Galway Asylum Seekers' Community Newsletter

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2011-01-26T22:04:00.001Z

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND BEST WISHES TO ALL RESIDENTS

Best of luck to Suzanne Mckane from GRSG who is gone to Ethiopia for one month to volunteer. We will miss you Suzzane while you are gone.

In the meantime the Eglinton Parent & Toddler Group will resume when Suzzane returns

DANCING CLASSES

2011-01-26T21:16:00.003Z

There are free spaces available for asylum seekers in dance classes. The poster with further details can be found in reception.

SEWING CLASSES

2011-01-26T21:14:00.002Z

Funding has been approved for sewing classes. Mary McCarthy will organize classes ASAP. Please look in reception for further information.

FOREST CLEAN UP

2011-01-26T20:58:00.008Z

Brendan Smith is organizing for the forest clean up group to meet up again. The initiative is keeping Galway's forest & Parks clean (GLAN): All residents are welcome to attend a public meeting on Wednesday, 26th January 2011 at 7.30 in the Menlo Park Hotel to arrange further activities.

COMPUTER CLASSES

2011-01-26T20:54:00.007Z

Brendan Smith will be coming back to the hotel in February 2010 to teach computer classes. An open forum evening will be organized for all residents to come and meet Brendan to sign up for the classes. Please look at reception for upcoming details

ARTS AND CRAFTS CLASSES

2011-01-26T20:50:00.005Z

Adults' Art and Crafts classes are help on Tuesdays from 3 Pm - 5 pm in room 27 in the hotel. All are welcome.

CONGRATULATIONS

2011-01-26T20:48:00.004Z

Congratulations to Mofe, Stephanie and Evans who will be moving out to private rented accommodation next week. We wish them all the best.

2010-05-22T09:28:00.004+01:00

SEWING CLASSES:

