The Traveller Parish Newsletter

Eastertide – Spring 2010 EASTER GREETINGS

elcome to this edition of The Traveller Parish Newsletter which comes to you in the calendar Wseason of Spring and the Church season of Eastertide. We have come through the dark days of Winter, and yet our lives remain overshadowed by dark clouds of Church scandal, economic recession and, more recently, volcanic ash. At a personal and family level, in recent months there have been a number of tragic and very sad deaths in the community, remembered in prayer in Parish Masses, and also in this edition of the Newsletter. Having prayed through Holy Week on the Passion and Death of Jesus in our Good Friday Liturgy and Stations, we lit the Easter fire in our Easter Vigil Mass, joyfully celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus and his final victory over sin and death. In the words of the Easter liturgy, ’Jesus Christ our Photo courtesy of John McElroy Lord is truly Risen, Alleluia!’ Eastertide finds an echo in Spring with Nature’s bursting workers, priests, and bishops in Rome last month. Finally forth of new life and colour. New life and new beginnings we include, among our other features, the story of the shine through many of our features on life in the Traveller Parish Choir which was formed especially for the community around the Dublin diocese. Here in the Parish, Remembering Annette concert in Tallaght’s Civic Theatre the team has been glad to welcome Georgina Jameson for last month. The main song performed by the Choir, written her five month long placement as part of her training to by the late Annette Halpin, is called ‘Everyone’, and become a Parish Pastoral Worker. Georgina introduces includes the following memorable message: herself and shares some of her impressions and experiences of the community. We hear of the Positive Role Everyone has a part to play in this world Model Seminar which took place in Bray, the 2009 Traveller And every has something to contribute Pride Awards ceremony, the Yellow Flag social inclusion Everyone is of equal value in the eyes of God initiative in St. Dominic’s Secondary School, Ballyfermot, And every person’s voice is worthwhile being heard and the story of Castlebrook, a Housing Project which highlights the importance and value of consulting and On behalf of everyone in the Parish Team, involving Travellers directly in the development of such God Bless, culturally appropriate housing projects. We also tell the story of the invitation we received to present the Parish’s Travelling Towards Inclusion initiative to a Vatican sponsored meeting of European pastoral Fr. D e r e k Fa r r e l l , P. P.

The Traveller Parish Newsletter assumes that the full permission of anyone featured in a photograph has been secured prior to being submitted. As part of our Parish Child Protection Procedures names are not assigned to individual photos of children. Rare exceptions to this are only at the express request of the parents involved, and then at the discretion of the editorial team. Views expressed in The Traveller Parish Newsletter do not necessarily reflect views and policies of the Parish. Some photos submitted to the Newsletter may be used on our website. Thanks to all our contributors. Your views, comments and local news are always welcome at (01) 838 8874 or Email: [email protected]. Parish Website: www.ptrav.ie

Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Pages 6-7 Page 14 Page 21 Page 23 Page 27 CONTENTS Holy Week & Easter 2010 3 Irish Traveller Movement Law Centre 15 Wedding Congratulations 4 The Child Protection Policy Statement of the Recent Christenings 5 Parish of the Travelling People 16 Traveller Pride Awards 2009 6-7 Clúid Traveller Housing Project, Castlebrook 17 Wicklow’s Positive Start to 2010 8 Traveller Arts News 18 Ponytail Gets the Snip for Guide Dogs 8 F.C. Town Football Club Update 19 Hello from Georgina 9 Haiti Fundraiser 20 St. Patrick’s College Research Project 9 Traveller Singer and Songs 21 Celebrating International Women’s Day 2010 10-11 Recently Deceased and Anniveraries 22 Vatican Conference 12 In Memory of Ellen Lawrence and Annette Halpin 23 Deansrath – April 2010 Update 13 Remembering Annette 24 Primary Health Care Graduation 14 Parish News 25 Minceirs Whiden 14 Youth Zone 26-27 The Traveller 3 HOLY WEEK & EASTER 2010 We would like to thank the communities of ST. OLIVER’S PARK, CLONDALKIN St. Margaret’s, Ballymun, and St. Oliver’s Park, Clondalkin, for their warm welcome and prayerful participation in the events and faith gatherings of Holy Week and Easter. n Holy Thursday young and old alike shared in the sacrament of Reconciliation in a beautiful prayer service which took place in the OParish chapel-of-ease in St. Oliver’s Park. Good Friday morning was wet and windy so we gathered indoors with the people of St. Margaret’s in their Community Centre for the Stations of the Cross. It was great to have so many participating in reading the reflections, and especially having so many men stepping forward.

On Good Friday afternoon in Clondalkin the sun came out and the rain stayed away long enough for us to complete our outdoor Stations of the Cross, making our way through the whole site of St. Oliver’s Park and Bridgeview. We concluded by gathering together in the chapel for our Good Friday Holy Communion liturgy. Once again we were blessed to have so many coming forward to read and to lead in the prayers and reflections. ST. MARGARET’S, BALLYMUN Photo courtesy of Lar Boland Photo courtesy of Lar Boland

Finally, on Holy Saturday night we gathered again in St. Oliver’s Park chapel for the Easter Vigil Mass. The Easter fire blazing outside the chapel was blessed, the Easter candle was lit, and the light of the Risen Christ was celebrated and shared among the people gathered. Special thanks to Sr. May and to our trainee Parish Pastoral Worker Georgina for their part in the ceremonies, and all our thanks again to everyone who joined and took part in the beautiful prayer, music and ritual of those

Photo courtesy of Lar Boland three days. 4 The Traveller

Congratulations to all those Recently Married

This special day is here at last Where hope and dreams come true, You won’t believe the happiness That lies in store for you. For as time goes passing by The togetherness that’s shared Will bring along a closeness that Could never be compared.

