Co. Monaghan VEC made application for funding to the Monaghan County Development Board Peace III Peace and Reconciliation Partnership. The following actions received funding and the programmes will be implemented in 2009 - 2010.
Action 1.1 Fostering good relations through a county wide programme of events
This is a cross community programme aimed at engaging members of the 55 youth clubs registered with Co. Monaghan VEC. This project involves sharing space, programmes, skills and equipment during the period October 2009 and November 2010.
Action: 1.2 Towards an inclusive youth work setting
This is a cross-community training event for youth leaders in Co. Monaghan. These leaders will receive Training in diversity awareness and anti-sectarianism with a view to embedding an inclusive culture into youth clubs and organisations.
Action: 1.3 Diversity awareness in the classroom
This initiative will provide diversity awareness and anti-sectarianism training for teachers of Religion, English, History and/or CSPE (civic, social and political education) on a cross-community basis. This training will then be used and new knowledge disseminated in the classroom during the delivery of a six-week programme on the historical, social, economic or political impact of diversity in general and sectarianism in particular. On completion of this programme, schools will have the opportunity to take a class group on a study visit to Northern Ireland.
Action: 1.4 Reading and reflecting on the legacy left from the past
This project will engage teenagers in second level settings to reflect on anti-sectarian values and attitudes and other socially divisive behaviour through a reading, writing and public debating programme.
Action: 1.5 Our visual images of peace
These cross-community art and media programmes delivered to 100 young people in after-school clubs and youth club settings will focus on the themes of diversity awareness, community relations and peace and will culminate in an exhibition of the participants work.
Action: 1.6 Community action project for peace and reconciliation
This project will facilitate early school leavers to explore and share experiences of living in a border town. They will also learn to manage and understand feelings of sectarian anger and to explore options available for building good relations in their communities.
Action: 1.7 A cross community youth ensemble
This project will engage young musicians and vocalists in a cross-community programme aimed at blending the music, instruments and songs associated with different religious and cultural traditions.
Action: 1.8 Youth activity diversity audit
This research project aims to establish the proportion of youth members engaged in youth clubs, youth projects and youth activities in Co. Monaghan who are from minority religious, cultural and ethnic groups.
The pictures show Youth leaders who took part in a two day Intercultural and Diversity Awareness Training Workshop in Carrickmacross on the 7th and 8th September 2009. The event was organised by Co. Monaghan VEC Youth Work Service, facilitated by NYCI and funded under the Co. Monaghan PEACE III Programme.
Bonding Beyond Boundaries Youth Club Event is a resounding success!
The first Co. Monaghan Bonding Beyond Boundaries Youth Club Event took place on Tuesday 20th October 2009 in the YWCA building in Monaghan town. The event was held to launch Action 1.1 of the Co. Monaghan VEC PEACE III Programme. Funding for this programme was received from Monaghan County Development Board Peace III Peace & Reconciliation Partnership.
The aim of the event was to assist youth clubs forge new relationships with other youth clubs in Co. Monaghan and thus to break down traditional and organisational barriers. A total of twenty three clubs were represented on the night.
The groups were welcomed by Maeve McCabe, Co. Monaghan VEC Youth Officer and this was followed by a short presentation by Alan Ryan, Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Project Support Worker. The aims of the PEACE III programme and the funding opportunities available under the Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Programme were outlined. In addition, the criteria required for a successful application was explained.
Clubs were then invited to sit at their designated tables and commence the introduction process. Each club was given five minutes to discuss their current needs and their resources with a view to commencing joint ventures e.g. sharing of facilities and leaders, inter club competitions and shared programmes. After each five minute period a club moved to a new table.
A brief intermission was held after fifty minutes to allow leaders and young members time to gather their thoughts and notes and enjoy the refreshments on offer. Then it was back to work with renewed enthusiasm! The evening continued and clubs that didn’t meet in the first session were now given the opportunity to discuss options.
The event was a huge success and feedback from the clubs was very positive. Clubs left the event with new ideas and the contact details of other clubs and some even found their ‘match’. Club representatives will now report to their respective committees and then proceed with plans to implement joint programme opportunities. Particular interest was shown in hosting other clubs and exchanging leaders to assist in singing, basketball activities, outdoor activities and hill walking events.