XXXSewing Classes with Mary McCarthy resumed on Thursday, 20th May 2010. Classes will be held on Thrusday and Friday mornings, from 10.30am - 12.00pm for begginers. There will be open session of all residents on Thursday and Friday afternoons from 1.00pm - 2.00pmXXX

~~~Drumming Classes will be held this week on Thursday 25th May 2010 from 4.30pm for children and from 5.15pm for adults. All residents are welcome to attend.~~~

We have had some new residents come to the Hotel so we would like to give them a VERY BIG WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A big THANK YOU to Brendan Smith and all the residents who attended the beach clean-up last weekend.

For those residents interested in beach or forest clean-ups, please contact Carole at reception.

The Eglinton Parent and Toddler Group is being held every Tuesday morning from 10am - 12pm. All residents with toddler are welcome as are residents who wish to volunteer to help out.

DEATH ANNOUNCEMENT

2010-05-21T22:47:00.005+01:00

Calamity befell the Eglinton Hotel last week when one of the Residents passed away suddenly. Our beloved sister, Oluwafenmi Johnson went to be with the Lord on the 13th May, 2010. She was one of the most humble ladies on the premises. She will be sadly missed.

GALWAY AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL AND LAUNCH PARTY

2010-05-10T18:05:00.006+01:00

HI ALL, THIS IS A MESSAGE FROM THE ONE WORLD CENTRE INVITING ALL RESIDENTS TO THE FOLLOWING FILM FESTIVAL. ALL WELCOME

Hi all,

I would like to invite you all to the launch of Galway's Third African Film Festival on Thursday, May 13th at 5.30pm in the Town Hall Theatre, Galway.

This year's festival includes a horror movie from Nigeria, Animation from Zimbabwe and of course a film about soccer from Chad, as well as many others. It will take place on May 24-25th in the Town Hall Theatre and you are also very welcome to attend any of the screenings. The full programme will be available in early May and details may also be obtained at http://www.galwayafricanfilmfestival.com/

The Festival will be launched by Mr. Adedotun Adekeye, a well known Galway Actor and Script Writer originally from Nigeria.

The Festival is the result of a joint project between the Galway One World Centre, Galway Film society and the Huston School of Film and Digital Media.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Trish Buddin
Administrator
Galway One World Centre
Bridge Mills
Dominic Street
Galway
091530590

COMPUTER CLASSES

2010-04-10T11:07:00.002+01:00

Computer classes will be resuming soon. Please sign up with carole at reception.

FOOTBALL TRAINING

2010-04-10T11:04:00.015+01:00

FOOTBALL TRAINING

Football training course available for 9 - 12 year old children every Wednesday for six weeks at 3.30 pm. Please sign your child up if interested with Carole at the reception.

DRUMMING

2010-04-10T11:02:00.002+01:00

Drumming with Benjamin resumes on Friday 16th April 2010 at the Church area.

All residents are welcome.

AFRICA DAY GALWAY EVENTS

2010-04-02T15:43:00.002+01:00

Spirit of AFRICA DAY SCHOOLS SOCCER CUP, will be taking place at MERVUE UNITED FC pitch on FRIDAY 21 MAY FROM 10am until 2pm.

Prizes available for winners, players and schools best jersey design!

Organisers are now in the process of inviting boys and girl’s school players aged 8 -9 to take part and represent an African nation in the series of games and ultimate final.

From 10 May, participating schools will also receive Free Art workshops, Players jerseys and Educational Cultural guest visits from members of the African Community. A promotional photoshoot opportunity is also planned for Saturday 1 May in Eyre Square.
The evening Music concert event will take place at the Quays bar Galway on Africa day Tuesday 25 may featuring the launch of TOLUKINGS "Story Story" CD, from Galway's latest African calypso group, Line up to be announced also presents Young rhythm poets Lucky and friends, a Fashion Show and Cultural Dance Group.
All events are FREE admission, and aim to celebrate the cultural diversity of the African continent.
This will be the third AFRICA DAY GALWAY EVENT organized by Spirit of Voice productions. Previous live music outdoor concerts, fashion shows and talent competitions have been held in Eyre Square , NUIG Bar, Lisbrook house and on the World Volvo Ocean Race Stage Galway last year.
For further information, contact Gerry Mulkerrins
AFRICA DAY GALWAY EVENTS
Spirit of Voice Productions
Tel 086 336 7129
email : eqfx@eircom.net
www.spiritofvoice.com

CONGRATULATION

2010-03-27T20:09:00.001Z

Congratulations to David Givich on winning gold medals for playing basketball for his school teams (Scoil Einde) and for the Barna teams. Wishing him the very best of luck in the future.

MOTHER & TODDLER GROUP

2010-03-27T20:03:00.002Z

The mother and toddler group continue to meet every Tuesday, from 10am - 12pm. All residents are welcome to attend. In the past couple of weeks the group has been knitting and much fun has been had by all.

WELOCME BACK

2010-03-27T20:01:00.001Z

We would like to welcome back Caoimhin, our great volunteer who is back in the hotel to open up the computer room every saturday morning from 10 am,

2010-03-27T19:58:00.003Z

Mary McCarthy presented Certificates to residents who completed the last sewing course on Thursday, 25th March 2010. If there are any residents who are due to receive a certificate and did not, please contact Carole at the reception. Congratulations to all.

CONGATULATIONS

2010-03-27T19:54:00.007Z

