Editorial September 2008

Cullairbaun Community House

‘This Community House, established through the partnership of Galway County Council and Athenry Area Development Co., is an excellent example of best practice in providing for the practical needs of residents of local authority estates by utilising a centre within the estate’, said Minister Eamon O Cuiv when he officially opened the CH on Thursday, 18th of September in the presence of Cllr. Peter Feeney, County Mayor, Mr. Micheal Kitt, Minister of State at the Dept. of the Environment, Mr. Frank Gilmore, Galway Co. Co., a large number of residents and representatives of various community organisations. The CH, which provides family orientated programmes, is managed by Athenry ADC and the dedicated and enthusiastic CH manager, Catheryn O’Flaherty, expressed her gratitude to fund providers, both local and national, community supporters, and especially the parents and children who use and care for the premises.

Well done Athenry ADC for doing this quiet, unobtrusive and community building work.

Brother Gerald Gannon RIP

In a world where greed predominates, the generosity of Brother Gerald’s life shines as an example of how, with God’s grace and help, humans can make life wonderful and better for the poor of the planet.

Canon Tony King’s moving tribute to Brother Gerald is an inspiring read about a great and caring man from Newcastle.

Raining Plans in Athenry

When the Athenry Town Realm Plan is published next year, it will be the third County Council plan for the town in four years, the Athenry Town Plan 2005 and the Athenry Town Walls CMP being the other two.

In relation to the 2005 Plan, moving from print to action has been pitifully slow as regards implementation of the many community enhancement projects within the paln. Can 2009 be the year when people will see some action on these projects, many of which would transform and greatly improve the community life for families?

Athenry Environmental Network (ANV)

From the large attendance at the Network’s workshops on the 20th/21st of September, it’s clear that the Athenry public are becoming more aware of the importance of the unique environments of the town and parish. AVN chairperson, Patrick

Creed and his hard-working committee are doing wonderful work in partnership with the Galway Co. Co. and other community groups by not only providing information but, more importantly, through the implementation of on-the-ground projects that enrich the quality of our environmental community life.

Time-our greatest gift to others

Congratulations are due to St. Mary’s GAA club for the successful completion of the second Sean McGovem School of Hurling, sponsored by Joyces 365. Special thanks is extended to the twenty past players, current senior club players and club coaches who gave so generously of their time over the four-week programme.