Darren Mongan & Rose Sharon Reilly Date Names Address 7th December April Ward & Michael Ward Blanchardstown

25th January Rose Sharon Reilly & Darren Mongan Swords

4th February Margaret Collins & John Collins Cara Park 11th February Kathleen Joyce & Keith Duggan Ashbourne 11th February Shenise Power & Robert McDonagh Clondalkin 23rd February Ann Louise Mongan & Pat Corcoran Lucan

15th March Margaret McDonagh & Thomas McDonagh Co. Longford

7th April Bernadette Stokes & Michael Corcoran Inchicore 9th April Kathleen Keenan & John Keenan Pat Corcoran & Ann Louise Mongan

Michael Corcoran & Bernadette Stokes Robert McDonagh & Shenise Power Bernard Joyce & Annmarie Conroy, Clondalkin

Ann & Michael Connors, Wicklow Margaret & John Collins Elizabeth McDonnell & Davy Reilly, Navan

For advice on and details of pre-Marriage preparation and requirements, please contact the Parish Office at 01-838 8874. Also if you would like to see your wedding featured in our Newsletter please forward photo and details to Geraldine/Pauline at Parish of the Travelling People, 6 New Cabra Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7, or preferably by email to [email protected] The Traveller 5

RECENT CHRISTENINGS

A new born little life Comes with a whole lot of love A precious little gift John and Geraldine O’Donnell with Sent from heaven above young Michael and baby Martin, Finglas.

Bridgie & Patrick Collins, baby Stephanie and family with Fr. Paddy Kelly, Finglas.

Baby Angelina Marie McDonagh Ann & Anthony Stokes holding and family, Balgaddy. baby Emma Sinead, Ballymun.

Helen & Patrick Lawrence with baby Jimmy Oliver and family. Maria & Patrick Collins with baby Martin, Finglas.

If you would like to see your Christening in our Newsletter, please send a photograph and details to the Parish Office, 6 New Cabra Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7, or preferably by email to [email protected] 6 The Traveller TRAVELLER PRIDE AWARDS 2009

The Traveller Pride Awards were part of Traveller Focus Week organised by the Irish Traveller Movement, Minceirs Whiden, , National Traveller MABS, the National Traveller Women’s Forum and the National Association of Traveller Centres.

The first ever Traveller Pride Awards were held on 8th of December 2009. The idea of the Traveller Pride Awards is to bring Travellers from across the country together to celebrate and showcase Traveller achievements, whilst highlighting some of the obstacles that exist for Travellers in Irish society. The ultimate aim is to instil pride, increase expectations and celebrate the undoubted positive contribution Travellers have made to Irish life and also the pride and determination one must have in order to succeed as a Traveller.

Achievement in Education The sisters were the first Traveller girls in Labre Park to complete their leaving certificate and pursue third level studies. Sally is a second year student at the Liberties College, Dublin studying Community & Youth Work. Eileen completed a one year access programme in Trinity College, Dublin and is now completing a pre- nursing Course in Ballyfermot College. Eileen has also applied to be part of the Garda reserves. L-R: Catherine Joyce with Sally and Eileen Flynn from Ballyfermot, Dublin

Achievement in Sport Hannah Carthy has overcome many obstacles which exist for Travellers but with a winning determination she has enjoyed successful boxing achievements which include becoming the Irish Amateur All National Girls Champion. L-R: John Joe Joyce with Hannah Carthy from Wetlands, Kilkenny and RTE Presenter, Anne Cassin host of the Traveller Pride Awards

Achievement in Youth Cassandra is a role model for young Travellers and her participation in the Leadership Programme highlights the important contribution young Travellers can make to their community. L – R Brigid Collins, a Youth Worker from Pavee Point and Cassandra Ward from the Galway Youth Leadership Programme

Achievement in Music / Arts / Culture Award presented by Musicians, Kathleen and Mary Keenan (who performed at the Awards) to Selina O’Leary, an exceptional singer and a very good role model for her peers. Selina has been accepted into a music Diploma course at the University of Limerick with the possibility of undertaking a full music degree. L – R Kathleen and Mary Keenan, Selina O’Leary winner of the Music / Arts / and Culture Award The Traveller 7

Achievement in Enterprise Award presented by John McCarthy, Irish Traveller Movement, to Galway Recycling Co-operative (GRC) which was set up in 2009. The aim of the Co-operative, which was established by seven Traveller men, is to provide employment for the Traveller community while at the same time promoting Traveller economy. An inspirational project, the GRC have built up very strong relationships with the local business community and have secured financial backing from the local Credit Union. L-R: John McCarthy (ITM) and two members of the Galway Recycling Co-operative and Anne Cassin

Achievement in Community Development Julie Nevin has been working within her own community for over 20 years. Beginning as a volunteer, she has shown outstanding commitment and a real understanding of social justice and empowerment. Julie has educated herself in order to provide better service to her own people and in so doing is a community champion. L-R: Thomas McCann, Julie Nevin and Anne Cassin

“It is an admirable thing to commit oneself to doing community work, but it is another thing altogether to be willing to work on Traveller issues in a predominantly settled population. There is nearly always a struggle to be taken seriously. It is nearly always a struggle to keep Travellers’ rights on the agenda without making it a poverty issue. And Julie has been fighting this fight for years and years without fuss and without kudos. (Martin Collins, Pavee Point)

Overall Traveller Pride Award 2009 The overall Traveller Pride Award presented by Martin Collins, Pavee L – R Martin Collins, Julie Nevin, the Point, to Julie Nevin, a community winner of the 2009 Overall Traveller development worker and human Pride Award and Anne Cassin rights activist. 8 The Traveller WICKLOW’S POSITIVE START TO 2010 Optimism and hope for the future were the over riding feelings from participants who recently attended a Positive Role Model Seminar for Travellers in Bray. . .

he seminar was organised jointly spoke about the worry of opening her the confidence. The seminar follows by Bray Travellers Community own shop, how she believed that on from a successful poster campaign TDevelopment Project and because she is a Traveller people TAILOR SOLDIER SAILOR Wicklow Travellers Group. Speakers might be prejudiced and not use the launched by the National Association on the day were Jim O’Brien, Manager shop. However, her experience has of Travellers Centres in 2008. The of Bray Travellers Community been that potential buyers were poster portrayed individual Travellers Development Project, Missy Collins of much more interested in good value from around the country who had Pavee Point, who works as a and good customer service than who taken steps into mainstream community health worker and she is. Her business, like most at the employment and self employment. Bridget Kelly of Fantastic Fireplaces in moment, has suffered because of the Loughrea Co. Galway. The aim of the recession but is still providing a living If anyone from the Traveller Community seminar was to identify obstacles and for her family. Bridget’s story was in Co. Wicklow is interested in getting difficulties that Travellers feel prevent inspirational to all in the audience support to either start their own them from getting fully involved in who have thought about setting up business or look for work contact the labour market. Bridget Kelly their own business but didn’t have Orla or Peter at 0404-61878.