Congratulations to Nnamdi, Chinenye and family who are celebrating the dedication of their daughter, Felicity on the 28th March at the TREM church on the Tuam Road from 11 am. If any residents require transport, please contact Nnamdi.

DRUMMING

2010-03-27T19:53:00.001Z

Drumming classes resume in the Eglinton Hotel from 1st April 2010 from 5 pm. All residents are welcome

TREE PLANITING

2010-03-27T19:48:00.002Z

There will be a tree planting ceremony and forest clean up in Terryland Forest Park from 12pm Sunday 28th March 2010. The park is located on the Dyke Road, by the Black Box Theatre, the entrance is at the side of Curry's. This project is being led by the forever inspirational Mr Brendan Smith and attendance will be appreciated. If residents need transport please inform Carole at reception.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

2010-03-10T10:50:00.003Z

If resdients wish to submit information such as Church timetable, upcoming events, etc, on this website, please inform Margaret Lagara in Room 201 or Miriam Omoro in Room 305

VOLUNTEER

2010-03-10T10:45:00.003Z

There is a new volunteer, Caoimhin to open the computer room on Saturday mornings from 10am. All residents are welcome.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATIONS

2010-03-10T10:40:00.004Z

Georgeba is currently organising a group of residents to take part in the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Please contact her for more information.

2010-03-10T10:37:00.004Z

There was a large turnout for the AkiDwa event in The Menlo Park Hotel last week regarding FGM. For further info and to see photo's please log onto AkiDwa's faceBook Page.

CONGRATULATIONS

2010-03-10T10:05:00.005Z

Congratulations to Djamallah on the birth of her daughter, Jesline. Also to Funmi on the birth of her twins, Biran and Britney. Also to Nadine and Bosoli on the birth of their daughter Believe

WITNESS GROUP MEETINGS

2010-02-22T12:11:00.002Z

The witness group meetings continue every other weekend. A notice will be put out to notify residents of the next date of meeting and venue. All residents are welcome to attend.

WELCOME

2010-02-22T12:06:00.002Z

Welcome to the new Chef, Eoin and a fond farewell to Kai, who has been working in the hotel for the past six years.

ZEBRAWORLD

2010-02-22T12:03:00.003Z

A big thanks to the volunteers from Zebraworld who held a DVD night on Tuesday night for the residents. The DVD chosen was High School Musical.

DRUMMING CLASS

2010-02-22T11:55:00.003Z

Benjamin the drumming class teacher will be away for two weeks. When he comes back a notice for classes will be posted at the reception.

CONGRATULATIONS

2010-02-22T11:48:00.003Z

Congratulations fo Funmi on the birth of twins, a beautiful baby boy and baby girl.

Congratulations also to Djamallah on the birth of a beautiful baby girl named Gesline.

MOTHERS AND TODDLER GROUP

2010-02-22T11:37:00.004Z

The mother and toddler group has been very successful. It runs on Tuesdays in the church area of the hotel from 10am - 12 pm and all residents are welcome to attend from mothers with toddlers to volunteers. Last Tuesday the group went to the playground beside the Aquarium and much fun was had by all.

2010-02-12T19:59:00.001Z

MERLIN WOODS CLEAN UP

2010-01-29T18:19:00.003Z

On January 24th 2010, a group of The Eglinton Residents and Local Community participated in a clean up at the Merlin Woods. It was a very exciting experience which included people from all walks of life, men, women and children alike.
Each month, a different area of the city is cleaned. We will inform the residents of the next clean up. Hopefully more residents will join us. See you there.
Photograph shows Miriam, Sylvia and Margaret with Dr. Sarah Knight from Galway University and Senator (Irish parliament) Niall O'Brolchain

New Photographs from the Fashion Show 2009

2010-01-29T18:01:00.004Z

The African Fashion Show took place on the 5th December 2009 at the Community Centre in Roscam. Ladies of the Eglinton Hotel showed off the expertise of Alice Fashion Designs of all colours and designs which highlighted the night.
Click here to see many photographs from this most colourful occassion

CONGRATULATIONS!

2010-01-16T11:04:00.003Z

Congrats to Vjollca on getting her status

DRUMMING CLASSES!

2010-01-16T10:51:00.002Z

Drumming classes starts on Friday 12th February 2010 at 5.00 pm.
If anyone is interested please sign up at the reception

CHILDREN'S & ADULT' S CHRISTMAS PARTIES

2010-01-16T10:46:00.009Z

Christmas party for the children was a huge success. A big thank you to Santa and all the helpers including Suzanna, Maieve, Verenice, Zebraworld volunteers and residents

Adults Christmas party - Very good night. A big thank you to Fiona, Maanager and staff at the Bal Pub, Salthill. Also thanks to the Management and Staff of the Eglinton Hotel and the Great Western Hostels.

Committee Members: Alice, Anne, Ogechi, Santos, Ali, Ayuu, Alan, DJ Filipe.
For more pictures of the christmas party click here

GOODBYE TO NOEMI

2010-01-16T10:43:00.004Z

Truly treasured and will be missed by residents and staff alike.

Best of luck in your new adventures.

Cycling Through the Rural Landscapes of Galway City

2009-09-01T22:04:00.005+01:00

As part of Galway city's contribution to Ireland's Heritage Week, 'Friend of the Eglinton' Brendan Smith organised on Sunday last an educational cycle journey through some of the most interesting historical and scenic localities on the east side of the city.In spite of the atrocious stormy weather, participating cyclists enjoyed a trip through an alternative Galway city, one that moved over small country roads, past ruined castles, rocky landscapes, abandoned farms, bogs, hills, lakes, dykes, turloughs, woodlands, picturesque villages, meadows and idyllic botharins.
