Castlemara’s ‘positive connections’ promoted

An initiative to promote good community relations in the Castlermara area of Carrickfergus “goes from strength to strength”.
Paul McCann, volunteer, with David McCallion, curator of War Years Remembered, with  Anne Glenn, the Housing Executives assistant housing services manager in Carrickfergus and Susanne Campbell, chair of Castlemara Community Association. INCT 39-708-CONPaul McCann, volunteer, with David McCallion, curator of War Years Remembered, with  Anne Glenn, the Housing Executives assistant housing services manager in Carrickfergus and Susanne Campbell, chair of Castlemara Community Association. INCT 39-708-CON
Paul McCann, volunteer, with David McCallion, curator of War Years Remembered, with Anne Glenn, the Housing Executives assistant housing services manager in Carrickfergus and Susanne Campbell, chair of Castlemara Community Association. INCT 39-708-CON

That was the message from the organisers after over 400 young people from Castlemara, Glenfield and Woodburn came together to enjoy an inter-community activity day.

The event, which was supported by the Housing Executive’s Community Cohesion team, included a climbing tower, bouncy assault course, dog display and Zorb football.

Susanne Campbell, chair of Castlemara Community Association, said: “Members of Castlemara Community Association have been on a journey of increased engagement and community dialogue but we recognise that our area’s future is in the hands of our young people.

“This event, and the preceding week’s summer scheme, is part of our aim to involve them from an early age, embedding good community relations, respect and tolerance of culture and history.

“It proved a terrific event with a lot of positive feedback from the young people and their parents. On behalf of our community association I’d like to thank the Housing Executive for their continued support and guidance.”

John Read, the Housing Executive’s Good Relations officer, commented: “Castlemara Community Association’s work with the Housing Executive and other organisations has gone from strength to strength.

“This was an opportunity to promote positive community connections and foster good relations. We look forward to seeing the group build on this strong foundation.”

The programme included a ‘Hands on History’ workshop delivered by War Years Remembered. This was a chance to explore our shared history through the role played by an Irish soldier from the 10th Irish Brigade and 16th Irish Brigade during WW1.

Mairead Myles-Davey, the housing authority’s area manager, said: “The message of good community relations certainly came through in Castlemara at this summer event. I commend the hard work of everyone involved in helping promote such a positive community spirit in the area and I am pleased the Housing Executive was able to play its part.”

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