PONYTAIL GETS THE SNIP FOR GUIDE DOGS

Having bravely decided to cut off his flowing locks Daniel O’Brien was able to present the fruit of his labours to the Irish Guide Dogs Association in the form of a cheque for €350. Daniel attends St. Patrick’s Boys National School in Wicklow Town and decided he would raise money for the charity by cutting off his carefully cultivated ponytail earlier in the year. On Thursday, Fainche Natoff, a puppy walker for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, dropped into the school to thank Daniel for his efforts and to collect the money raised. The Traveller 9 Hello from Georgina ello All! My name is Georgia Jameson. I am from Traveller Baptisms and Wicklow Town and come from a family of eight. At the reflecting on the Word Hmoment I am training to be a Parish Pastoral Worker, of God during the and from February to June I am here in the Parish of the Sunday liturgy. Indeed, Travelling people. Indeed, it must be said that it has been experience money can’t perhaps one of my most humbling and amazing buy! experiences to date. People have welcomed me into their homes, shared with me their stories, and made me some of I am really looking the most lovely cups of tea. The Parish office is great, getting forward to the rest of my to know all the team has been an honour, and their warm time in this Parish. I have welcome of me has helped the transition into a new Parish loved every second so far, and as smooth as possible. For that I am grateful. believe it’s just a taster of what is to come. One of the things that has struck me most from my To date I have visited many sites, gone to many meetings, working with the Travellers is their strong and genuine faith. organised prayer groups, worked along side Martin Rowan, Something I believe we can all learn from. For this reason I the Pastoral Development Co-ordinator in St. Ronan’s in was particularly excited about celebrating Holy Week and Deansrath and much more. There I have had the privilege of Easter in many of the sites, and also about many more of the meeting many wonderful people, experiencing many wonderful things we will do to explore that faith further.

St. Patrick’s College Research Project Olivia Monaghan is a third year student in St Patrick’s College, Drumcondra. As part of her Human Development course I am required to do a research project. She has chosen to do her research on the Travelling Community. Olivia writes… My project mainly focuses on Parental Involvement and Cultural Aspects. I am particularly interested in the linkages of both these areas to early school leaving among Travellers. Father Sean Farrell (Chaplain of St Patrick’s College) put me in contact with the Parish of the Travelling People. It was through this organisation that I got the opportunity to interview four female Traveller students all attending Second-Level Education and I also interviewed three Traveller Parents. This was a fantastic opportunity for me and I was delighted to be invited into the home of one of the Traveller participants. It was an excellent experience for me to engage and ask questions in relation to parental involvement in schools and also to discuss cultural issues such as marriage, nomadism and several other topics with the Traveller parents. From conducting the interviews I gained a huge knowledge in terms of the Traveller way of life and their opinions. At the moment I am continuing with my research project and I hope to be finished by April 2010. CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN WITH THE LOCAL AND GLOBAL WOMEN’S FAIR IN PAVEE POINT TRAVELLERS CENTRE

ne hundred and ten women day together. The Soal Project made celebrated the International beautiful ribbons of purple and green OWomen’s Day early on the 5th for everyone to wear. of March in Pavee Point. Maureen The day was organised by the Local O’Sullivan, T.D., opened the day by Global Women’s Partnership which is reminding us of the importance of made up of Dublin Multi-Cultural the celebrating the day. Women Resource Centre, LYCS, AIKDWA, from different backgrounds and DALC, DWI, Migrants Rights Centre of experiences then shared their Ireland, Soal Project, Hill St FRC, the extraordinary life stories and showed Roma Programme and the Violence us that there is no such thing as an against Women Programme from “ordinary woman”. Pavee Point. Thanks to all who helped out on the day, the Various workshops were organised and were very well workshop presenters and the individuals and shops who attended where women had a lot of fun singing, drawing, donated goods to make the day a success. learniong about relaxation or dancing. For those who did not want to join in workshops, the kitchen also proved very popular for teas, coffees, delicious cakes, goodies and good DATE FOR YOUR DIARY: chats, as well as a chance to learn flower making, or get a International Women’s Day is celebrated hand massage in the main hall. It was great to see so many every year on the 8th March. women from many different backgrounds celebrating the N’S DAY 2010 CROSSCARE’S WOMEN’S DAY

he Crosscare National Traveller suicide Awareness Project held a Trelaxing coffee morning with relaxing treatments to celebrate International Womens Day on March 8th last. The event which was held in the Parish Office and brought women from a number of projects together to chat, laugh, and avail of relaxing treatments, was hailed a success by the participants. ‘Taking time out and looking after yourself is an important part in looking after your mental health’, Petra Daly said, and that is why, these events are important. Other ways of looking after your mental health include l Regular exercise l Healthy Diet If you would like further information Calling all projects who would like to l Talking to people about any or training on Mental Health or share a story, poem, image about worries you have Suicide Awareness please contact their experiences of mental health l Having an interest or hobby Petra Daly on 086 1729168 or email services, their own personal journey l Avoiding Alcohol or drugs [email protected] or how they look after their mental health. Please send them to [email protected] and we will share them in the next edition of the Newsletter. Published entries will receive a hand made Blanket which has been made by the Traveller economy project Shuttleknit based in Co. Wicklow.

