Birmingham Irish News

Irish Language Classes at Birmingham Irish

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:55:33 GMT

The recent Irish language taster session was a truly wonderful success, bringing together a fantastic group of people for an afternoon of learning, connection, and culture. The turnout exceeded expectations, with the room filled with enthusiastic participants of all backgrounds, all eager to experience the beauty and richness of the Irish language.

From the moment the session began, there was a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The space was alive with conversation, curiosity, and a shared sense of excitement. Whether complete beginners or those returning to the language after some time, everyone felt included and encouraged to take part. The interactive nature of the session meant that attendees were not just passive listeners but actively engaged, speaking, listening, and enjoying the process together.

The benefits of learning Irish were evident throughout the session. Beyond simply acquiring a new language, participants were connecting with Irish culture, heritage, and identity in a meaningful way. Language is a powerful link to history and tradition, and for many, this was an opportunity to rediscover or deepen that connection. Others found joy in the cognitive and social benefits learning a new skill, meeting like-minded people, and building confidence in a supportive environment.

The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. There was a clear sense that everyone enjoyed themselves, with plenty of smiles, laughter, and a genuine eagerness to continue learning. The relaxed and friendly setting made it easy for people to participate without pressure, which is exactly what these sessions aim to achieve.

This taster session highlighted just how valuable and enjoyable these classes can be. They are not only educational but also social and uplifting. A space where people can come together, share experiences, and celebrate Irish language and culture.

Following such a successful turnout, there is great excitement for the upcoming classes. Anyone interested in joining or wanting to learn more is warmly encouraged to get in touch.

For any enquiries, please contact: sinead@birish.org.uk

We look forward to welcoming even more people on this rewarding journey of learning and connection.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We publish news and project updates keeping you up to date with details regarding our services and events, as well as other local developments and other news that will be of interest to our clients as well as other visitors.

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Volunteering & Traveller Research

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:54:23 GMT

Meet Róisín Mason

Róisín has worked for Birmingham Irish Association since October 2019 so almost six and a half years. As a Volunteer Co-ordinator I support my colleagues by matching prospective volunteers to their projects. I meet up with the volunteers on a regular basis when visiting our shop, dementia service, office and activity groups .

"As a Traveller Research Worker, I help with requests about the Traveller community from university students, statutory organisations, charities and councils by supplying them with relevant information. I raise awareness of the Traveller community by highlighting policies that affect them and highlighting good news stories on our social media pages.

“In preparation for the move to our new centre in Kings Heath I fielded nearly 40 volunteer enquiries. It is humbling and encouraging to see so many people wanting to give their time and share their skills to give something back to the community through volunteering.” – Róisín

“I am looking forward to getting to know our volunteers more and celebrating them during Volunteer Week from the 1st to the 7th June. Keeping fingers crossed that we have success in this year’s Irish in Britain Volunteer Awards after our volunteer led Ramblers group won in 2024. Also celebrating Gypsy (Romani), Roma and Traveller History month in June giving me the chance to share amazing stories and expand people’s knowledge.” – Róisíns

Róisín spoke to one of our long-standing volunteers about what being a volunteer and volunteering means to them.

“Before volunteering I was shy and found it difficult to put myself forward in crowds. Since my first day volunteering at the dementia centre, I immediately felt at home and knew this was the place for me. My confidence has grown, and I’ve made so many new friends, joined new groups, had so many new experiences, visited new places and I am one of the lead volunteers for one of our activity groups. Volunteering has added so much to my life.”

You can also check out the fantastic volunteering roles available on our social media pages.”

To get in touch with Róisín

Call: 0121 604 6111

Email: roisin@birish.org.uk

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:52:47 GMT

Cúpla Focal – Aibreán 2026

Dia daoibh a chairde.

I wonder if you found the English for all those counties last month?

Here they are, just in case! (A lovely phrase in Irish for just in case is, Ar eagla na heagla).

