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12/03/2012
Brian Hayes Launches Major Volunteering Scheme
The Office of Public Work has today launched a nationwide advertising campaign seeking expressions of interest from local heritage/community groups who may be interested in becoming a partner.
Brian Hayes TD said: "For whatever reason Ireland has never involved voluntary effort in the presentation of our heritage. Unlike many European countries where volunteers are an essential part of heritage tourism, we have been slow to formalise the involvement of community groups in our national heritage. This will change under my time as Minister."
The Minister went on to say "the potential of volunteering and Irish heritage has never been organised at a national level. As the lead agency with the responsibility in preserving and presenting our heritage, we need the help of local community and heritage groups."
The Minister continued: "Building on the success of the free day initiative launched by the OPW last year, I want by this summer to have at least 25 partnerships in place between the OPW and various organisations. Since coming into office I have been impressed by the enormous interest that exists locally in the heritage sites that are under the control of the OPW.
"I am constantly met by groups who want greater opening times, more local involvement or who have plans to develop tourism locally by using our national monuments and national properties. We need to work with these groups. A new partnership needs to be formed between the OPW and local volunteering effort. There are of course challenges for the OPW in this but I’m convinced that this organisation has the expertise and know how required."
(GK)
Brian Hayes TD said: "For whatever reason Ireland has never involved voluntary effort in the presentation of our heritage. Unlike many European countries where volunteers are an essential part of heritage tourism, we have been slow to formalise the involvement of community groups in our national heritage. This will change under my time as Minister."
The Minister went on to say "the potential of volunteering and Irish heritage has never been organised at a national level. As the lead agency with the responsibility in preserving and presenting our heritage, we need the help of local community and heritage groups."
The Minister continued: "Building on the success of the free day initiative launched by the OPW last year, I want by this summer to have at least 25 partnerships in place between the OPW and various organisations. Since coming into office I have been impressed by the enormous interest that exists locally in the heritage sites that are under the control of the OPW.
"I am constantly met by groups who want greater opening times, more local involvement or who have plans to develop tourism locally by using our national monuments and national properties. We need to work with these groups. A new partnership needs to be formed between the OPW and local volunteering effort. There are of course challenges for the OPW in this but I’m convinced that this organisation has the expertise and know how required."
(GK)
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29 September 2011
Construction Builds A Future For Traditional Skills
A new pilot scheme to help address skills shortages in the repair and maintenance of traditional buildings has been launched at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh. This included demonstration of traditional building skills by a number of local craftspeople, showing how these skills have survived and are relevant today.
Construction Builds A Future For Traditional Skills
A new pilot scheme to help address skills shortages in the repair and maintenance of traditional buildings has been launched at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh. This included demonstration of traditional building skills by a number of local craftspeople, showing how these skills have survived and are relevant today.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