TRAVELLER COUNSELLING SERVICE If you feel that you need to talk to someone in confidence about issues or difficulties you might be having. Contact Traveller Counselling Service on 086-308 1476 VATICAN TRAVELLING TOWARDS INCLUSION A Call to Intercultural Dialogue in Parish Life FOUR YEAR STRATEGIC INITIATIVE 2008-2012 CONFERENCE

n March the Parish took up the invitation to present the Travelling Towards Inclusion initiative to the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants Iand Travelling People, in Rome. The meeting was called to explore the various ways the Church reaches out to and cares for people of nomadic tradition and culture across Europe. As part of that, we were asked to speak on the theme, ‘The specific pastoral care of Travellers at local parish level – from a full participation in the local church community to a respectful social integration’. The presentation was put together in collaboration with the Parish Team and our Parish Pastoral Council. Based on our own pastoral experience in the Parish, and on the specific experience so far of our pilot parish in St. Ronan’s, Deansrath, the presentation was given by Fr. Derek, and seemed to be well received. A group of about thirty, pastoral workers, religious sisters, priests, and bishops from many European countries, gathered for the very busy but also interesting three days of presentations, workshops, and discussions. We are hoping to include a feature on the meeting’s recommendations when they are published. The Traveller 13 DEANSRATH TRAVELLING TOWARDS INCLUSION A Call to Intercultural Dialogue in Parish Life FOUR YEAR STRATEGIC INITIATIVE 2008-2012 APRIL 2010 UPDATE Report on Pilot Parish Initiative – Travelling Towards Inclusion

he pilot pastoral project of the after-Mass social occasion where Parish of the Travelling People people mix and talk across cultural T(PTP), based in St Ronan’s identities. The project has introduced Deansrath, is now well into its second shrine candelabra with wax candles year. The pastoral project is part of and this is a popular addition Travelling Towards Inclusion, the appreciated by several different strategic plan of the PTP, and is cultures not just Travellers. Through seeking ways of promoting greater the project Traveller voices have been inclusion of Travellers in the life of the heard in reading and praying roles in Church . There is serious emphasis on their local Church. ongoing evaluation of the project and documenting the learning In terms of the pilot project in general involved. The project is monitored I learned that engage-explain-expect and guided by an Advisory Group, a are three necessary and separate professional consultant, the Pastoral stages in launching this inclusion Church is not the same now as when Council of the PTP, and the Parish project and in people taking the project began over a year ago. I Priest of the PTP. was grateful to a Traveller lady who shared with me that all Travellers have I was appointed to the project in always been branded for the January 2008 as a part-time Pastoral misdeeds of a few, and that now the Development Coordinator. From Through the project same process was happening to all February to June of this year the “ leaders in the Church. I thought of a project is also benefiting from the Traveller voices have liberating image of Shirley’s 17th skills of one of the Diocesan Pastoral been heard in reading century poem about sceptre and Worker trainees, Georgina Jameson, crown, having tumbled down, as part of her placement, in the Parish and praying roles in learning in the dust from “the poor of the Travelling People. The project their local church. crooked scythe and spade”. has the guidance and support of the ” Parish priest of St Ronan’s Deansrath, The rigid liturgical rites of the Church in whose parish the project is located. have often to be bent, almost out of recognition, to meet the real needs of The Parish of the Travelling People ownership of it. The temptation is to some Traveller religious occasions. has participated in the consultations explain “this is what the project is This, too, is an important backdrop to held in the Maynooth Deanery as part about” and “this is what I expect you to efforts at inclusion and highlights of the clustering of parishes proposed do” rather than first creating a some fundamental and inaccurate by the Dublin Archdiocesan relationship which engages people assumptions behind those liturgical Boundary Commission. This option personally. Having submitted to that rites. was taken because the pilot project is discipline I now find it interesting the The least explored area, at this three- located in Maynooth Deanery and way the project is explained back to quarter stage of the two year pilot representatives of the project and the me in language and gestures which initiative, is how to pass on to the Pastoral Council of the PTP have are not mine but seem to cut to the settled population, the appreciation contributed to the debate. core of the project. of Traveller culture, which I have had So what have I learned in one year of I have too come to appreciate the the chance and the time to gain. this pilot pastoral initiative?. I began value of the church building as a Margaret J Wheatley insists that this project, over a year ago, with an neutral, safe, public space for people, “conversation is the natural way that ambition to harvest the resource from the many cultures in the parish, humans think together”, and that which is the faith of the Travelling who are often subjected to racist “starting a conversation can take People for the benefit of the whole abuse when going about their courage, but conversation also gives local faith community. I am happy ordinary business such as shopping courage.” The challenge is how to start that some aspects of Traveller or on the journey to school. that conversation between Travellers hospitality and Traveller appreciation and country people. It offers exciting of God’s constant presence have been The other elements of this pilot outcomes if it can find a spark to get it shared with the wider community. initiative are the Church itself and the going. The project has created an energetic settled community. Obviously the Martin Rowan PRIMARY HEALTH CARE GRADUATION Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group

Women’s LTI Programme in Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group is a FÁS funded Programme

ecently pictured are Bridget Dinnegan, Maggie McDonnell, RSylvia Hand and Bernadette Joyce from the Blanchardstown Primary Health Care Project who recently graduated as Community Health Workers. The ceremony was held in Crosscare, Blanchardstown during Traveller Focus Week, where the women received certificates from Leonie O’Neill, Health Service Executive. Also in attendance were speakers Concepta De Brun, Michelle Donnelly, HSE, Catherine Joyce and Bríd Greenan, Co-ordinator of the Primary Health Care Project. This event was a celebration of their training over the past three years,

which included the completion of funded by the Traveller Health Unit in eight FETAC modules, and work the Health Service Executive. The placements with local service qualified workers are currently based providers. within the Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group and linking in The Primary Health Care project is with local mainstream agencies. MINCEIRS WHIDEN Minceirs Whiden (Travellers Talking) is Ireland’s Traveller-only forum – Rosaleen McDonagh writes . . .

ollowing it’s very For more information please contact successful protest in Rosaleen McDonagh (Minceirs FDublin on the 10th Whiden Development Worker): December (UN Human Rights Mobile: 086 838 5654 Day) we have now launched a Email: [email protected]. range of policy documents Website: www.minceirswhiden.org concerning health, education, youth, conflict etc. This launch took place on 21st April which also marked International Roma Day. International Roma Day commemorates the very first gathering of Roma and Travellers from all over the world in 1971 in London, a gathering designed to create a global movement to advance the rights of Roma & Travellers. IRISHIRISH TRAVELLERTRAVELLER MOVEMENTMOVEMENT LAWLAW CENTRECENTRE