Contaethe – Counties

Cúige Uladh has nine counties: Ulster

Contae Fhear Manach - Fermanagh

Contae Dhún na nGall - Donegal

Contae Aontroma - Antrim

Contae Ard Mhaca - Armagh

Contae An Dúin - Down

Contae Mhuineacháin - Monaghan

Contae Dhoire - Derry

Contae Thír Eoghan - Tyrone

Contae An Chabháin - Cavan

Cúige Mumhan has six counties: Munster

Contae Chiarraí - Kerry

Contae Chorcaí - Cork

Contae Phort Láirge - Waterford

Contae An Chláir - Clare

Contae Thiobrad Arann - Tipperary

Contae Luimní - Limerick

Cúige Laighean has twelve counties: Leinster

Contae Lú - Louth

Contae Uíbh Fhailí - Offaly

Contae Chill Mhantáin - Wicklow

Contae Chill Chainnigh - Kilkenny

Contae Cheatharlach - Carlow

Contae Bhaile Átha Cliath - Dublin

Contae Na Mí - Meath

Contae Na hIarmhí - West meath

Contae Longfoirt - Longford

Contae Chill Dara - Kildare

Contae Loch Garman - Wexford

Contae Laoise - Laois

Cúige Chonnacht has five counties: Connaught

Contae Na Gaillimhe - Galway

Contae Mhaigh Eo - Mayo

Contae Ros Comáin - Roscommon

Contae Liatroma - Leitrim

Contae Shligigh - Sligo

Well done, or comhghairdeas, if you got all of those!

And now for a change! Birmingham Irish Association has recently started a live Irish class for beginners at the new Irish Centre in Kings Heath. This is taking place on Fridays at 4pm. Anyone who is keen to learn Irish as a beginner is welcome to come along.

In future this article will be based on the work covered in the Friday class, in summary form. The first class took place on Friday 27 March, when we covered greeting and initial conversation. For pronunciation, it will be necessary to join a class, but here is the basic “starter” vocabulary:

Dia duit – Hello

Dia is Muire duit – response to Hello.

Conas atá tú? – How are you?

Tá mé go maith – I am well.

Cad is ainm duit? - What is your name?

(Terri) is ainm dom - My name is (Terri)

Is mise (Terri) - I’m (Terri)

Cé as thú? - Where are you from?

Is as Corcaigh mé. - I’m from Cork.

Sláinte – Cheers!

Slán – Goodbye

The next topic we cover will be food.

If you can’t attend classes, you will be able to follow the course right here.

Please get in touch with BIA if you have any questions or would like further information about courses.

Le meas,

Terri

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Report on the St Patrick’s Family Fun Day 2026

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 14:48:32 GMT

Our St. Patrick’s Family Fun Day was a massive success! ��

From the moment the doors opened, there was a real buzz in the air, with families, friends, and members of the community coming together to celebrate such a special occasion. The atmosphere throughout the day was incredible full of laughter, music, and smiling faces at every turn.

What made the day even more special was seeing the Irish community come together in such a meaningful way. It was heart-warming to witness people of all ages connecting, celebrating their heritage, and creating lasting memories with one another. The sense of togetherness and pride was felt throughout the entire event.

We’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year! ��

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Birmingham Irish Association: Irish Passport Service

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 14:44:34 GMT

Meet Catherine Kelly

Catherine has worked for Birmingham Irish Association for almost 7 years. Both parents were born in Ireland, so this position is very close her heart. Catherine’s role is to help people with their Passport & Irish Citizenship Applications. "I check all the documents, complete the online applications, and give advice."

They are not all straight forward so there will be times where she helps with the certificates and applications for Late Registration of Birth/Name Amendments (For Irish Born Citizens).

To qualify you must either have been born in Ireland or have an Irish born parent or grandparent. It doesn’t go any further back than this .

Catherine can help with ...

• Irish Passport applications

• Irish Citizenship applications

“I love helping people apply for their Irish Passports or Irish Citizenship. The number of applications keep rising year by year.”

Due to high demand this service is by appointment only .

To get in touch with Catherine

Call: 0121 604 6111

Email: catherine@birish.org.uk

Links you may find useful:

Passport Service Updates Page - www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/passport-online
General information regarding passport applications - www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/updates
General information regarding Foreign Birth Registrations - www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/citizenship/born-abroad

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 14:30:47 GMT

Dia daoibh a chairde

An mhí seo, ba mhaith liom smaoineamh ar cúigí agus contaethe na hÉireann. This month I would like to think about the provinces and counties of Ireland.

You will know of course that there are four provinces in Ireland, though the name for provinces is cúigí , which is the word for a fifth! In ancient times there were five provinces; Meath was once a province too!

Cúige Uladh – Ulster (Tuaisceart – North)

Cúige Mumhan – Munster (Deisceart - South)

Cúige Laighean – Leinster (Oirthear - East)

Cúige Chonnacht – Connaught (Iarthar – West)

Your challenge this month is to see how many of the counties’ names, listed below, you can translate to English. (Just a few of them are tricky!)

Do you know the county colours? And what about their nicknames?

Contaethe – Counties.

