Events are taking place across Ireland to celebrate 30 years of Pobal, highlighting the progress made over the past three decades towards social inclusion, equality and community development.
The second regional event took place this week at the Ardilaun Hotel in Galway, where Minister Joe O’Brien gave an engaging opening keynote address.
Speaking to attendees at the event, Minister Joe O’Brien said that the development of rural Ireland depends on the collaboration and partnership between Government Departments, public bodies and State agencies, as well as with sectoral representatives and local and community groups.
“Pobal and the groups present today are valuable stakeholders for DRCD as we collectively strive to work towards a common goal to strengthen community resilience, enhance social cohesion and support community development,” he said.
Representatives from the early learning and care sector, social enterprises and community and voluntary organisations were treated to an engaging agenda and discussion.
On the panel were Dr Rita Melia, lecturer in Early Childhood Education and Care at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Kensika Monshengwo, Intercultural Training Coordinator, Immigrant Council of Ireland and Martin Ward, Coordinator, Galway Traveller Movement.
Guest speaker Vincent Carragherm Project Manager and Research Fellow at University of Galway, spoke about a new ‘Toolkit to drive co-creation and Climate Action’ to support decarbonised communities to reduce their carbon footprint by 2050, while CEO of Pobal, Anna Shakespeare, closed the event.
Commenting on their 30th anniversary celebrations, Anna Shakespeare said: “Our 30th year is a unique opportunity to showcase the remarkable work of the organisations, local groups, social enterprises, charities and early learning and care providers working alongside Pobal in the Galway region.
“We are celebrating this milestone by highlighting the progress we’ve made in the last three decades towards social inclusion.
“It was wonderful to meet the organisations and the services from across Galway and hear about the work being carried out on the ground.
“Pobal makes a significant difference to individuals, children and families. Now more than ever, the programmes we administer on behalf of Government are providing critical support and assistance to those in need of it most.”