The Irish Traveller Movement Law Centre opened its doors on 2nd June 2009. The Law Centre operates as an Independent Law Centre within ITM and is one of the five Independent Law Centres in Ireland.

he Law Centre has one solicitor, If the matter is not ready for litigation Siobhán Cummiskey, who comes through the courts the matter may be Tto the Law Centre from general referred to a local Traveller groups for practice and has worked with human support and assistance. rights NGOs in India and the UK. The Law Centre also provides Legal The ITM Law Centre provides a Outreach (Advice) Clinics to ITM’s five specialist legal service to Travellers in Regional Centres across the country Ireland and is the only one of its kind in order to bring legal services and in the country. The Law Centre advice to Travellers. Such clinics have recognises that there is an unmet taken place in Limerick and Carlow. Siobhán Cummiskey legal need in the Traveller community Legal Education Workshops have also and that a specialist legal service for does not deal with family law or been undertaken in Sligo, Cork and Travellers is essential to advance criminal law. Instead it deals with Dublin on issues such as Equality, Traveller rights in Ireland. The aims of cases in relation to the main aims of Ethnicity and Evictions. The Law the Law Centre are: ITM: Centre is also involved policy work including the drafting of shadow l to advance the ability of members l Accommodation, reports to the UN on Travellers and of the Traveller Community to discrimination and Travellers and access expert legal advice and l Equality and Human Rights, economic, social and cultural rights. representation, l Education, The types of cases taken by the Law l to advance recognition of l Access to Services and Centre to date include an injunction Travellers as an ethnic minority, for the return of a caravan and the l Ethnicity. l to develop the capacity of judicial review in the High Court of an Traveller organisations to respond The Law Centre is open to the referral eviction on a halting site, an Equality to legal issues facing Travellers of cases of this nature from groups Tribunal case against a local council and and individuals. Cases are selected by challenging their policy in relation to the Law Centre with the assistance of housing and a District Court case l to take a series of test cases to the Legal Working Group, which against a hotel for refusing to serve challenge laws that erode consists of public interest law members of the Travelling Traveller culture. solicitors, Travellers and local groups community. The Law Centre pursues these aims and bodies that work with Travellers. If The Irish Traveller Movement Law through strategic litigation (legal the Law Centre cannot take on a case Centre may be contacted at cases), policy work, education and it will attempt to refer it to the Legal [email protected]. legal advice clinics. The Law Centre Aid Board or another private solicitor.

The ITM Law Centre provides a specialist legal service to Travellers in Ireland and is the only one of its kind in the country The Child Protection Policy Statement of the Parish of the Travelling People

The Parish values and encourages the participation towards them. Leaders must create a safe of children and young people in all Church liturgies environment for children and young people to secure and parish activities and all that enhances their their protection and enable their full participation in spiritual, physical, emotional and social development. the life of the Church. It appreciates the generous service of the adults who facilitate such participation and respects their The Parish recognises the responsibility that each integrity. child/young person has to respect the dignity, rights and reputation of all who facilitate their participation The Parish recognises the dignity and rights of all in Church liturgies, diocesan events and parish children and young people and is committed to activities. ensuring their safety and well being in a way that promotes their human dignity, integrity and worth as The Parish has committed itself to putting best children of God. practice procedures in place to ensure the welfare and protection of children and young people together The Parish recognises that all who work with with the welfare of those who work with them. children and young people have a special duty of care

Each child/young person is a gift of God and has a right to dignity of life and bodily integrity, which must be respected, nurtured and protected.

The Parish Child Protection Representative is Mr. Colin Thomson: 087-913 7888. The Diocesan Designated Person is Mr. Andrew Fagan: 01-836 0314.

If you wish to talk to a HSE duty social worker about the safety and/or protection of children or young people: Local Duty Social Worker HSE: (01) 836 0314 (Office hours).

Outside of HSE hours, or in the case of an emergency, please contact (01) 666 8600, or your local Garda Station.

For access to counselling and support, please contact: FAOISEAMH: 1800 33 1234 (Monday & Wednesday 11am to 8pm and Friday 11am to 4pm) The Samaritans: 1850 60 90 90 (anytime). THE WELFARE OF THE CHILD IS ALWAYS PARAMOUNT The Traveller 17 Clúid Highlights Importance of Involving Travellers Directly in Developing Traveller Housing Projects

The Castlebrook development is a success, according to Cathleen McDonagh, because there was a consultative approach taken by Clúid Housing Association and South Dublin County Council . . .

athleen describes that the usual way for local authorities is to allocate properties on an individual basis as they became vacant. This can mean that CTravellers have often moved into houses reluctantly only to discover that they missed their extended family and suffered extreme isolation. As a result, they “One of the keys to the sometimes may not have shown due care to the accommodation provided, and a success of this project was breakdown in relations with the local authorities ensued. To people outside this the reasonable approach environment looking in, their worst prejudices about Travellers were confirmed, and such prejudices persisted whenever discussions took place on the adopted by the McDonagh development of housing for Travellers. This was a vicious circle. In contrast, the family. They never came to Castlebrook development has proven to be a win-win situation for all involved and could serve as a model for all local authorities in their approach to meeting Traveller us with an unrealistic wish- housing needs. list or a set of demands; Changes that were made to the Castlebrook development at the request of the rather, they approached us McDonagh family included eliminating boundary walls at the front of each house to give more of a community feel; making the interior space of each house more with practical suggestions open-plan, and providing greater natural light by increasing the size of the that would enhance the windows to acknowledge the outdoor and open-space nature of the family’s development overall by heritage. Simon Brooke, Chairperson of Clúid, said the changes requested by the McDonaghs were small and logical ones that incurred no additional costs during embracing elements of the project’s development. Traveller culture. There was “Overall, it has taken nine long years to develop Castlebrook, so the patience and give and take in this process tenacity of the McDonagh family must be commended. They have now been living in Castlebrook for over 12 months, and the success of the project is plain for all to at all times, and see.” compromises had to be “The Castlebrook project shows how important and effective it is to directly involve made, but ultimately it has Traveller families in the planning and development of Traveller housing schemes,” been a huge success.” said Simon Brooke. “Clúid believes that good housing provides the platform for social progress. The approach we took to this project should serve as a model for Simon Brooke, Clúid Traveller housing projects throughout Ireland and, over the coming months, we will be working to promote this model to local authorities nationwide.”