Three of the younger residents of the Eglinton took part.

Great Crowds & Tasty Foods at Intercultural Barbeque!

2009-09-01T21:39:00.006+01:00

Patrick Prepares a Congolese Barbecue

Saturday's Intercultural Barbecue at the Spanish Arch was an outstanding success.

This Food Stand served barbecued meats that was both Hot & Chile!

For a few hours, the August rains stopped and sunshine warmed the big crowds that turned up to enjoy along the banks of the river mouth-watering charcoal meat dishes from Ireland, Africa and South America.

An Ethiopian & Sierra Leonese Friendship

Irish Government Minister, Eamon Ó Cuiv and Mayor of Galway, Councillor Declan McDonnell paid tribute to the way local people have warmly welcomed its new non-nationals residents to the city.Truly a City of the Tribes!

Fun & Food Intercultural Festival in Galway - August 29!

2009-08-19T11:21:00.000+01:00

Eglinton Ladies Play Their Part in Making the Volvo Boat Race A Success for Galway!

2009-05-29T23:47:00.004+01:00

Female residents of the Eglinton played their part in laying the groundwork for the success of the round-the-world Volvo Boat Race's stay in Galway. This is the first time that this famous race came to Ireland and most of the people in Galway seemed to be involved in some way in supporting this event .
The Eglinton ladies helped clear refuse from the beaches of Salthill on the Sunday before the yachts arrival from Boston as part of a major clean-up of 7 local beaches coordinated by Atlantaquaria, Ireland's National Aquarium of Ireland.
Over 80 volunteers from all walks of life turned up to pick up debris.

Day Trip to The Turoe Pet Farm

2009-03-23T18:45:00.003Z

the children from the Eglinton Preschool will be going on a daytrip to The Turoe Pet Farm on 8th April 2009. Wishing them all and their brilliant teachers and wonderful volunteers a fun day !!!

2009-03-23T18:44:00.000Z

Thanks to Judith, Christiana and Ogechi for attending the recent Intercultural Forum in City Hall.

2009-03-23T18:42:00.001Z

The next committee meeting is on Monday, 30th March 2009 at 11am. A silk scarf painting workshop is currently being organised.

HAPPY ST PATRICK'S DAY TO EVERYONE

2009-03-23T18:40:00.001Z

The St. Patrick's Day Parade in the city centre will begin at 12.30pm on Tuesday, 17th March 2009.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2009-03-23T18:38:00.004Z

Happy 1st birthday to Bisola whose first birthday party was held in the Eglionton on 14th March 2009.

2009-03-23T18:38:00.001Z

WELCOME TO OUR MANY NEW RESIDENTS.

Congratulations to Njllah

2009-03-23T18:31:00.000Z

Congratulations to Njllah who got her papers to remain in Ireland.

Well Done David

2009-03-23T18:30:00.002Z

Well Done to David Givich whose rugby team recently won the golden Plate, each team member received a medal.

2009-03-23T18:28:00.001Z

At the moment Brendan Smith and a working group from the Eglinton Hotel are working alongside with Aidan Gray from An Taisce to organise some coastal-based activities including a day trip and exhibition, further information will be posted as soon as possible.

2009-03-23T18:22:00.002Z

A big well done to Nnamdi Ukah who organised a forum on Friday, 13th March 2009 in the Menlo Park Hotel for residents of the three direct provision hostels (The Eglinton Hotel, The Great Western Hostel and Lisbrook House) in Galway to register them to vote in their local elections. The forum was hugely successful and well attended. A big thank you to Triona and Suzanne from the GRSG for helping and attending, also much thanks and gratitude to TD Frank Fahey and local councillors Mary Leahy, Billy Cameron, Tom Costello and representatives from The Igbo Community, the Edo Community and the Africa Centre for attending and for supporting all the residents. A special thanks also to Garda Ronan McNulty for providing the transport for the residents from the Eglinton Hotel.

2009-03-23T18:20:00.002Z

Lorraine from AIDS WEST is holding Health Information Sessions in the Eglinton on Tuesdays. Currently there are two classes in progress, 11am-12pm on Tuesday mornings and 3-4pm on Tuesday afternoons

High Turnout for Voter Registration

2009-03-22T15:44:00.007Z

With local government elections only a few months (June) away, there was a very positive response by Eglinton residents towards the recent voter registration event held in the Menlo Park Hotel. People were delighted that a number of national and local politicians turned up to talk to asylum seekers and others about the issues that effects their daily lives.

Frank Fahey TD dancing with residents at the Eglinton Adult Christmas Party Dec 2008

Following on from this registration event, Frank Fahey- member of the national parliament (Daíl Éireann)- visited the Eglinton on Friday last to converse further with residents and inform them that he is having an Information event for Eglinton residents within the next weeks. This event will be held in the nearby KCRMA bar where we held our Christmas Adult Party.

Computer Courses Coming to an End

2009-03-22T15:06:00.008Z

Participants on the recent DERI Internet Awareness Course- (L-R) Lucky, Shpresa & Vivian

The Fetac Computer Course organised by the Galway City VEC (Vocational Education Committee) and the Internet Awareness Course provided by the DERI Institute at Galway University (NUIG) will be ending soon.