User friendly application forms were provided on the night and the momentum now lies with the youth clubs. A large number of applications are anticipated and it is expected that the outcomes of the proposals will provide the impetus for cross community events in the year ahead. Co. Monaghan VEC PEACE III staff members will be on hand throughout the year to assist clubs with their applications, programme planning and implementation.
If you missed this event, do not despair. The positive feedback received and the ‘buzz’ generated from the event itself means that there will be another Bonding Beyond Boundaries Youth Club Event early in 2010. For further details contact Maeve McCabe or Alan Ryan on 047-30888.
The clubs represented on the night were: Ballybay Youth Fellowship, 2nd Monaghan Scout Group. Castleblayney Includus, 38th Monaghan Town Girls Brigade, Youth Café Castleblayney, Killanny Young Pioneer Club, Clontibret Girls Brigade, Donagh Basketball Club, Foróige District Council, 1st Glaslough Boys Brigade, 4th Monaghan Magheracloone Scouts, Castleblayney Youth Choral Group, Mullaghmatt/Cortolvin Foróige Club, Killeevan Foróige Club, Clones Youth Club, Castleblayney Green Group, Clontibret Boys Brigade, Aghabog Foróige Club, Special Needs Active Parents (SNAP), Ballybay Youth Club, Corcaghan Youth Club, Derryvalley Youth Club and Club Na nÓg Ballinode.
Co. Monaghan VEC PEACE III Programme
December 2009 Update.
Over the last two weeks the Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Programme has arranged, facilitated and funded a range of training and social events for youth club leaders and members in Co. Monaghan. The aim of the programme is to encourage leaders and members to build better relationships with other organisations by participating in joint training, social and competitive events.
Youth Leadership Training
1. Drama Workshop 2nd December 2009: The Drama Workshop was aimed at assisting youth club leaders to introduce fun drama icebreakers, improvisation, character development and plays into their own youth settings.
2. Level One Basketball Course 5th and 6th December 2009: This course provided accredited training for youth club leaders to assist them in enhancing their coaching skills.In the new year youth club leaders will take this new found training and develop basketball in their own community.
3.Cultural Competency Awareness Course 10th December 2009: This programme assisted participants to learn the theory and skills required to work in multi-ethnic youth work settings.
The ‘Host a Club’ Scheme
This scheme provides funding to enable small youth clubs engage in cross community and cross organisation activity. Four events took place in December 2009.
A Night Hike and trip to the Cooley Mountains were initiatives undertaken jointly by the leaders and members from Monaghan Town Scouts and Clontibret Boys Brigade.
A laser quest night was enjoyed by both Killeevan Foróige Youth Club and Monaghan Town Scouts. The object of the game was to eliminate the other team members by shooting infra red beams at the tags on their body. This laser quest event proved to be very popular and judging by the enjoyment displayed, demand for this activity will rise.
The Special Needs Active Parents (SNAP) Christmas party was a bit hit with its members both young and old. Festive games and activities took place on the day and Santa Clause made a grand entrance by horse and cart. He also provided a gift for each member. Aghabog Foroige Club were also in attendance, not only to enjoy the festivities but also to perform a carol singing service for the party. A great day was had all who attended the event.
The Monday night group of Iónad na nÓg, Clones invited young people from St. Patrick’s Accommodation Centre to a festive party in their centre. The focus of the event was to introduce the young people from Clones to people from different cultures and to do a joint art activity which celebrates their culture. Each child got a special present of a selection box as a memento of the night together.
If you or your club would like to take part in any future joint training opportunities, ‘host a club’ events or competitions please note that Co. Monaghan VEC is arranging an action packed spring programme and the VEC is keen to support your suggestions. For further information and to find out how your club can be involved, contact Maeve McCabe or Alan Ryan on 047-30888 or email aryan@monaghanvec.ie
Co. Monaghan Youth Ensemble
Many young people attended the ensemble auditions on Saturday 5th December 2009. A broad range of instruments and ability levels were in evidence. The young people selected to participate in the ensemble will commence the programme with a one-day workshop on Saturday 30th January2010 in the Iontas Centre in Castleblayney. This event will be facilitated by Dorothy Conaghan, Young Dublin Symphonia. For more details, contact Maeve McCabe, 047-30888 or email: youth@monaghanvec.ie.
Adult Basic Education Programme
Co Monaghan VEC is currently running a part-time basic education course with a Community Development theme and accredited at FETAC Level 3. This cross community course will cover FETAC modules such as Organising Committees, Living in a Diverse Society, Communications and Computer Literacy. For further information please contact Helen Fitzpatrick on 047 30888 or call into the VEC Administration Offices, Market St., Monaghan.