Cúige Uladh has nine counties:

Contae Fhear Manach
Contae Dhún na nGall
Contae Aontroma
Contae Ard Mhaca
Contae An Dúin
Contae Mhuineacháin
Contae Dhoire
Contae Thír Eoghan
Contae An Chabháin

Cúige Mumhan has six counties:

Contae Chiarraí
Contae Chorcaí
Contae Phort Láirge
Contae An Chláir
Contae Thiobrad Arann
Contae Luimní

Cúige Laighean has twelve counties:

Contae Lú
Contae Uíbh Fhailí
Contae Chill Mhantáin
Contae Chill Chainnigh
Contae Cheatharlach
Contae Bhaile Átha Cliath
Contae Na Mí
Contae Na hIarmhí
Contae Longfoirt
Contae Chill Dara
Contae Loch Garman
Contae Laoise

Cúige Chonnacht has five counties:

Contae Na Gaillimhe
Contae Mhaigh Eo
Contae Ros Comáin
Contae Liatroma
Contae Shligigh

Ádh mór leis an dhúshlán. Good luck with the challenge.

Beir bua,

Terri

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Come along to our St Patrick’s Family Fun Day 2026

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:57:29 GMT

Celebrate Irish culture, community spirit, and family fun at the St Patrick’s Family Fun Day 2026, a lively and welcoming event set to bring people of all ages together for an unforgettable afternoon.

Taking place on Sunday 15th March 2026 at the Irish Centre, (205 Wheeler’s Lane, Kings Heath, Birmingham), the festivities begin at 12 noon, with a packed programme of entertainment, activities, and delicious food that captures the true joy of St Patrick’s celebrations.

This vibrant family event is designed so everyone can join in the fun. Throughout the day, you’ll be able to enjoy fantastic live bands and music, creating a buzzing atmosphere filled with traditional Irish tunes and feel-good performances.

Children will have plenty to keep them entertained with a colourful funfair, exciting games, and face painting, while adults can browse stalls, socialise with friends, and soak up the festive energy.

The ever-popular tombola adds an extra layer of excitement, giving visitors the chance to win prizes while supporting the event.

Food lovers will be well catered for with classic favourites like Irish sausage baps perfect for enjoying while listening to the music or relaxing with family. You’ll also be able to explore Fitzgerald’s Irish Store, which will be open on the day selling a range of authentic Irish products, making it a great opportunity to pick up something special.

With entry priced at just £10 and free admission for children under 10, the day offers fantastic value for a full programme of entertainment, making it an ideal outing for families, friends, and anyone looking to celebrate Irish culture in a warm and friendly environment. Whether you’re coming for the music, the activities, the food, or simply the great atmosphere, you can expect a day full of smiles, laughter, and community spirit.

��️ Get your tickets here

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Help and Advice, Information and Advocacy

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:57:22 GMT

Meet Rosie Pocklington

Rosie has worked for Birmingham Irish Association for 20 years, providing advice, information and advocacy for the Irish and wider community on issues such as benefits, housing, return to or arrival from Ireland, Council Tax, HMRC, Irish and UK pensions, social services, neighbour issues, where to get help with family matters etc.

She also runs an outreach service at Father Taaffe House and The Homeless Health Xchange .

Rosie can help with ...

Completing and supporting benefit applications
Contacting social services
Information about services in the UK & Ireland
Supporting at benefit tribunals
Researching and signposting to appropriate organisations

“Birmingham Irish made a huge difference. I don’t know what I would have done without their support.”

To get in touch with Rosie

Call: 0121 604 6111

Email: rosie@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:57:11 GMT

Cúpla Focal Feabhra 2026

Haith a chairde. With St Valentine’s Day that occurred this month, I’d like to share some words of love with you!

Lá Fhéile Vailintín: St Valentine’s Day

There are lots of ways to express your love as Gaeilge!

Tá an grá san aer: Love is in the air

A stór (a stóirín): My pet, my darling

A thaisce: My treasure

A rún: My dear one, my loved one

A chuisle mo chroí: My darling (pulse of my heart)

Is tusa mo ghrá geal: You’re my dearest love

Grá síoraí (grá buan): Everlasting love

Tá grá agam duit: I love you

An bhfuil grá agat dom? Do you love me?

Tá mo chroí istigh ionat: I love you to bits. (My heart is in you)

Tá mé i ngrá leat: I’m in love with you

Tá mé dúnta i ngrá leat: I’m madly in love with you

An bhfuil tú craiceáilte i mo dhiaidh? Are you madly in love with me?