“My family had input into the location, design and development of our houses. We were able to suggest small changes that meant the development became reflective of our Traveller culture. Without a shadow of a doubt, I believe this approach is something that should be replicated for all Traveller housing projects throughout Ireland.” Cathleen McDonagh TRAVELLER ARTS NEWS The Trailer of Worlds Apart Same Difference

Bridget Dinnigan When a young Traveller woman is forced to flee her home because of domestic violence, she flees to England and finds love in the arms of an African man. Their union exposes the similarities and the difference in their strong cultural World Première in June backgrounds. Can Miley and Tiga unite in the face of tragedy? Women’s LTI Programme in Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group is a FÁS funded Programme. Traveller Wagon Wheel Theatre Presents A New Play

Worlds Apart Same Difference

Tiny James as Tiga Michael Collins as Miley

ollowing the great success of public readings during Traveller Focus Week 2008 and 2009, a full production of Fthe new play 'The Trailer of Bridget Dinnigan', featuring 11 women from Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group, will take place from the 16th to the 19th of June in Written By Michael Collins & Directed by Mick Rafferty The Project Arts Centre, Dublin. The production is funded through the Arts Participation award from the Arts Council of Venue: Project Arts Centre 39 East Essex St Temple Bar Dublin 2 Ireland and will be produced in association with The Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group (BTDG) and Date/Time: 8pm on the 24th to May 29th 2010

The Irish Traveller Movement (ITM). Tickets: €15 & €12 concession, ask for group rates

Set on a present day halting site 'The Trailer of Bridget Contact: Booking: 01 8819 613/ www.projectartscentre.ie Traveller Wagon Wheel Dinnigan' follows matriarch Bridget and her family in the Theatre period after her husband's death. Fiercely protective Bridget For further information contact; [email protected] will stop at nothing to ensure that her family's reputation Written by Michael Collins remains intact. Tensions begin to rise following the Tiga Played by Tiny James announcement that her eldest daughter is to get married Miley Played by Michael Collins uncovering family secrets and leading to tragic Directed by Mick Rafferty consequences. Assistant Director Patricia McCarthy Lights & Sound James Reilly This contemporary adaptation of the Spanish classic The Technical Assistance Christine Collins House of Bernarda Alba, by Federico García Lorca, is the result Special Appearance Michael Collins Jnr. of two years of research and collaboration between Director and writer Dylan Tighe, Traveller activist Catherine Joyce Funded by the Arts Council Supported by Community Technical Aid & and eleven women from the Blanchardstown Traveller the Project Arts Centre Development Group. Written by Catherine Joyce and Dylan Tighe and Directed by Michael Collins Dylan Tighe, the play will be performed by the following Michael played Johnny Connors in RTÉ’s Glenroe for over 10 years women: Bridget Collins, Bridgid Collins, Christine Collins, and has been in numerous films including Trojan Eddie and Man Imelda Collins, Missy Ann Collins, Winnie Collins, Louise about Dog. Michael has written his own play “It’s a cultural thing or is it” which he has spent the past two years performing in venues Connors, Bridget Dinnigan, Catherine Kerrigan, Ann Marie in Ireland, UK and New York. Michael has appeared in the films McDonnell. Trojan Eddie, Strength and Honour, Man about Dog, , and Bodies of the Bog. 16th - 19th of June 2010 at 8pm. Project Arts Centre, East Essex Street, Dublin 2. For more information and tickets Michael has been developing the idea of establishing a Traveller Theatre Company which would work with Travellers and other please contact The Project Arts Centre – (01) 8819613/ socially excluded and ethnic minority groups to allow them to tell www.project.ie, or The Irish Traveller Movement on their stories and issues in an artistic way. This company is called (01) 6796577 Traveller Wagon Wheel Theatre Company. F.C. TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB UPDATE

ello again from F. C. Town. At the Htime of writing we are involved in the semi- final of the Harding Cup where we meet B.F.C. of Ballyfermot who are a decent side, so it should be a hotly contested affair. We are currently top of Division 1 Sunday with two games to play, if we win them we will be crowned champions, fingers crossed. So hopefully by the next time you hear from me we will be League and Cup Champions, wouldn’t that be nice. Michael McDonnell, F.C. Town Manager

“Last week’s AFL Amateur Cup game between FC TOWN FC F.C. Town and Wyteleaf was an absolute STOP PRESS!! cracker. Neither team deserved to lose but in WOULD YOU LIKE TO the end Town were defeated by the odd goal in We are happy to report seven. Town lost it because they were reduced news that FC Town have SPONSOR F.C. TOWN? to 10 men with 12 minutes remaining in the first been confirmed as half. Every neutral that attended the game in Champions of the Amateur The cost of the league each year is very Mellows Park will agree with me on that point. I League Sunday Division have to say though that it was completely out One for 2009-2010. The expensive. If you would like to make a of character for F.C.Town. I have attended many Club has also reached the contribution to F. C. Town it would be of their games now and have found them to be Final of the Harding Cup, scheduled to be played very much appreciated. both sporting and skilful. They will win many against Clonshaugh FC on more trophies in this league. I would have Friday 14th May at 6:30pm in fancied them to go all the way had they the Oscar Traynor Complex, You can contact their manager emerged victorious on Sunday last.” Coolock. Congratulations, Michael McDonnell through the and Best Wishes to all – both reports from Evening Herald Reporter concerned! Further details in Parish Office on 01 8388874 the next edition.. OverHAITI €1,600 raisedFUNDRAISER for survivors of earthquake