All the activities outlined above are part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development fund through the Peace III Programme and funded through Monaghan Peace III Partnership.
READING AND REFLECTING IN THE CLASSROOM
Second level schools in Co. Monaghan have registered to participate in an exciting new reading and reflection programme. The purpose of the programme is to give young students the opportunity to reflect on the legacy left from ‘The Troubles’.
Co. Monaghan VEC, with funding received from Monaghan County Development Board PEACE III Peace and Reconciliation Partnership, provided the reading material and the impetus for reflection.Class sets of the reading material- The Divided City (Theresa Breslin), Divided Cities (Joe Calame) and The Joan Lingard Series were distributed to schools.
Following classroom reflection on the content, theme and tone of the reading material, students are encouraged to submit items of written work to the class teacher for evaluation and comment. The teacher on conclusion of this process will collate the submissions of work and submit the strongest pieces in the presentation folder provided.
The work presented will be compiled into four sections. The first three sections are short stories, poetry and essay compositions.Section four will allow students to choose their own medium of expression (e.g. art, film, music, interview etc).
Schools have the option to submit work in the sections of their choice.Prizes will be awarded to the best entry in each section and selected work will be published in an anthology. An opportunity to visit a ‘Divided City’, to the value of €5000, will be available to the school that presents the best portfolio (all four sections). The winning portfolio must be a class group endeavour and meet the specified criteria.It must also be ambitious in content and reach, be well presented and contain a high standard of writing. The closing date for submissions is Friday 22nd January 2010.
Co. Monaghan VEC would like to acknowledge the support it received from schools and teachers and wish all groups every success.For further information or to register your school, contact Maeve McCabe, VEC Youth Officer, Co. Monaghan VEC Administration Centre, Market Street, Monaghan.
READING AND REFLECTION ON THE LEGACY LEFT FROM THE PAST PRESENTATION OF AWARDS
Students and teachers from eleven second level schools gathered in The Hillgrove Hotel on Wednesday 24th March 2010 in anticipation of hearing the results of the ‘Reading and Reflecting on the Legacy left from the Past’ Competition which was organized by Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Project.
The attendees were welcomed to the event and addressed by Maeve McCabe, VEC Youth Officer. In her address Maeve said: ‘I would like to welcome you all to this Award Ceremony. In particular, I would like to welcome representatives of Monaghan Peace III Partnership Board, Sean Conlon and Charley McGuinness, teachers, with a special mention to Tanya and Laura who traveled down from Cambridge House Grammar School in Belfast to be with us today, students from the eleven participating schools, our adjudicator Jaki McCarrick and our guest speaker Mary McCleary’.
The Youth Officer continued ‘The purpose of this event is to acknowledge the efforts made by the schools and to reward the talents displayed by students who participated in this project. I hope everyone will take the time to view the work on display and additional entries will be shown during the presentation.
This project, ‘Reading and Reflecting on the Legacy left from the Past’ is one action in the overall Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Plan. This plan is part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund through the Peace III Programme and funded through Monaghan Peace III Partnership. This financial support is most welcome and greatly appreciated.
This project offered schools a unique and innovative opportunity to discuss sectarian and racist issues. Its impact is reflected in the range and standard of the work produced. Reading material was provided to schools, teachers facilitated the reading of this material, they encouraged discussion and debate, invited students to submit items of written and creative work, evaluated this work and selected items for the school portfolio. Two essays, two poems, two short stories and a creative piece were presented in the portfolios and these were then collected in the schools and dispatched to Jaki McCarrick for appraisal. .
The impetus for classroom discussion and debate came from the reading material. The books provided to the schools included the Joan Lingard Trilogy and Divided City by Theresa Breslin. Both authors were naturally delighted to be associated with the project and passed on their best wishes to all the participants.
A message on dvd sent by Theresa Breslin was then shown to those in attendance. In it she outlined the impetus for her book, the research undertaken and the impact of the book. The author stated in subsequent correspondence, that she would hope some of the students would travel to Glasgow to view the city at first hand, to see the areas identified in the book and to take the opportunity to visit projects dealing with the issue of sectarianism. She is willing to meet and work with the group on this occasion. An e-mail from Joan Lingard was also read to the group and it was clear that her fondness for the two central characters Kevin and Sadie has not diminished over the years.
