President launches Mountview project

Last month saw the launch of the highly successful “Fáilte Isteach” initiative aimed at teaching English to migrants in the Mountview Community Centre.

The initiative was launched by president Mary McAleese before an audience of over 300 people – both from the Dublin 15 area and also representing many of the 16 other Fáilte Isteach schemes around Ireland.

First established in 2006 in Summerhill, Co. Meath by well known community activist Mary Nally, founder of Third Age Foundation, the Fáilte Isteach project is helping to build stronger, more integrated communities through the practical, welcoming and inclusive manner in which the programme is delivered. The classes in the Blanchardstown area, like all 17 operating nationwide, are run entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers who have extended the hands of friendship and goodwill to new migrants in their community by giving weekly conversational English classes.

Speaking at the launch, President McAleese praised Mary Nally for her efforts. “Mary Nally doesn’t just have good ideas, she incubates viruses - but very good viruses – which grow to become magnificent projects,” she said.

“It is wonderful to see this big hall filled with so many people who have heard the message and believe and care and have now become part of this great movement,” said the President.

According to Liam Carey, national development officer of Fáilte Isteach, “we are not stopping here – this is just the start. We plan to open five more centres before Easter. When Mary Nally gets an idea, nothing gets in the way of it.”

The Fáilte Isteach programme for Dublin 15 is being co-ordinated by Blanchardstown Area Partnership and further information is available from Lilian Harris (tel. 820 9550 or email lharris@bap.ie).

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