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ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT ROBINSON AT THE LAUNCH OF THE YOUTHQUILT PROJECT AND THE YOUTHREACH VIDEO DIARY

ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT ROBINSON AT THE LAUNCH OF THE YOUTHQUILT PROJECT AND THE YOUTHREACH VIDEO DIARY IN THE GUINNESS HOP STORE

I am very pleased to have been invited here this evening to launch the YouthQuilt Project along with the Youthreach Video Diary.

YouthQuilt is a unique all Ireland venture involving 30 Youthreach and Community Training Workshops from all over the country, who have each contributed their skills and creativity to the development of this Youthquilt.  It consists of 30 quilted and appliquéd panels, each depicting local scenes or initiatives.  I noticed that the panel from Laois is centred around Mountmellick/Carrickmacross Lace, Ballinasloe's panel has a horse motif and the panel from Enniskillen appropriately has a waterscape.  The Video Diary tells the compelling story of 3 Youthreach trainees, the circumstances which influenced them to leave school early, and how Youthreach helped them to gain control of their lives.  This is merely an example of the experiences of many young people on Youthreach and an indication of their commitment and courage in coming to terms with their difficulties, assuming responsibility and gaining vocational skills, highlighting the process of transition towards identifying and achieving career and life goals.

I understand that the Youthreach programme is designed to provide a flexible and local response to the needs of young people in each locality.  I am particularly impressed by the manner in which this flexibility has been used to create such innovative and co-operative projects.  It is obvious that this has been a valuable learning experience for everybody, trainees and staff alike.  I see evidence before me not only of the craft and technical skills which were essential to bring them to fruition, but also of the integration of these with social, personal and lifeskills, and with mathematical, design, creative and communicative skills.  The projects reflect the creative talents and team spirit of young people on Youthreach all around the country.

They are also an example of what can be achieved through cross community co-operation, particularly co-operation between North and South, and between the diverse outlooks which can pertain in urban and rural divides.  It is a pleasure to witness the enthusiasm and commitment exhibited by both students and staff in bringing these projects to fruition.  There is an obvious rapport between the staff in the various centres and the students who have risen magnificently to the challenge of portraying such vibrant images of the essence of Youthreach.

I am sure that the young people involved have found the experience enjoyable, interesting and productive, and I believe that the skills and knowledge gained in these projects and on the programme generally, will be of great benefit in their next stage of development.

The success of YouthQuilt and the Youthreach Video Diary underlines the importance and effectiveness of intervention programmes such as Youthreach.  Early School leavers can be helped to deal with disadvantages, gain control of their lives, and make a positive contribution to society.

I understand that the YouthQuilt has a very busy schedule ahead, and that it will be on display in various centres and festivals throughout the country over the coming months, including Northern Ireland, finishing its tour in 1995.

The Video Diary too will be actively circulated, and will be an important resource for centres, staff and decision makers involved in Youthreach right round the country.  It will also help as a useful motivational tool in encouraging more young people to join Youthreach and remain to complete the programme.

The harnessing of community goodwill and support into such creative, innovative and collaborative undertakings is very evident here today.  There is an atmosphere of motivation, excitement, pride of spirit and self-confidence which are sure indicators of a healthy and enthusiastic learning environment in the centres from which these projects emanated.

I know that those involved worked very hard to make the projects a success.  I would like to congratulate all the trainees who contributed so much of their time, talents, and skills toward these collaborative ventures.  I hope they and their families are proud of their achievements.

I am proud to be able to officially launch the YouthQuilt and Youthreach Video Diary projects.

Rath Dé an obair.