Mary McCleary, a local author and artist, then addressed the group. Her current book, Betrayals, is set in a small village in Northern Ireland and reflects many of the issues that she encountered during her childhood and subsequently influenced her life. Mary explained the richness of the material available for authors who want to set their storylines in Northern Ireland. She stated ‘You have shown, from the work on display today, that you have reflective and creative minds. I hope you will continue on this path and take encouragement from the positive feedback you receive today. It may be a long road but do not give up’.
THE ADJUDICATION
There were four sections to this competition, namely, short stories, poetry, essays and creative work. All four sections carried equal marks and were judged by Jaki McCarrick. Prior to announcing the winners, Jaki addressed the group. She stated that she was highly impressed with the quality and range of entries. It was clear that the books generated debate and reflection. In particular, she urged that the suggestions made by the students for moving ‘divided cities’ forward be collated and send to the relevant authorities for deliberation.
The prizes were then presented to the students/schools during which the creative films, mimes and presentations were viewed.
TEACHERS
In conclusion, a big thank you was expressed to all the teachers who embraced the project and for the work they contributed to making it an outstanding success. This work was additional to the current workload and delivered on a voluntary basis. Each teacher was then presented with a Certificate of Participation and a detailed breakdown of the results.
THE RESULTS
SHORT STORY
1.Duty and TraditionOur Lady’s Secondary School, Castleblayney
2.The River that Divides UsBeech Hill College
3.Peace Project StoryPatrician High School, Carrickmacross
3.The OneSt. Louis Secondary School, Carrickmacross
POETRY
1.The TroublesBeech Hill College
2. From Darkness to LightCastleblayney College
3.The Day that Everyone will rememberBallybay Community College
3.When Words Turn to BloodSt Louis Secondary School, Carrickmacross
3.The TroublesSt. Louis Secondary School, Monaghan
DIVIDED CITY ESSAY
1.Healing a Divided CitySt. Macartans College
2.How a Divided City Might Move ForwardCambridge House Grammar School
3. South AfricaSt. Louis Secondary School, Carrickmacross
CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF LINGARD NOVEL
1. CA of Kevin and Sadie SeriesPatrician High School, Carrickmacross
2.CA of a Lingard NovelBallybay Community College
3.RetaliationSt. Louis Secondary School, CMX
OPEN SECTION
1.MetamorphosisPatrician High School, Carrickmacross
1.Ed 4 RachelCambridge High School Grammar School Belfast
PatricianHigh School, Carrickmacross; St. LouisSecondary School, Carrickmacross
Castleblayney College; Ballybay Community College; Castleblayney Youthreach; St. Macartans College;Cambridge House Grammar School, Belfast; Inver College Carrickmacross; St. Louis Secondary School, Monaghan.
This project is part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund through the Peace III Programme and funded through Monaghan Peace III Partnership.
This two day course, facilitated by the National Youth Council of Ireland, is designed to ease participants through a policy development process with the aim of developing an intercultural policy template for their own organisation.
This course will include sessions on:
Understanding the purpose of policy development
Exploring different policy models and choosing appropriate models for development
Fitting organisational practices to policy templates and exploring challenges to change
Assessing current practice
Planning for change
This course is best suited to volunteers/staff of youth organisations, school staff and others working with young people in after school or out of school settings.
This course is free of charge but booking is essential as places are limited!!
This project is part-funded by the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund through the PEACE III Programme
TEACHERS EMBRACE NEW LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Thirty teachers, principals and education personnel working in both primary and second-level schools in Co. Monaghan joined with colleagues in Northern Ireland to participate in a personal and professional training programme exploring the legacy left by the conflict in Northern Ireland. The course was organised by Co. Monaghan VEC and funded by the Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Programme with finance received from the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund.
The residential course on the 6th and 7th November was based in Belfast and examined the issues of segregation, diversity, inclusion and the issues that emerge when living in a contested space. The programme provided an opportunity for participants to explore political and civil structures within Northern Ireland and the consequential divisions arising as a result of cultural, political and religious difference.
The aim of the course was to provide teachers with opportunities to reflect and challenge personally held beliefs, values and attitudes to diversity, and to understand the implications for practice. It served to build their confidence and their capacity to challenge current thinking and behaviour and it provided opportunities to develop a range of strategies and methodologies that would enhance classroom learning.
