users of the service are the elderly, carers, lone parents and students. Funds received from the service help to provide for the Meals on Wheels service.
Photos Courtesy: Aoife Herriott Photography
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Carer Companion Service The Carer Companion service continues to provide a service in non Gaeltacht Connemara, where Social Care workers visit the homes of older people and provide transport for shopping, doctors’ visits etc. This service targets, in particular, vulnerable individuals who are experiencing loneliness; it encourages independence and increases participation in community.
Security Clifden Day Hospital Personal alarms continue to be FORUM’s Social Care Programme continues to support the work available to eligible people over 65 in carried out by the Clifden Day Hospital in the provision of elderly north west Connemara area. day care services. The social care workers assist with the Applications can be can be made by transport service and activities at the centre. The role of the Day contacting Martina Gavin on 087 Hospital is to facilitate and prolong independent living. It is 9633970. attached to Clifden Hospital and run by the Health Service Executive. The Carers groups meet monthly for a social outlet and to gain Clifden, Oughterard and Moycullen Carers Group information and support. The Members of Clifden, Oughterard outing to Trad on the Prom and Moycullen groups took part in Healing Therapy days in Galway, this was supported by the HSE and FORUM. Twenty nine carers from Clifden, Oughterard and Moycullen groups attended dinner and the show “Trad on the Prom” in the Galway Bay Hotel in July this year. In September, 18 carers started a Palliative Care Course QQI level 6 in Recess. This course will continue for nine weeks and is supported by HSE, FORUM and the Carers Association. Twenty carers took part in a respite break to the Plaza Hotel in Westport in November. The carers support groups are open to all carers, if you need further information contact Geraldine Kelly 087 9633253. 16
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Tús Community Work Placement Initiative The Wild Atlantic Way Project
The Wild Atlantic Way is set to be Ireland's first long-distance touring route, stretching along the Atlantic coast from Donegal to West Cork. Derryinver viewing point
Killary Fjord viewing point The overall aim of the project is to develop a long-distance touring route that will achieve greater visibility for the West Coast of Ireland in overseas tourist markets. The Wild Atlantic Way is one of Fáilte Ireland's signature projects to rejuvenate Irish tourism.
Renvyle castle viewing point
Projects commenced locally in 2014. RSS and Tús workers, in conjunction with Fáilite Ireland and Galway County Council, worked on the White Strand Car Park, the Castle in Renvyle, Killary Fjord and Derryinver viewing points. Work continues by RSS and Tus workers East and West of Maam Cross in Sports Facilities, Tidy Towns, Charity Shops, Friends of Clifden Hospital, Friends of St. Anne’s Nursing Home, Beach Scheme, Community Centres, graveyards, Churches, community groups, Youth Café in Oughterard and the Oughterard Anglers. Work at St. Anne’s Nursing Home, Clifden
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Painting done by RSS Workers in the West Connemara Sports & Leisure Centre, Clifden.
Work undertaken at Ballinakill Church by TĂşs worker.
Clean up and power washing at St. Annins School Killannin
Pitch maintenance at Oughterard Rugby Club
Painting at Clann Family Resource
Rubbish collection at Corribdale Grounds 18
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Rural Recreation and Walks Scheme
Western Way Relaunch Despite a damp, windy evening in Connemara, there was a great turn out for the relaunch of the Western Way hiking trail in Leenane on 1st of May. Michael Gibbons, one of Ireland’s leading field archaeologists, officially launched the new map boards and branding, describing it as the original Wild Atlantic Way as the trail brings walkers through some of the most rural, historic and scenic parts of Mayo and Galway. There are 13 new map boards in place along the trail, some of which are visible from the road in Oughterard, Maam and in Leenane. This will help bring the trail back to life and easier for walkers to experience. The Western Way begins in Oughterard and finishes in Bonniconlon, Co. Mayo, some 200km away.
FORUM Connemara Ltd, alongside South West Mayo Development Company, are continuing to work together through the Rural Recreation Programme to bring the Western Way up to a standard of excellence The local landowners play a key part in the success of the trail and the Walk Scheme on the Western Way is currently being renewed for a further five years. More details on the Western Way trail can be found at www.irishtrails.ie
Other News:
The Letterfrack Poetry Trail is up and running and has received very positive feedback.
Slí Chonamara: This long distance walking trail is currently being reviewed and has been audited. A meeting took place with relevant agencies to study the audit and develop a sustainable plan for the trail.
