Young people organise Clooney Community Festival

YOUNG People in Clooney have been working with the Clooney Estate Residents Association since May on a bonfire management programme, which includes aiming to make the bonfire safer, less damaging to the environment and organising a family festival.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Aug 2010, 10:45 BST
Updated 9th Aug 2010, 23:01 BST

The programme, funded by Derry City Council, which has a wider bonfire management programme began by looking at what is important to the young people in terms of the bonfire, what works well and what could be improved.

Weekly sessions including looking at the history of bonfires and the legacy of Protestantism and its cultural and heritage links including with the Union, the British Army, the Orange Order and Apprentice Boys, amongst others, with local historian Jim Arbuckle.

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Relevant statutory agencies also met with the young people, including Derry City Council and the NIFRS, to discuss making the fire safer and discussing any issues which may have arisen from the local community.

There was also a visit to North Belfast to view their Bonfire management programme, which has been operating for several years and includes re-usable Beacons, which are contained pyriamid fire structures.

Adele Dunn, Community Worker explained: “Perhaps the most beneficial aspect of the programme was the forum for discussion which occurred at the weekly sessions. This allowed dialogue between the young people and all stakeholders, whereas previously communication would have broken down, which led to misunderstandings and resentment on all sides. Thankfully, this has this year been diverted.”

The programme is a pilot programme, with a planned festival including inflatables, food and games. The programme will be documented and a good practice guide produced next month.

Clooney Community Festival will be held this Friday, August 13 from 5.30pm with family fun at the field, admission 2

Related topics:NIFRS