The course commenced with a visit to Stormont to gain greater insight into the political context of Northern Ireland. The group took a guided tour and was hosted by Fred Cobain MLA, a member of the Ulster Unionist Party. He provided an insight into the community work undertaken by some political leaders. This work is contributing to improving relations at grass root level. The presentation ended with a question and answer session at which honest opinions, thoughts and viewpoints were shared.
In the afternoon the teachers went on a political and social tour of Belfast City visiting the Ardoyne, the Short Strand and The Falls Road areas. The group saw murals depicting the history and culture of both religious traditions. Some murals gave great insight into what life was like during ‘The Troubles’, others showed a sense of ‘moving on’ through peace and reconciliation and yet more empathised and expressed solidarity with international events and conflicts. The images viewed and the information received gave new meaning and greater relevance to the data and pictures contained in modern day classroom text books.
The day continued with group participation in evening workshops. Topics included: building group dynamics; an introduction to the power of assumptions; an introduction to identity studies; the values inherent in diversity education; the Conflicts of Interest Programme. Information on the latter was provided by Mr Tommy McKearney (Expac) who addressed the group. He explained the programme as a series of seminars aimed at bringing the participants on a journey to reach a more sympathetic understanding of all those affected by the troubles. Teachers will have an opportunity to participate in this course in February 2010.
The second day began with a workshop that explored the relationship between prejudice, stereotyping and discrimination. This was followed by a strong input from Pete Shirlow, (Senior Lecturer, School of Law in Queens University Belfast). He outlined the results of the recent Population and Inclusion Study of Derry. This study outlined opinions of both religious communities to issues of residential segregation, intimidation at work, ‘neutral’ areas and violence. It also showed reductions in security related incidences, sectarian incidents and recorded sectarian motivated crime. The day concluded with a workshop that focussed on dealing with controversial issues in the classroom.
The feedback received from the residential course was extremely positive. During the evaluation process and in subsequent correspondence participants stated it was ‘the best course I have ever experienced’, ‘it definitely left an impression on me’, ‘It was truly inspiring’, ‘I gained so much in such a short time’, ‘It was great to meet so many people so passionate about their work with today’s young people’.
The weekend event was organised by Maeve McCabe, Youth Officer, Co. Monaghan VEC. The programme was expertly facilitated by Eamonn McCallion and Lisa Dietrich (Community Relations in Schools). Teachers, principals and education staff from the following schools and centres participated in the event: St. Louis Girl’s National School Monaghan, Castleblayney Youthreach, Patrician High School Carrickmacross, Ballybay Community College, Largy College Clones, Our Lady’s Secondary School Castleblayney, Beech Hill College Monaghan, St. Macartan’s College Monaghan, Doohamlet National School, Monaghan Collegiate School, St. Catherine’s College Armagh, Cambridge House Grammer School Ballymena, Inver College Carrickmacross, Model School Monaghan, St. Louis Secondary School Monaghan, Monaghan Education Centre and Co. Monaghan VEC
Additional courses will be provided in 2010. If your school would like to be involved please contact Maeve McCabe, Youth Officer, VEC Administration Centre, Market Street Monaghan 047-0888
Co. Monaghan Youth Ensemble
This project will engage 30 young musicians and vocalists in a cross-community programme aimed at blending the music, instruments and songs associated with different religious and cultural traditions. This ensemble will perform at four PEACE III showcase events
Young musicians and singers individually or representing different religious and cultural groups in Monaghan will be invited to participate in the programme.
The resultant eclectic mix of musicians will participate in an initial twelve month programme. This will involve two musical directors working with the young people for two hours each week for three periods of ten weeks.
It is expected that this ensemble will remain together beyond the lifetime of the project and support from the Arts Council through the Music Network will be requested.
Objectives
To develop cross community relationships
To facilitate the sharing of musical skills and experiences
To promote understanding and acceptance of others
To produce a blend of music that is reflective of the variety of religious and cultural traditions in Monaghan
Expected Results
30 young people will participate in cross community relations
2 musical directors will receive Diversity Awareness Training
The group will perform at four PEACE III showcase
YOUTH CLUB MEMBERS ENJOY TAG RUGBY COMPETITON
The first Co. Monaghan VEC Inter-Club Tag Rugby Event took place on Saturday 28th November 2009 in Ballybay. The competition was part of Action 1.1 of the Co. Monaghan VEC PEACE III Programme ‘Fostering good relations through a county wide programme of events’.