Tá mé i ndiaidh titim ar mhullach mo chinn i ngrá: I have fallen head over heels in love

Is tú grá mo chroí agus crá mo chroí: You are the love and the torment of my heart

Folaíonn grá gráin: Love is blind

Is cloíte an galar an grá: Love hurts.

Thit siad i ngrá: They fell in love.

D’fhuaraigh a ngrá: They fell out of love. (From the word, cold. Their love has gone cold)

Tá deargadh an ghrá orthu fós: They’re still in the first flush of love.

Litir ghrá (litir chumainn): Love letter

Filíocht ghrá: Love poetry

Amhrán grá: Love song

Ní chanann tú amhráin ghrá dom níos mó: You don’t sing me love songs any more.

Is iomaí cor a chuireann an grá de: Love never runs smoothly.

Ní lia ná leigheas ar an ghrá: There’s no cure for love.

Níl aon éalú ó gheasa an ghrá: There’s no escape from love’s clutches.

Is ait an mac an grá: There’s no accounting for love.

Is breá liom seacláid: I love chocolate.

Ná déan dearmad ar na bláthanna: Don’t forget the flowers.

Dá mhéad mo ghrá duit… Much as I love you…

Finally, a few lines from one of our greatest love poems i nGaeilge: Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire, written by his wife, Eibhlín Dhubh Ní Chonaill (1743 – 1800).

In the opening verse she remembers the first day she ever saw him:

Mó ghrá go daingean thú My steadfast love,

Lá dá bhfaca thú On a day when I saw you

Ag ceann tí an mhargaidh, By the market house gable

Thug mo shúil aire duit, I couldn’t take my eye off you

Thug mo chroí taitneamh duit, My heart shone with love for you

D’éalaíos óm’ charaid leat I fled from my friends with you

I bhfad ó bhaile leat... Far from home and hearth with you

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Birmingham Irish Association - Toy Appeal 2025 Update

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 14:39:06 GMT

In December 2025, the Birmingham Irish Association proudly reintroduced its Toy Appeal, continuing our commitment to supporting our wonderful community during the Christmas period.

The appeal focuses on supporting individuals and families facing hardship at Christmas, particularly in light of the ongoing cost of living crisis. Over the years, we have consistently received incredible support from local schools across Birmingham, GAA clubs, and members of our wider community.

We are delighted to share that the 2025 Toy Appeal was once again a huge success. The organisation received an outstanding number of toy donations, and we are continually humbled by the generosity shown at what is often a very costly time of year. While the response to our appeals is always heart-warming, this year’s kindness has been especially moving as so many more people in our community are being affected by the current crisis.

The following is from Eddie O’Connor (Trustee of Birmingham Irish Association)

"Thank you to the many community groups that we have collaborated with to reach far and wide across the city. Some of these include St Vincent De Paul and Mini Vinnies, Camp Hill Rugby Club, Solihull Family Hubs, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Sandwell Irish Society, Acorns Children's Hospice, Catholic Partnership Schools to support families in the communities they serve, Bottleville Social Club, all the referrals received and the many families who got in touch directly. It has been another great success and an incredible example of many communities coming together to look after families in need on our own doorstep."

Author - Eddie O’Connor (Trustee of Birmingham Irish Association)

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Birmingham Irish Association Christmas Party 2025

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 14:38:05 GMT

In December 2025, we were delighted to come together to celebrate the Birmingham Irish Association Christmas Party, generously hosted by The Irish Centre. ��

This much-anticipated event marked a special moment in our calendar and provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the festive season together as a community.

We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to The Irish Centre for not only hosting our Christmas party but for providing a delicious traditional Christmas dinner, which was enjoyed by everyone. The food, warm hospitality, and festive decorations all helped to create a truly magical atmosphere and ensured that everyone felt welcomed and well looked after.

Overall, it was a brilliant and memorable celebration that perfectly captured the spirit of Christmas togetherness, kindness, and joy. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who contributed to making the day such a success, and we are already looking forward with excitement and optimism to what 2026 will bring for our organisation. ��

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 14:36:34 GMT

Athbhliain faoi mhaise a chairde!

Happy New Year everyone!