A Mountain Access Project is being piloted in two areas, Binn Shléibhe, Clonbur, Co. Galway and Carrauntoohil, Co. Kerry. Binn Shléibhe in Clonbur has a farm liaison officer who is a local farmer himself and he has been in discussions with the local landowners involved in the scheme. CDS through their RSS scheme and Coillte have been developing car parks at the various access points. There is further work to be carried out, but it is expected to be ready to launch in Spring
The Rural Recreation Officer is continuing to assist Galway Council Council on the Connemara Greenway and with communities in East Galway and is involved in securing funding and organising events for beach clean-ups. 19
Finisglin
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Maírois Looped Walk: This walk starts at Maírois cemetery. The remains of New trails: the church in the cemetery are believed to date back to the 6th century. The walk heads South along Trá Mhaírois and continues along the rocky shoreline to an Trá Móir and further along the shoreline where the trail moves inland. The small bóithrín will bring you up to the main road. From this point you can a) turn right up to Mace Head past the Atmospheric Research Station. There is an old wartime 'lookout' shelter on the headland and you can see across to St. Macdara's island with its iconic oratory b) turn left back to Maírois cemetery. This road runs through Dubhithir and down to the pier at Maírois beach, affording beautiful views across the Twelve Bens, Errisbeg and many islands. Club Spaisteoireacht Iorras Aithneach and Forbairt Conamara Láir, in conjunction with the Rural Recreation Officer, have developed this lovely 4km loop trail. The club held their first Walking Festival in September and used the trail as one of their organised walks. It is hoped to launch the trail officially in the Spring when it passes its final inspection. Garumna Looped Walk-Slí Chonamara: Gorumna Island is located in Ceantar na nOileán – the Island Region of South Connemara – and it is connected to Leitir Móir and the mainland via Carraig a’Logáin Bridge. Ceantar na nOileán is a region of outstanding natural beauty, and a gem of the Irish countryside. This section of Slí Chonamara has been developed into a 9 km looped trail. It passed the National Trails Office inspection and only has a few things to complete. Once the map board and directional arrows are in place, there will be an official launch of this trail. Contact: The Rural Recreation Officer would be delighted to hear from community groups, businesses and individuals in relation to projects in their area. If you have an idea or plans to develop a recreation project, please feel free to contact Rosaleen for advice and information. Projects need to have full support of the community to ensure success. Many thanks to all the landowners, communities and walking groups for their support with various ongoing projects. Rosaleen Ní Shúilleabháin, Rural Recreation Officer, FORUM Connemara, Old Boys School, Clifden. Co. Galway. Email: r.nishuilleabhain@forumconnemara.ie Tel: 087 737-5599
Under and unemployed
Employment Mediation Service The Employment Mediation service is available from the FORUM Connemara Ltd offices in Letterfrack and one day a week (Thursday) in the Further Education Centre, Oughterard. Anyone who has queries about employment opportunities, Back to Work Enterprise Allowance or farming issues can contact Brendan O’Malley at the FORUM Connemara Ltd., Letterfrack office 095 41116 or 087 9633366 or email b.omalley@forumconnemara.ie Business Enterprise Training To help those who have a business idea or have already set up in business FORUM, working with the Local Enterprise Office, organise Business Enterprise training. Recently FORUM ran a Business Enterprise course in Oughterard. The Business training programme consists of talks, lectures, discussions and exercises to encourage participants to discuss their business ideas, plan startups and deal with fears and problems they may have. The course is designed to stimulate entrepreneurial activity and plan a participants’ path back to work. 20
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Spraying Course As part of new legislation from the Department of Agriculture, farmers must participate in a two day FETAC Level 5 Spraying Course and obtain certification. A spraying course was run locally and was carried out by the Farm Relief Service.
Safe Pass In 2015 FORUM organised four Safe Pass courses catering for 80 people. The Safe Pass is a must for those who are working in the construction trade, whether this is parttime or full-time.
Mayo/Connemara Blackface Mountain Sheep FORUM has worked with Teagasc to progress the work of the Mayo/Connemara Blackface Mountain Sheep group over the past two years. The group have genotyped rams and have a database of herdowners who are interested in progressing the breed.
Moving to Self- Employment Day FORUM, working with the Galway Roscommon Educational Training Board (GRETB), organised a ‘Moving to SelfEmployment’ Day in Clifden. The Day involved talks and information from Social Protection, GRETB and FORUM on what supports are on offer to people who want to go into selfemployment. There were talks from people who had gone into self-employment. Over 40 people attended and a group of twelve went on a ‘start your own business course’ to look at drawing up a business plan and starting their own business.