The aim of the event was to create opportunities for youth club members to come and try tag rugby in a fun non-competitive setting and at the same time to interact with other groups regardless of religious or ethnic background. A total of seven clubs were represented on the day and over 60 young people were in attendance. Youth leaders and family members also came along to offer their support.
The groups were welcomed to the event by Alan Ryan, Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Project Support Worker. The participants were then introduced to the basic playing rules of tag rugby by David McGregor, Youth Development Officer Ulster Rugby (Monaghan Representative).
Once the introductions and rules were completed the clubs were divided into teams and the games began. Mixed teams had six players and multiple substitutions were allowed to give everyone an opportunity to play. Each team played three times ensuring strong interaction between participants both on and off the field. Drinks and hot food were provided throughout the day to keep the players hydrated and to keep their energy levels high.
In the near future each participant will be given a sweatshirt as a reward for their involvement in the tag rugby event and to remind them about the fun side of participating with other youth club members.
The tag rugby Inter-club event was a big hit with the participants and they are already looking for a follow up event!!! If your club missed this event please note that Co. Monaghan VEC will be holding more inter-club events in the coming months so keep checking your local notes and the website www.monaghanvec.ie for updates. For further information you can also contact Alan Ryan on 047-30888 or email aryan@monaghanvec.ie
Co. Monaghan VEC would like to acknowledge the support of Brendan Macklin & Pearse Brothers Ballybay for the use of the facilities, the referees, David McGregor Jnr & James Puttahree whose guidance and enthusiasm made the day a huge success and to Michael Gissane of the Irish Red Cross for providing first aid on the day.
The clubs represented on the day were: Glaslough Boys Brigade, Scotstown Community Games, Ballybay Youth Club, Clones Youth Club, Ballybay/Tullycorbett Youth Group, Creevagh Reformed Presbyterian Youth Club, St. Patrick’s Accommodation Centre and Doohamlet Youth Club.
Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Programme Gathers Momentum
The Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Programme Strand 1 has eight actions that aim to develop positive proactive relationships between individuals and groups involved in youth settings in Co. Monaghan. This article outlines events that took place during the week commencing January 30th 2010.
Rounders Competition for Youth Club Members
Saturday 30th January 2010
Young youth club members gathered in the Phoenix Centre, Carrickmacross to participate in a cross community inter-club rounders competition. Seven teams of seven players used their batting, fielding and team skills to outwit their opponents and achieve home runs. At the end of the competition each club was presented with a rounders equipment kit to enable further practice to take place. The young club members are now looking forward to the next rounders event which will be held at an outdoor venue in May 2010.
This rounders event was co-ordinated by Alan Ryan, Co. Monaghan VEC Project Support Worker, facilitated by Paul O’Connor, GAA Games Development Officer and officiated by Colin Malone and Marty Curry, GAA Development Coaches. The participating youth clubs were Glaslough Girls Brigade, Carrickmacross Scouting Group, St. Patrick’s Accommodation Centre Youth Club, Clones Youth Club, Glaslough Boys Brigade, Castleblayney Youth Club and Ballybay Youth Club.
. Action 1.7: Youth Ensemble Workshop
Saturday 30th January 2010
Members of Co. Monaghan VEC cross community youth ensemble gathered in the Iontas Centre, Castleblayney to participate in a one day ensemble workshop. This event was designed to use the medium of music to encourage group work among young people and to provide a unique performance opportunity for budding musicians.
The ensemble members, playing a wide variety of instruments, worked under the guidance of Dorothy Conaghan, Dublin Youth Symphonia and a consultant on the recent RTE show ‘Music changes lives’. Dorothy, assisted by the ensemble directors Emily Mc Meel and Nathan Latimer, arranged the music of Christ Church, The Drunken Sailor and The Bear Necessities to suit the instruments and ability levels of the group. With great attention to detail and using a variety of innovative teaching techniques, Dorothy guided the musicians so that in the afternoon they were collectively playing the three tunes. Dorothy also shared her vast knowledge with Emily and Nathan to assist them with future ensemble workshops.
In parallel workshops, Karen Lennon assisted the singers by taking them though warm ups, breathing exercises and singing techniques.
At the end of the day, the young ensemble members and singers put on their first performance for their parents and received a solid, enthusiastic round of applause. The young musicians now look forward to further ensemble workshops which will take place in the coming months.
