Council Chair hosts reception in recognition of the 40th anniversary of Kesh Evergreens

Recently the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, hosted a reception to mark the 40th anniversary of Kesh Evergreens.

The following is the speech which was delivered by the Chair at the reception.

Fellow Councillors, ladies and gentlemen

As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all here to The Townhall, Enniskillen for this reception in honour of the 40^th Anniversary of Kesh Evergreens.

I understand the Kesh Evergreens was established in November 1982 by three late members, Mrs Joan Bell, Mrs Annie Flynn and Mrs Maureen Loane.  The first meeting had approximately 12-14 members and during your 40 years you have had a very strong membership.

The Group organises a wide range of activities and events including luncheons, tea dances, armchair aerobics, walks, visits to other Senior Citizens Clubs and Summer outings.

I am also told that you are great supporters of events in the local village organised by other groups and the local schools and help with events at the Kesh Carnival and are regular participants in the Fancy Dress parade.

Groups such as Kesh Evergreens are vital in rural areas as they provide a great networking and social outlet for many, helping to create friendships and combat isolation.

As a partner in the Fermanagh and Omagh Community Plan 2030, the Council is committed to ensuring that our older residents lead more independent, engaged and socially connected lives.  Through Groups such as yours, this can be achieved.

In partnership with South West Age Partnership, the Western Health and Social Care Trust and the Public Health Agency, the Council organises Positive Ageing Month in October each year and I know that some of you have participated in these events.

The Council is also involved in the Happy At Home publication which provides short activities, events and useful contacts for a wide range of support services.

I would encourage you all to participate in and avail of these opportunities and details can be obtained from the South West Age Partnership or the Council’s Age Friendly Co-Ordinator.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council., and on my own behalf, I would like to commend all the Committee Members and Members of Kesh Evergreens, past and present, for sustaining the Group for the past 40 years.  It is a great achievement to have such a vibrant group in a rural area.  This is testament to the commitment and strength of the members, and, in particular, those who are responsible for planning and organising the programme of events.

I would like to wish you every success for the future.

Thank you.