Whilst the VEC may not be providing any similar programme again in the Eglinton due to recent state cutbacks, nevertheless it is hoped that DERI can still continue to do so. However this possibility depends primarily on the commitment of Eglinton residents according to DERI's course tutor and Outreach Officer Brendan Smith.
According to Brendan, "It is essential that Eglinton residents that sign up for learning programmes provided by outside voluntary individuals and groups actually attend all sessions. Otherwise it undermines future opportunities for the Eglinton residents as the resources and committments available to many of these volunary support organisations and individuals are becoming increasingly limited. In the future, they will probably go to work where both the demand and class participation is shown to be high."

Increase in the Amounts of Opening Hours of Computer Room?

Finally there are negotiations presently taking place with mangement to try and ensure that the Eglinton Computer Room is opened every weekday morning and evening for a minimum amount of hours.
Unfortunately, reliance of student volunteer supervisors alone has been problematic over the last year due to a combination of exams, holidays and lectures.
We hope to have news on this issue within the next two weeks.
So Watch this Space!!

Asylum Seekers are Urged to Attend Health Information Day at Galway University

2009-03-08T18:02:00.004Z

Galway Refugee Support Group (GRSG) National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG)

present
Health Services Information Open Day
March 25th 2009
11am – 4pm
Orbsen Building, NUIG

Information stalls from 50 different health-related organisations and service providers including those concerning cancer, citizen’s information, complementary health, depression, drugs awareness, mental health, nutrition, organic food, sexual health, etc… as well as fitness, health checks and health screening

This is a FREE event, and is open to EVERYBODY
New residents of Galway, refugees and asylum seekers are particularly welcome.
This is an opportunity to find out about all the health services that are available in Galway.
The event is in the Orbsen building and will be signposted from all entrances to the University
For full details contact helengrsg@eircom.net or GRSG on 091 779083

Eglinton Residents All at Sea!

2009-02-26T15:46:00.011Z

There are plans to set up a new group in the Eglinton whose aim is to promote an awareness of the importance of keeping Ireland's seashores clean as well as to increase knowledge of the country's marine wildlife.

Last Tuesday, 10 residents met with Aidan Gray from Coastwatch Ireland and Sandra Flavin from An Taisce (Ireland's Heritage Watch group) as well as Brendan Smith from Galway University who organised the meeting in Atlantaquaria.

The idea was to set up an Eglinton branch of Coastwatch Ireland. It was agreed that efforts would be made to organise a bus trip to a beach in Connemara that would combine an enjoyable day trip with an environmental learning experience for the adult residents of our asylum seekers' accommodation.

For this trip, Aidan will act as ecological guide and educate participants on the species that inhabit the rock pools and shoreline. He intends to give a talk in the Eglinton next month before the trip takes places which is expected to be in late April.

In May, it is planned that the residents will participate as a distinct group in the largest one-day clean up ever of Irish coastal areas. It is being coordinated by Collete Lavin of the nearby Atlantaquaria (Ireland's national aquarium centre) and will take place all along the Salthill waterfront which as we know is literally outside the doors of the Eglinton. This event will form part of the lead-up to the arrival of the round-the-world Volvo Boat Race to Galway in May.

Residents hope that involvement in such pro-active volunteer schemes such as Coastwatch Ireland will help in the integration of asylum seekers into Irish society.

For further information, contact any member of the Eglinton Residents Committee or Carole Raftery at reception

Chidi Gets Residency Status!

2009-02-09T00:43:00.002Z

Congrats to Chidi for recently securing residency status!
Everyone in the Eglinton is delighted as she is a very popular lady due to her voluntary activities on behalf of local asylum-seekers.
Her greatest achievement was her key role in organising last year's highly successful Fashion Show which gained very positive national exposure both locally and nationally.
We wish her and her family all the very best for the future.

Alan Gallagher - Rest In Peace

2009-01-19T16:21:00.006Z

Alan Gallagher (centre) at the recent Asylum Seekers Christmas Party 2008

The Eglinton residents extend their sincere condolences to the friends, work colleagues and family of Alan Gallagher on his recent and tragic death.
Just before Christmas, Alan was commissioned by his employer, the Galway Independent, to photograph the attendees at Galway's first Christmas Party for Adult Asylum Seekers in the KCRMA (see article below).
This he did and he amicably chatted to so many of us on the night as he went about setting up and photographing smiley happy people!
A number of his photographs of the occasion subsequently appeared in the Christmas edition of the Galway Independent thus raising the morale of the residents of both the Eglinton and the Great Western Centres.

Was Santa Too Friendly with the Eglinton Staff?!!

2009-01-19T16:13:00.004Z

(Click on photographs for larger version)

A number of children noticed that Santa Claus during his visit to the Eglinton seemed to be over-familiar with the some of the staff. Very Suspicious!Our Advice is that next year Santa should keep his hands off the adults!