The next outing for the ensemble members is a visit to the National Concert Hall in Dublin on Saturday 13th February to view performances at the IAA 15th Festival of Youth Orchestras. This event will be co-ordinated by Maeve McCabe, VEC Youth Officer.
The members of the youth ensemble who attended this event included: Sarah & Celine McNally, Sean, Michael & Helen McKenna, Tabita Agnew, John Treanor, Tiarna Lavelle, Cillian McCabe, Eoin McCarville, Rachel & Kevin Lyden, Aine, Eabha & Orna Ni Fhlanagain, Enda O’Reilly, Eimear Finnegan, Nicole Martin, Lisa McCabe, Leona McCaul, James McElroy and Jack Brennan
Young musicians, particularly those from minority religious and minority ethnic groups, are invited to join the ensemble. For further details, contact Maeve McCabe, 047-30888.
Youth Ensemble participants and leaders Karen Lennon, Emily McMeel, Nathan Latimer with Dorothy Conaghan (Dublin Youth Symphonia) and Maeve McCabe (Youth Officer)
Action 1.6: Youthreach Centres Participate in Diversity Awareness
Tuesday 2nd February and Thursday 4th February 2010
Thirty eight Youthreach students from Carrickmacross and Castleblayney, accompanied by six tutors, made the trip to Belfast to participate in social and political tours of the city. These tours facilitated by Eamonn McCallion (Community Relations in Schools), helped the young participants to see at first hand the areas, people and communities most affected by the Troubles. In addition, the current work of community activists in building positive cross community relations was outlined. The young people had the opportunity to engage in dialogue which helped them to share their views, debate conflicting viewpoints and receive answers to their queries.
Action 1.2: Building Inclusive Youth Settings
Political Tour of South Armagh
Wednesday 3rd February 2010.
Eighteen youth leaders from Counties Monaghan and Louth participated in a political tour of South Armagh. The aim of the day was to learn about ‘the Troubles’ from two perspectives. The new knowledge and awareness gained will be used to assist youth leaders to combat sectarian attitudes and behaviours in youth settings.
The tour commenced with a visit to Ti Chulainn, Mullaghbane to listen to the views of two republican ex prisoners, Jimmy Fox and Pat Thompson. They outlined their experiences of growing up in South Armagh, the impact ‘the Troubles’ and republicanism had on the course of their lives and their current work in the community providing services for republican ex prisoners. The youth leaders were brought on a short tour of South Armagh to see key sites that hold significant historical importance for republicans. Sites included Forkhill Army Base, Donnelly’s Pub and two memorial sites erected to commemorate the lives of IRA Volunteers.
After lunch, the youth leaders continued their journey and visited Tullyvallen Orange Hall where they were welcomed by David McMullan, David Smyth and Billy Moorecroft. The group, all members of the Orange Order, outlined the history of the Orange Order, their experiences of the troubles and in particular their memory of the 1975 murders that took place in the Lodge. An open and frank discussion followed which helped the youth leaders to understand the efforts made in upgrading the hall and using it as a focal point for community activities, the legacy left in the community as a result of ‘the troubles’ and their views on the recent impasse in Northern Ireland.
Youth leaders now have the opportunity to reflect on the learning gained from this tour and to consider ways of enhancing understanding among their young youth club members.
Note:
All the above events are part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund Investing in Your Future. The money is administered by Monaghan County Development Board PEACE III Peace and Reconciliation Partnership. Events are supported, organised and facilitated by members of Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Team, Maeve McCabe, Alan Ryan and Helen McDonald. If you want to find out more about the VEC Peace III Programme, please contact a member of the team on 047-30888.
Over the course of the Easter holidays Co. Monaghan VEC’s Peace III Project has arranged a series of training and social events for youth activity members in Co. Monaghan.
DJ workshop
This one day workshop is a unique opportunity for youth club members to learn the basic principles of djing. Members will learn how to effectively use turntables and how to create music pieces using the latest computer software. Each member will also be given the opportunity to create their own mix in the digital and recording studio. The workshop will take place on Wednesday 7th April from 9.00am - 5.00pm in the Amma Centre Armagh. Bus will leave Monaghan Town at 9am from McNally’s car park, Monaghan and return at 5pm.