he community health workers from Ballymun Primary Health Care project decided to try and organise a Tfundraiser for the survivors of the Haiti earthquake. At the beginning we threw around ideas but finally settled on a table quiz and cake sale. Once the idea started to take shape there was a lot of organising to do as we only had a short amount of time. We invited other Primary Health Care Projects, Traveller organisations and community organisations in Ballymun to the table quiz. We also approached the local shops, the Axis, chemists, beauty salon and supermarkets for spot prizes for the raffle. They were all very generous and gave us a lot of prizes including vouchers, tickets for a play and gift baskets. We held the table quiz in the Community Centre in St. Margarets site. There was a great turn out on the day and the small hours to get cakes ready for the sale. Superquinn all of the tables came up with very creative names for their donated a huge amount of bread and we had 2 tables full teams. There were questions to test people’s knowledge of delicious homemade cakes and bread for sale on the on sport, music, famous Travellers, general knowledge and day. The cake sale coincided with the Ballymun Book television to name a few. Spirits were high on the day and Exchange so there were a lot of people around on the day. everyone seemed to really enjoy it. We even took orders for cakes over the phone and Near FM radio sent a reporter to cover the table quiz. everything was sold out by 1 o’clock. She interviewed staff, trainees and residents from We set up a website for people to donate money if they St. Margarets. The interviews were played on Near FM could not make it to the events and the Community that weekend. Health Workers made a collection on the site. In total we The overall winners were the FC Town Supporters Club raised €1,690. We just want to thank everyone who from the Parish Office but they were followed a close supported the cause by turning up on the day and also second by the Super Sleuths from Fingal Travellers. those who donated money but were unable to attend. We held the cake sale the next day in the Civic Centre in The money raised was sent on to Oxfam which was Ballymun. The staff from St. Margarets were baking until already established in Haiti for a number of years. The Traveller 21 Traveller Singer and Songs

On 6th March Catherine and Michael Collins hosted the recording of Traveller singer and songs in their home. These recordings are of Travellers and settled people singing Traveller songs. Here are some photos we took for those of you who could not be with us on the day. Please stay tuned to the parish newsletter for a broadcast date. Catherine & Michael 22 The Traveller

May these few words of sympathy help ease the grief you bear, and may it comfort you to know, that others really care.

Recently Deceased December 2009 17th Nan McDonagh Cara Park If we have missed out 29th Kathleen McDonagh Clondalkin on any 30th Biddy McDonagh Mullingar Recently Deceased, or January 2010 7th John Paul Joyce Coolock First Year Anniversaries 8th Baby Andrew Charles Collins Cara Park please forward them to us and 14th John McDonagh Sandyford 23rd Baby Stephen Stokes Carrick-On-Shannon we will add them in our next 26th Mary McCann Blackrock issue. Also if you would like to 28th ‘Big’Tom Maughan Ballymun send us a photo of your loved February 2010 one and a poem, we will try to 17th Winnie Cawley Tallaght include it in our First Year 17th Anne Harty Wicklow 22nd Martin O’ Donnell Finglas Anniversary section. 30th Baby Mary Collins Navan March 2010 We pray for all those 18th Lizzie Cawley Tallaght recently deceased. April 2010 May they rest in peace. 2nd Francie Maughan Glasthule Amen 5th Baby David Connors Wexford 30th Jimmy Connors Maynooth

First Year Anniversary December 2009 21st Christine Joyce Cavan 26th Merrissa Joyce Dundalk January 2010 3rd Michael (Rocky) O’Rourke Priorswood 10th Cassy Marie Connors Priorswood 13th Mary Collins Avila Park 14th David McDonagh Swords February 2010 St. Anthony’s Prayer 11th Arthur O’Reilly Galway St. Anthony, help me find ways to Tom O’Brien Greystones honour God’s blessings by March 2010 showing my love for all of God’s 9th Martin Joyce Ringsend creatures. Share your strength 11th Michael Connors Kildare 11th Gerry Connors Kildare that I may cope with the trials 14th Ellen Lawrence Maynooth and troubles of daily life. 14th Martin Joyce Finglas You, through whose voice the 16th James McDonagh Drogheda Word of God was preached, 16th Tony McDonagh Drogheda 16th Martin McDonagh Drogheda intercede for my need (mention 19th Winnie Alisha McDonagh Finglas your special request here). 26th Michael Maughan Tallaght Powerful Patron, be with me April 2010 always and teach me to reach 2nd Baby Thomas Anthony Stokes Deansrath out in love and support to 14th Tom Nyhan (Sr. May’s brother) Clonakilty others. 14th Annette Halpin Tallaght 23rd Joan Howard Manchester Amen. The Traveller 23

In memory of Ellen Lawrence Died 14th March 2009

A Young Traveller Woman Embedded in culture are family and faith Mixed together no one can break My history is as old as this island of mine And will continue to be so on till the end of time But no matter the background we are still all the same Living on earth till God calls our name. They say it’s not what you take with you When it’s your time to depart But what you leave behind Embedded in to everyone’s heart. I’m a young Traveller woman, Irish and proud To everyone here I’ll say it out loud Never be ashamed to show off who you are Always try to aim higher and aim to go far. •

Extract taken from one of Ellen’s Poems.

In memory of Annette Halpin Died 14th April 2009

Friend to the Traveller Community

Gracious Lady Listening heart Led by the Spirit To all life imparts Stranger to no one Open to all Medjugorje hills Blessed by her song.