Christmas Day 2008 in the Eglinton

2008-12-31T21:55:00.006Z

Thanks to all the staff of the Eglinton for making Christmas so special to the residents. We really appreciate your efforts!

Galway's First Christmas Party for Adult Asylum Seekers!

2008-12-31T21:39:00.007Z

It is not only the children that have fun at Christmas! For the first Christmas Party for the Galway city's Adult Asylum Seekers held in the Slavic-themed KRCMA in Salthill was an outstanding success thanks to the ever-hardworking, ever-smiling Carole Raftery & her band of trusty resident volunteers.
Special guest of honour was Frank Fahey TD (introduced by Brendan Smith), one of our local political representative in the Irish national parliament (Dáil Éireann) who really got into the spirit of the occasion as he bopped away on the dance floor!
For more photographs from this great occasion, click here!

Children's Christmas Party in the Eglinton

2008-12-31T21:28:00.007Z

Well done to Santa and his trusty band of helpers for giving so much enjoyment to the young residents at the Eglinton Children's Christmas Party.
Click here to enjoy loads more photographs of this wonderful occasion.

Our Dr. Hans Launches Multi-Lingual Poster as a Communication Aid for Irish Doctors

2008-12-09T21:32:00.005Z

A multilingual poster designed as a communication aid to address language barriers in general practice was launched recently in Galway University by Dr. Hans-Olaf Pieper who is well known to locally-based asylum seekers.The multilingual poster has been used in the consultation room of the Eglinton Accommodation Centre since April 2008 as part of a pilot project. Dr. Hans & Martin Bakala, one of the many friendly staff members in the Eglington demonstrate how to use it.

The arrival of migrant workers, asylum seekers and refugees to Ireland presents new challenges to Irish health services. A specific challenge for General Practice is that General Practitioners and their patients may not have a shared language. Over the past year, the Department of General Practice, National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) has collaborated with Pfizer Healthcare Ireland to develop a multilingual poster. The aim of the poster is to facilitate communication with patients with limited English proficiency, to provide a tool to overcome minor language barriers during consultations and to serve as a welcome poster in GP surgeries for patients coming from different ethnic backgrounds. The poster was developed and research related to the poster undertaken as part of the work of the Fellow in Asylum Seeker and Refugee Healthcare, NUIG. The current holder of the post is Dr Hans-Olaf Pieper. The post is a collaborative project between the Department of General Practice, NUIG, the Primary Care Department, HSE West and the Galway Refugee Support Group.

In light of a positive evaluation of a pilot project among GPs in Co. Galway, the multilingual poster and a quick guide for receptionists will be distributed to all GPs in Ireland at the end of the month.

It is hoped that the multilingual poster fulfils its aims and that it supports patients and GPs when experiencing minor language barriers in General Practice, always bearing in mind that the poster does not aim to replace the professional, trained interpreter, the use of whom remains strongly supported.

Rosebella don Pedro from the Galway Refugee Support Group, Mary McMahon, our English tutor from the VEC, Jorge Gelata & Hamida Soudi Juma from the Eglinton enjoyed a great time at the poster launch.

2008-10-04T18:16:00.002+01:00

Welcome back to Mary McMahon, our wonderful English tutor from the V.E.C. She is holding English calsses in Room 27 every week. For more information please contact reception.

2008-10-04T18:14:00.003+01:00

Henry Dankyi's 1st Birthday celebratory party was held in The Eglinton Hotel on Saturday, 20th September from 1pm - 9 pm. d.J. Femi provided the music.

2008-10-04T18:11:00.003+01:00

The Afro Cultural Explosion Dance Show 2008 was held on saturday night, 30th August 2008 in Renmore. A great show was performed and fun was had by all. Well done to Filipe Kebana, Room 21 and Patrick Nlandu, Room 3 who were on the organising committee of the show.

2008-10-04T18:08:00.001+01:00

A HUGE THANK YOU TO MARY MCCARTHY AND HER SEWING CLASS FOR THEIR WONDERFUL QUILT WHICH IS PROUDLY DISPLAYED IN RECEPTION.

Mary is gona on holidays for a few weeks so further information regarding sewing classes will be posted at reception in the near future.

2008-10-04T18:06:00.001+01:00

Good luck to all the children and adults as they start back in the academic year.

2008-10-04T18:04:00.003+01:00

The adults went to see 'Sex & The City' in the Eye Cinema and all feedback was positive.

2008-10-04T17:55:00.002+01:00

A BIG THANK YOU TO TED, GENEVIEVE & SANDRA for bringing the children to see 'The Mummy' in the Omniplex Cinema. A fabulous day was had by all.

2008-10-04T17:44:00.005+01:00

A BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE RESIDENTS WHO HAVE RECEIVED THEIR PAPERS OVER THE PAST FEW WEEKS, INCLUDING, godswill, Mayokun & Children, Frehiwot, Antonia & Mignon Manzo, robert, Mareta & Armen Tsaturov, Laure & Israel nanou, Ardo Mohamed, Joy & Saoirse Obeto, Rachel Adesina, Bujar, Mirsada, Eris & Ensar Alihakaj.

May every Irish blessing be yours as you go to your new Irish homes.

Thank you

2008-10-04T17:40:00.001+01:00

A BIG THANK YOU TO TED AND ALL THE PARENTS WHO accompanied the children to the pet farm in Turoe. A gread day was held by all. Thanks also to Patrick and all the staff in The Eglinton for organising all the food and to the committee for organising the funds and transport for the trip.

