Great attendance at a Training & Networking Workshop for Community Committees

Representatives from 18 Irish community committees, including Gaeltacht and ex-Gaeltacht committees, were present at a two-day Training & Networking Workshop organized by Glór na nGael in the Hodson Bay hotel in Athlone recently (9-10 May 2023).

Caitríona Nic Seoin, Development Manager with Glór na nGael said that it is important to provide the space for the community groups to come together. “Glór na n’Gael exists to support the people of the country in promoting the Irish language. One of the ways we can do that is to organize events like this for those who are dealing with the community on a local basis”

Not only can they learn about new tools such as VR, perhaps more importantly, it gives them the opportunity to get to know each other, share experiences and discuss issues and common themes” said Nic Seoin.

There was very positive feedback from the participants over the two days. “When I go back to the office I will be looking at how we will be able to use that (VR) for ourselves in the Irish community of Tallaght. There are many advantages.” said Dawn Nic Íomhair, Development Officer with Gaelphobal Thamlachta. “Today was so interesting. Meeting people from other districts who are doing the same work” which creates opportunities for collaboration in the future, according to her.

According to Dónall Ó Ainiféin, An Clár as Gaeilge, the networking session was a great opportunity. “Many of the community committees I know on the phone and I have discussed with them. It was great to meet them face to face for the first time.” he said.

This event was part of a series of workshops and networking opportunities that will be organized by Glór na Gael during the year

Four main events were organized over the two days.

• A taste of technology from Foróige in relation to the tools they use when working with young people, and a chance to try them out – including VR, Animation, Podcasts and Graphic Design. Presented by Tomás Rickard
• Networking – A networking opportunity between the Gaeltacht Service Town officers, Irish Networks, Irish Network Development Scheme, and Gaeltacht Language Planning Officers
• Closed Forums – Discussion forums for Gaeltacht Service Towns & Irish Language Networks and groups on the Irish Network Development Scheme
• A description of the possibilities of integrated community development based on the development process currently underway in Gaoth Dobhair, by Breandán Mac Cormaic – Coming soon