Written by Annette’s friends in St. Martin’s Parish, Tallaght 24 The Traveller

REMEMBERING ANNETTE n the 27th March the tribute invited me to come to meet the Leixleip concert Remembering Annette Traveller Women’s Group she was then Otook place in the Civic Theatre, working with. In the context of that Tallaght. Annette Halpin was well work it was particularly special that known to many in the Traveller members of the Traveller Parish Choir, community, especially for her social formed especially for the event were a inclusion & development work with part of the tribute to Annette, and also Traveller women’s groups in areas such took the lead in performing her song as Tallaght and Leixleip. After a brave ‘Everyone’. battle with cancer Annette’s journey in this world came to an end on 14th April I know that Annette was greatly 2009. saddened at tragic death of one of the young women in the Leixleip group, At the request of her husband, Andy Ellen Lawrence, just shortly before her and the family I was very privileged to own death. Around this time of their celebrate Annette’s Funeral Mass. Later First Anniversaries, we remember them on, at the time of her Month’s Mind both in the old prayer: ‘Light of Heaven Mass, in speaking with Andy about to them, may they rest in peace’. Annette I heard about their musical Fr. Derek setting of the life of Saint Patrick. So when Andy contacted me some months ago to take the part of narrator, I was very happy to agree. I was glad to be associated with Annette & Andy’s creative work, glad to have a part in highlighting the very relevant story of Saint Patrick particularly in this the Year of Evangelisation, and also glad as parish priest in the Parish of the Travelling People to have been able to build on the close relationship Annette had with Travellers in her work and through her music. Knowing Annette from my time in St. Martin’s Parish, and as a fellow pilgrim in Medjugorje, soon after my arrival in the Parish of the Travelling People, Annette PARISH NEWS TRAVELLER PARISH CHOIR The recently formed Traveller Parish Choir sang in public for the first time at social justice themed Prayer Service in the chapel of Holy Cross College, Clonliffe, Dublin on Monday, 22nd March 2010.

Later that week the Choir were part of the Remembering Annette tribute concert in the Civic Theatre, Tallaght. Their encore

performance of Annette’s song ‘Everyone’ received a warm and spontaneous standing ovation from the large audience.

The plan and the hope now is to slowly but surely build on the choir’s initial success. Hopefully a healthy mix of faith, talent and commitment will gradually produce a great musical resource for Parish Masses, Weddings, Funerals, Pilgrimages, Easter and Christmas ceremonies, and other Parish and Diocesan faith gatherings.

Singers/musicians who are interested in joining, or just finding out more, please contact the Parish Office at 01-838 8874. Hello from Edel Hi everybody! My name is Edel Dolan, I live in was to bring a group a women together to give Eastwall in city centre of Dublin. I am a second them a space where they could come together year Student in NUI Maynooth studying youth and chat with refreshments and relaxation. and community work. I have the privilege of Petra and myself also provided some doing my work experience in the Parish of relaxing treatments on the day.The the Travelling People alongside Petra Daly morning was a great success and everyone who co-ordinates the Crosscare’s National who attended enjoyed themselves. Traveller Suicide Awareness Project. My placement in 12 weeks and I have already I’m enjoying my time immensely working had the opportunity to visit many Traveller within the Travelling community and have projects in Dublin, Sligo and Cork. been made feel really welcome by everybody I have had the pleasure to work with. My The main pieces of work are working with the placement is due to finish in the next couple of primary health care workers in St Margaret’s in weeks, so I would like to take this opportunity to Ballymun, Blanchardstown, Sligo and Cork on a regular basis, thank everyone I have worked with especially Petra and around the issues of mental health and suicide awareness. I everyone in the Parish of the Travelling People for supporting have also had the opportunity of organising a relaxing me on my placement over the 12 weeks. morning event to celebrate International Women’s Day 2010, which was held in the Parish of the Travelling People.The aim Edel Dolan Youth Zone

Step 7 Development of Curriculum Work Step 8 Going beyond the School’s Walls: Yellow Flag Award Engaging with the Community Step 9 Production of a Diversity Code The Yellow Flag Programme is unique in that it will promote a whole school approach in supporting interculturalism on both a practical and theoretical level. Sr. Liz, Deputy Principal, and who is part of the co-ordination committee with teacher Ashling Griffin says, “I am delighted that St. Dominic’s has been recognized as an inclusive school which was also noted in their Whole School Evaluation Report.” We also launched our diversity badge on 14th April. Each student received a badge with the school crest and the Yellow Flag symbol which they are asked to wear with pride to show all that we are a school who continue on the process of making our school an inclusive school community where all are given the opportunity to learn.” he Minister for Social and Family Schools in the country to receive a Affairs, Mary Hanafin T.D., joined Yellow Flag in 2009 T in a celebration of Diversity and the Awarding of the Yellow Flag with It is a pilot intercultural education the staff, students and friends of project which is co-ordinated by The St. Dominic’s Secondary School, Irish Traveller Movement The nine steps Ballyfermot on 14th April 2010. The will were undertaken by the school school was one of two secondary Step 1 Intercultural and Anti-Racism schools to be awarded a Yellow Flag Training for Staff and during 2009 which acknowledges their Management commitment to social inclusion. Step 2 Involvement of local Community What is the Yellow Flag? Groups The Yellow Flag is a recognition that a Step 3 Establishment of the Diversity school has not only got policies of Social Committee (including parents, Inclusion but take practical steps to pupils, teachers and other staff) ensure that all students, parents and staff are valued and that diversity is Step 4 Intercultural Review celebrated and respected in the day to Step 5 Action Plan for a Diverse School day activities of the school community. St. Dominic’s is one of two Secondary Step 6 Monitoring and Evaluation Youth Zone

Principal Mary Daly thanked “the sponsors, the Parish of the Travelling People / Ballyfermot Partnership and the Dominican Sisters who have made the production of the badges and our celebration a possibility. Also thanks to Kathy Bradley, Traveller Visiting Teacher, Helen Burke (DCC), all the staff, students and parents who make up the Diversity Committee for their commitment to making our school an inclusive school on a daily basis”. For further details contact: Sr. Liz 086-3512865 Liz Smyth OP, Deputy Principal, St. Dominic’s Secondary School, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10.

Congratulations to Michael Collins (left), Most Improved Player of the Year 2009 and Thomas Collins, Player of the Year 2009, Erin’s Isle GAA Club, Finglas.

T.J. McDonald & Jamie O’Brien representing St. Joseph’s, Milltown in the National Stadium, Dublin

FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS 2010

CELEBRATING FIRST HOLY COMMUNIONS, ST. RONAN’S, DEANSRATH RECENT EVENTS

The Traveller Parish Newsletter is published by The Parish of the Travelling People, St. Laurence House, 6 New Cabra Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7. Tel: (01) 838 8874 Fax: (01) 838 8901 Email: ì[email protected] Website: www.ptrav.ie