Thank you

2008-10-04T17:39:00.001+01:00

A big thank you to Gardai Ronan and Ciara for organising the Garda bus for the children to attend the FAI soccer camp in Mervue last Saturday. A fun day was had by all.

Primrose's Health & Fitness Class

2008-10-04T17:30:00.003+01:00

Primrose has started a Women's Health & fitness Class in the hotel. They are currently meeting at 7pm in reception.

Football Practice for Children

2008-10-04T17:21:00.004+01:00

Ogechi is currently organising some football practice for children in Salthill. More information to follow.

AIDS West

2008-10-04T17:11:00.001+01:00

Afra from AIDS West is organising health awareness seminars for staff and residents as & from 15th and 22nd October. AIDS West would also like to inform residents that free condoms are available from Dr. Hans in theh otel and from their office in the city centre.

Thank you, Arben

2008-10-04T17:02:00.002+01:00

A big thank you to Arben for supervising the children's computer classes on Saturday mornings. As & from Saturday 4th october Ayishat will be supervising adults computer sessions.

The Arts Festival

2008-10-04T16:59:00.005+01:00

The Arts Festival in Westside is starting on Monday 6th October 2008. For more details please ask at reception or contact Suzanne at The Galway Refugee Support Group, 091-779083 or 085-7272445.

2008-10-04T16:45:00.002+01:00

Sinead from The SPARKY Youth Project has organised a support group for all teenage asylum seekers and refugees. The group will meet on Wednesday 8th October 2008 at 4.30pm in The Gaf Cafe on Eglinton Street. If residents attend their bus tickets can be reimbursed upon presenting the ticket to Sinead.

Chicken Pox

2008-10-04T16:43:00.000+01:00

The hotel is currently under quarantine for Chicken Pox so please be aware.

Closure of Galway Language School Angers Asylum Seekers & Locals Alike

2008-06-26T23:47:00.003+01:00

The decision of the Irish government to suddenly close the Integrate Ireland Language & Training School in the Westside Galway City led to a mass protest in Eyre Square by many of its students, including present and past residents of the Eglinton Asylum Seekers Accommodation Centre.
The school has provided a much-needed service to asylum seekers for the last 4 years, providing vital classes for nearly 400 people in speaking, reading and writing in the English language. The majority of these students went on to further post-Leaving Certificate and 3rd level studies.
The Department of Justice has stated though that the state's Vocational Education Committee (VEC) will deliver this service later in the year.
However campaigners, supported by political representatives such as Michael D. Higgins TD & Deputy Mayor Collette Connolly, have demanded that the school should remain operational until such time as the VEC starts providing its own courses which will not commence until the autumn at the earliest

Big Intercultural Festival Barbeque competition in Spanish Arch this Saturday!

2008-06-26T23:37:00.002+01:00

A wonderful new initiative is being organised to promote and celebrate Galway’s cultural diversity. The barbeque event will see the Spanish Arch in the city being transformed into a colourful and vibrant festival of cooking, music, entertainment and international culture. The entire event will take place this Saturday, the 28th of June 2008, from 10am till 5pm.

This is an initiative of Galway City Community Forum and Galway City Partnership, both non-profit organisations working in the local community and voluntary sector.

This is similar to an existing event which runs every April/May in Limerick, organised by the Irish BBQ Association, please see link to coverage of the Limerick World Barbeque Cook Off: http://www.riverfeast.ie/.

The barbeque will be organised into a minimum of 25 teams with each team having its own fully equipped cooking area. Teams can enter on a country basis. So far we received registration forms from such countries as: Romania, Brasil, Portugal, Poland, The United States of America, Nigeria, India, Phillipino and many more. Teams will have 2,5 hours to grill a piece of chicken and a piece of beef according to cooking traditions from their home countries. Meat will be provided by the organisers, teams have to bring over their own spices and a panel of judges will access them in at least three major categories: the most tasteful piece of meat, the best served meal and the general look of the stall, as team can decorate their stall the way they will represent their home countries. The vegeterian option will be available, too.

A music festival and bands from all over the world will accompany the barbeque competition.
The music festival is co-organised with Sean Agus Nua, the project focusing on multiculturalism in Galway.

For further details please contact Ernest Bishop on the following contact details:

Ernest Bishop Galway City Partnership 086-2440677

What A Show!

2008-06-04T23:27:00.017+01:00

Last Thursday's Reap the Runway Fashion Show was an Outstanding Success. It achieved top marks for Stylish Clothing, Creativity, Innovative Design, Beautiful Models, Zany Presenters, Gorgeous Door staff, Cultural interchange, Popular Music and Audience participation.
Organised by the wonderful hard-working trio of Chidi, Suzanne and Carole supported by the Eglinton Residents' Support Committee, the event secured a high-level of local and national media attention in the weeks leading up to the event. Photo: Suzanne, Carole & Chidi