Enterprise Day in Oughterard
In March FORUM attended an enterprise day in Oughterard. The event was held over a two day period and showcased all the Enterprise and Business activities in the Oughterard area. 21
Agriculture Certificate Fetac Level 5 & 6 (Green Cert) FORUM Connemara Ltd, in co-operation with Teagasc and the GRETB, are running a Level 5 & 6 Agriculture Certification course (Green Cert) in Letterfrack. The Green Cert will run for two years and give farmers formal training and certification in their chosen field. Twenty two young men who embarked on the Green Cert journey have completed the full Green Cert. Two further Green Cert courses have started in Oughterard and Letterfrack, these groups will be finished in two years time.
Back to Work Enterprise Allowance FORUM Connemara Ltd, in conjunction, with the Department of Social Protection run the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance. The scheme allows participants who are on a social protection payment to keep their payment for two years and also work at their own enterprise. Work plans are completed and participants must register with Revenue. To date in 2015 FORUM has dealt with 52 applications for BTWEA.
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Essential Housing Repairs
For information and application form please contact Martin Davis at FORUM 095-41064/ 087-9635144 m.davis@forumconnemara.ie
FORUM Essential Housing Repair Scheme continues to provide the labour and the expertise to improve the living conditions and safety for the elderly, people with disability and vulnerable people in their own homes and in the community. Through this scheme the householders pay for the materials and the work is carried out by part time community employment workers. So far this year, repairs have been carried out for 25 householders. Since May 2012, when FORUM started this scheme, work has been carried out for 93 householders. The type of work carried out includes; taking out baths and replacing them with level access showers, constructing ramps and handrails, drylining, cutting bushes and hedges, improving pathways and driveways, essential painting, laying floor covering, tiling, plumbing, installing doors and windows and lots more essential work. To qualify for this work the householder must be the owner and live in the house that the work is carried out on. The 18 part time workers on the Community Employment Scheme also carry out painting, general repairs and maintenance on the local Health Centres with the materials funded by the HSE; work on local community halls and community buildings; carry out administration, caretaking and environmental work. Scheme participants have undertaken training in Safe Pass, Workplace Safety, First Aid and Manual Handling.
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FORUM Management
FORUM Page
FORUM Staff - Full Time
Terry Keenan, Chairperson John Coyne, CEO Chris Curtin, Evaluator Yvonne Keane, Assistant CEO Michelle Harrison, Health Services Executive Kathleen Kane, Team Leader/Administration Kevin Heanue, Teagasc Cathy Keane, Team Leader/Community Groups Jim Cullen, Galway County Council Anna Marie Mortimer, Secretary/Administration Eithne Nic Dhonnchadha, Galway and Kathleen deCourcey, CE Supervisor Youth in Action Roscomon Education & Training Board Martina Gavin, CE Supervisor Social Care Anne Donald Joyce, Community Representative Martin Davis, CE Supervisor Jenny Conboy, Community Representative Essential Housing Repairs Scheme Mary Kirby, Community Representative Marie Feeney, Adolescent Support Coordinator Martin Conneely, Community Representative Brendan O’Malley, Cllr. Thomas Welby, Galway County Council Employment Mediation Service Cllr. Seamus Walsh, Galway County Council Geraldine Kelly, Cllr. Niamh Byrne, Galway County Council Rural Social Scheme Supervisor Cllr. Eileen Mannion, Galway County Council Brian Conneely, Tús Supervisor Emmet McGloin, IFA Joe Ribbon, Tús Supervisor Sean Heanue, SIPTU Karen Mannion, Tús Supervisor Hugh Musgrave, IFA Joe Conaty, Tús Supervisor Josephine Lally, Community Representative Melissa Wallace, Administration Officer Mary Gannon, Community Representative Rosaleen Ní Shuilleabháin, Leo Hallissey, Environmental Representative Rural Recreation Officer Carmel Geoghegan, Youth Mairead Uí Dhomhnaill, Employment Mediation Service, Gaeltacht Connemara Gearóid deFaoite, Community Development Worker, Gaeltacht The FORUM Project has been funded under Connemara the EU Leader Programme and by the Irish Government under the National Part Time Development Plan 2007 - 2013 and a Brid Staunton, Accounts number of State Agencies Sandra Shattock, Administration Tina Jack, Youth Support Worker
FORUM Management and Staff Wish Everyone a Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year.
FORUM continues to disseminate information through the medium of newsletters and through a weekly broadcast on Connemara Community Radio, which highlights the activities of the FORUM Project. FORUM Website: www.forumconnemara.ie Email: info@forumconnemara.ie Follow us on Twitter: FORUMConnemara Printed by Berry’s Printers 23
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