Style and music were the order of the day at a community event organised by Mullingar E.Y.E. (Encouraging Youth Empowerment) Garda Youth Diversion Programme in Columb Barracks last Saturday.
The 1950s-style get-together which was entitled ‘Fairy tale of New York’ provided guests with great entertainment with performances by Music Generation Music Jammers, the Glee Club and Mullingar EYE dance group State Property.
Speaking to Topic, Mullingar EYE Mullingar Co-Ordinator Joan O’ Connor said the day was about celebrating with the community. “Music Generation is on throughout the year so today they showcase their talents and the young people from Mullingar EYE event produced the day. They did all the advertising posters and decorating and the fundraising to pay for it because it’s a completely free event. They have Santa and they fundraised to buy little selection boxes for everyone. And we have Frankie Byrne and Justin Ryan working throughout the event who are just amazing as always. The young people who are doing the Culinary Skills here are doing a New York style deli so they’re doing Sloppy Joes, Hotdogs and Hamburgers. It’s about giving something back to the community because they are so good and kind.”
Margaret Broome, Development Officer Music Generation Offaly/Westmeath said the Christmas break provided an opportunity for anyone who is interested in becoming involved with the project to sign up. “We have four musicians who work here every Wednesday so they put together a performance with their different groups for today. We’ll be starting up again in January which gives people the opportunity to join up. There’s information on the Midlands Youth website about how to sign up.”
While it was a day of celebration, it was also a day for goodbyes with Youth Worker, Joe McCormack leaving the project after 15 years. In her address Regional Director of Youth Work Irelands Midlands, Geraldine Lacey praised Joe for his many years of service. “It’s been a pleasure to work with Joe. He’s so steadfast and his calming presence was just great. I know he’ll be sorely missed by everyone, everyday. We wish you ever good wish for your future and don’t ever be a stranger.”
Ms O’Connor was also full of praise for her former colleague. “I founded the EYE project and Joe was the first person to work with me. I’m heartbroken. The young people are heartbroken and they adore him. He’s wise, he’s kind and he’s funny and he’s knows how to get them out of trouble if they need to be. He’s everything and he’s been amazing.”
Mr. McCormack said the project was about giving the 80 people who are involved in different ways a voice. “The last 15 years for me has been a learning curve because you have to listen. The young people have a voice and they are the important people.”
He also took the opportunity to commend Ms. O’Connor on her work throughout they years. “I cannot say enough about this woman. She is so good and kind and has a heart that is too big for her body and I love her to bits. I will never ever forget her and what she is has done for me. I love our project.” he concluded.