But the African-themed show was more than a once-off soon-to-be -forgotten activity. For it has made a lasting impression amongst asylum-seekers scattered across Galway City by generating a sense of pride and togetherness that has bonded the diverse communities living in the Eglinton, Lisbrook House and the Great Western. Not only that, but it has also helped to break down barriers and create a strong feeling of 'solidarity' between staff, management, present and former residents of these three centres.

It was a joy to behold staff and support members Anne Keady, Dr. Hans Olaf-Pieper and Noemi Farkas strutting their stuff on the catwalk and to watch the smiles of satisfaction on the faces of Patrick McGovern(Eglinton), Pat O'Connor and Caitlin Dolan(Lisbrook). Just as important was the active involvement on the night of former residents such as Natasha, Anastacia and Dmitry as well as the presence of former Eglinton committee members Helena Heagney,Adrienne Lynam and Cliona Sheehan.
Photographs of the event were taken by Dr. Hans Piper & Brendan Smith (a.k.a. 'Computer Man'). Further photographs will be posted on the website later this week.

Treasured Memories from the 'Reap the Runway'

Repertoire of presenters David & Ellen. Ellen 's wisecracks had the crowd constantly laughing in the aisles and made her into one of the stars of the event. She truely belongs on a big international stage. - Go to it Girl!!

Chidi's & Carole's amazing hairdos
Patrick McGovern's ear-to-ear smileStunning African Head Gear

Anne Keady's 'Shaking that Ass' routine
Noemi Farkas (centre) models the new uniform hopefully being considered by Patrick for Eglinton reception staff (male & female)!

Maria's Dual-Coloured Dress

Galway's Finest Door staff!
Dr. Han's impersonation of an on-stage 'Full Monty' (photo shows Hans being cheered by dozens of his adoring female fans!)
The Child Models- they stole the show and had everyone on their feet applauding
Galway's Best-Dressed Audience ever!!!
Ireland's Prettiest Mother & Daughter Duo
Pat O'Connor (left) appearing without a suit supported by his friendly doctor!

More Fashion Show Photos!
For more photographs from the Fashion Show click here

African Film Festival

2008-05-17T19:20:00.002+01:00

Irish Aid have organised an African Film Festival in The Town Hall Theatre from June 1-2 2008 with free admission for residents.

Football

2008-05-17T19:08:00.001+01:00

Children aged 7-10 years are currently training for football under the care of Mr. Gary Fitzgerald from The Claddagh School.

Friends Club

2008-05-17T19:06:00.002+01:00

The Friends Club are busy every week, co-ordinating events for the children. The Cinema Club is also underway, advertisements will be posted at reception.

Congratulations to Beatrice

2008-05-17T18:52:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to Beatrice on the birth of her beautiful daughter, Shalome Aisling.

Congratulation

2008-05-17T18:48:00.002+01:00

Congratulation to Esther, Amaka, Eugenia on receiving their papers.

Knitting Classes

2008-05-17T18:34:00.002+01:00

Knitting classes are to start in June for beginners and advanced. Materials will be provided. Please contact Carole or Mary McCarthy.

Yoga Classes

2008-05-17T18:29:00.002+01:00

Residents are participating in Yoga classes run by two ladies, Gwen and Aisling on Monday evenings from 7pm, in the city centre. If any residents are interested in enrolling please contact Carole.

Africa Day in Eyre Square

2008-05-17T18:27:00.001+01:00

On Sunday 25th May 2008 there will be an African day in Eyre Square. Residents from The Eglinton Hotel will be participating in a cultural dance performance and fashion parade.

Africa Day in Westside Resource Centre

2008-05-17T18:23:00.002+01:00

On Saturday 24th May 2008 there is an Africa day in Westside Resource Centre from 10.45am-3.00pm. Residents from The Eglinton Hotel will be participating in a cultural dance performance and fashion parade.

Patchwork Exhibition

2008-05-17T18:21:00.002+01:00

A group from the sewing classes went with Mary McCarthy, the sewing teacher to a patchwork exhibition in the City Museum. The residents who went had a great time and expressed high compliments on the exhibition.

Well done to Chidi

2008-05-17T18:19:00.001+01:00

Well done to Chidi who modelled for an 'Irish Times' fashion shoot on Saturday 17th May 2008 in Salthill.

Reap The Runway

2008-05-17T17:10:00.002+01:00

Preparations are well underway for 'Reap The Runway' Fashion Show. Practices for modelling in The Eglinton are being held on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings from 7pm-9pm. Practices for modelling in Lisbrook House are being held on Wednesday evening in Lisbrook House from 7pm-9pm.

Tickets are now on sale for the show, tickets can be purchased from Carole or at reception in The Eglinton Hotel.

Tickets are €10 each and €5 for Direct Provision Residents.
All proceeds will go to a 'Summer Picnic' Extravaganza for all residents.

Congratulations to Sandra

2008-05-17T17:05:00.003+01:00

Congratulations to Sandra Irughe who has graduated from Moneen na gCiseach Community College. Her graduation ceremony was held in the community college last Thrusday and a lovely evening was held by all.

Irish Heart Foundation

2008-05-17T17:00:00.002+01:00

A big well done to all the residents who volunteered for the Irish Heart Foundation Days. Residents who participated included Ogechi, Odion, Helen Ogbu, Judith, Christiana and Primrose.

'The African Voice'

2008-05-09T17:17:00.003+01:00

Ireland's No. 1 African newspaper

To view the newspaper website, click here