I was delighted to represent the Lord Mayor this morning at the launch of "Civic Participation and Third Country Nationals" in the Wood Quay Venue, this morning.
This is a really impressive initiative being undertaken in partnerhsipe with the New Comunities Partnership, Akidwa, the Four Dublin Local Authorities, Dublin City Council, Dun Laoghair Rathdown, Dublin South, and Fingal County Council.
Dr Elaine Byrne from Trinity College has developed an excellent "Beginners Guide to Society, Culture and Politics in Ireland".
I was hugely impressed with the enthusiasm of the representatives of the New Communities. This is a programme which should be replicated throughout the country and indeed throughout Europe.
The text of my speech can be viewed here:
A Sense of Place is an Essential Component In Developing Citizenship In Our New Communities