The Armagh Story
This is an opportunity for youth activity members to visit historical locations in Armagh. Saint Patrick's Trian Visitor Complex is an exciting visitor complex that allows you to step back in time and visit historic Armagh. The day will include a visit to Armagh Jail to see one of the main detention centres for women which was in use during ‘the troubles’. And finally a visit to the Navan Centre, which is home to one of the Ireland’s most important ancient monuments, Navan Fort. This was the royal seat of the Kings of Ulster and the Province’s ancient capital. The trip will take place on Thursday 8th April from 9.00am - 5.00pm. Bus will leave Monaghan Town at 9am from McNally’s car park, Monaghan and return at 5pm.
Orienteering Training
This is an exciting opportunity for youth club members to learn the fundamental skills of orienteering and develop the skills needed to read maps and identify map symbols. These fundamental map reading skills will then be put through a series of fun exercises around the Tanagh centre. Furthermore, members will learn how to navigate their way through Dartrey forest using the latest electronic orienteering equipment. The trip will take place on Friday 9th April from 10.00am - 4.00pm in Tanagh Outdoor Education Centre, Rockcorry. Participants must make their own way to Tanagh for 10am and collected at 4pm. In specific cases transport can be arranged.
All three events are free of charge but booking is essential as places are limited! Booking forms are available on request or from Co. Monaghan VEC Administration Office. For further information or to book your place contact Alan Ryan on 047-30888 or email aryan@monaghanvec.ie
All the activities outlined above are part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development fund through the Peace III Programme and funded through Monaghan Peace III Partnership.
Alan Ryan
Peace III Project Support Worker
Co. Monaghan VEC
VEC Administration Centre
Market Street
Monaghan
Tel: 047 30888
Email: aryan@monaghanvec.ie
The Partners in Learning Committee in Castleblayney are promoting a
One Book – One Blayney Project
during March and April 2010. This literacy initiative encourages the whole community to read a selected
book during the stated period. The selected book is
Across the Barricades by Joan Lingard
This book is about friendship and it’s consequences in a divided city.
This project is part-financed by The European Unions European Regional Development Fund which is administered by Monaghan County Development Board Peace III Peace and Reconciliation Partnership. This project is supported by the Co. Monaghan VEC Peace III Programme.
Monaghan VEC Youth Work Service opened a treasure chest of talent during the staging of the First VEC Youth Club Talent Showcase on Thursday 29th April 2010. The event was held to increase awareness of the quality and diversity of youth activity in Co. Monaghan. The acts were provided by youth work clubs in Co. Monaghan.
Nine youth clubs hit the stage in the Íontas Centre, Castleblayney and enthralled a captive audience with their skills, talents and enthusiasm. Drama, singing and instrumental music figured highly on the full and exciting programme. Monaghan Elim/Y.W.C.A opened the event by outlining their youth work focus and informing the audience of their recent ‘Remission’ event held in The Retail Park in Monaghan.
Three drama acts of the highest calibre followed. These were performed by members of Monaghan Youth Theatre, Doohamlet Youth Club and Carrickmacross Youth Club. Great credit for the high standard is not only due to the young people but also to their leaders Krista Hamilton, Terri Cumiskey and Angela Fealy.
The audience was then captivated by singing from members of Creevagh Youth Club , Fusion (Castleblayney Youth Vocal Group) and Truagh Youth Choir. Old favourites such as ‘Earth song’, ‘Down to the River’, ‘Never Forget’, ‘’Go Insane’, Circle of Life’, ‘I can see clearly now’ were sung expertly and with great passion.
The atmosphere was further charged by an outstanding performance by An Lochrann Linn Youth Band. Their repertoire included ‘Eye of the Tiger’, ‘Singing Safari’, ‘Any dream will do’ and ‘La Bamba’. The audience en masse began to foot tap and clap. This performance was indeed a rare treat for members of the audience and many thanks to An Lochrann Linn Band for accepting the invitation to participate.
The night concluded with a performance by the VEC Youth Ensemble. This ensemble only commenced practice in March 2010 and it was great to witness the progress made in such a short time. Well done to Emily McMeel, Nathan Latimer and all the members.
The show was closed by Maeve McCabe, VEC Youth Officer who thanked all the participants, leaders and members of the audience.
This event was organised by Alan Ryan, Peace III Project Support Worker with the support of Helen McDonald & Maeve McCabe.
This project was part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development fund through the Peace III Programme and funded through Monaghan Peace III Partnership.
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