First, let me just share the answers to the Christmas challenge with you:

Daidí na Nollag Santa Claus

síofraí Elves

Nollaig na mban Little/Women’s Christmas (6th January)

an mainséar The manger

Oíche Nollag Christmas Eve

Íosagáin Baby Jesus

crann Nollag Christmas tree

soilse Nollag Christmas lights

pióga mionra Mince pies

ór, túis agus miorr Gold, frankincense and myrhh

Aingil Angel

aoirí Shepherds

na trí rí The Three Kings

athbhliain New year

cuileann Holly

eidhneán Ivy

fear sneachta Snowman

Lá Fhéile Stiofáin St Stephen’s day (Boxing Day in UK)

réinfhia Reindeer

drualas Mistletoe

Hope you got all those!

Anois, tá bliain nua againn agus caithfimid smaoinigh ar rúin na hAthbhliana.

We have a New Year, and we need to think about New Year Resolutions!

An maith leat feabhas a chur ar do chuid Gaeilge an bliain seo?

Would you like to improve your Irish this year?

Tá a lán deiseanna amuigh ansin.

There are many opportunities out there!

Cúpla ceann: Here are a few of them:

Conradh na Gaeilge in Norton’s pub in Digbeth. Join us on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 1pm till 3. All levels, including beginners welcome. ( lars@gaeilge.uk ).

Conversation in The Briar Rose in Birmingham city centre on last Wednesday of the month at 10am. All welcome.

Join a Zoom class (email Sinéad at Birmingham Irish Association for details: sinead@birish.org.uk ).

Duolingo – available free on-line.

Coventry Irish Society (email Caroline at caroline.brogan@covirishsoc.org.uk ).

Lots of online courses available. Try info@allaboutirsh.ie or irishwithmollie@e.kajabimail.net

Listen to RnaG or TG4 – Irish language radio and TV channel.

If you have thoughts on what you would like to see in this little column get in touch with Sinéad at the address above.

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath (See you soon)

Terri

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A Christmas wish from the BIA Board of Trustee’s

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:35:31 GMT

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to offer my sincerest Christmas wishes to Maurice, our management team, staff, volunteers, funders, service users, and every member of our wider BIA family.

We are truly blessed to have such a vibrant team who take great pride in their work, and it is inspiring to witness first hand the impact this has on our community. Thank you to each and every one of you.

This year has been another truly meaningful one for BIA. Our team has continued to reach out with compassion and dedication, supporting our growing community through complex referrals, applications, welfare and health challenges, or simply by being there with a warm, welcoming smile. Thank you for the kindness, resilience, and commitment each of you brings. You make Birmingham Irish Association what it is.

We are also incredibly excited about the opening of the Irish Centre in Kings Heath , which we are proud to now call our new home. The facilities are fantastic, and our shop is now bigger and better stocked than it ever was in Digbeth. It already feels like a place our community can truly be proud of.

Our end of year Toy Appeal is once again in full swing, and we are already overwhelmed by the kindness shown. The generosity of the public is truly second to none.

May this festive season bring you all peace, joy, and moments of rest, and may 2026 be a year filled with hope, good health, and prosperity for you and your loved ones.

Nollaig Shona agus Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you

Joan Smith, Chair of Birmingham Irish Association

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A Christmas wish from the BIA Staff Team

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 13:19:53 GMT

“I would like to wish all our volunteers, clients and their families a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Over the last 12 months I have had the most amazing support from the volunteers and couldn’t do it without the support they give to staff and the clients. I just cannot thank you all enough for your loyalty, support and time.

“A big thank you to all the families of the clients who have been so great in their appreciation of what we all do at the centres. 2025 has been the most memorable and challenging year, sadly we have said a final goodbye to some clients and given a warm welcome to new clients at the centres.

“We have opened the doors on a brand-new centre and look forward to making new memories. The generosity and support everyone has shown over the last 12 months has been second to none.

“Looking forward to seeing you all in 2026.”

Sharon Toy, Dementia Centre Co-ordinator

Messages from other team members:

“Well, here is to another year where Christmas has approached us rather quickly, as we enter the new year in our amazing new premises here is to an exciting 2026. I would just like to take this time to thank everyone that has helped us through this year with their support.

“The staff and volunteers have been second to none. For all the fantastic empathy I have received from BIA during a tough time I am having in my personal life.

“May you all have a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.”

Samantha Ataria, Dementia Support Worker

“We would like to wish all our volunteers a wonderful Christmas and a very happy and healthy New Year. It has been such a busy year with lots of changes that we couldn’t have got through without you all.

“We are so excited for what lies ahead and can’t wait to share it all with you. Thank you for all the help, time, chats and smiles that get us through each day.

“Sending Lots of Love and Blessings”

Catherine Kelly, Front Office Manager and Rosie Pocklington, Financial Enablement Worker

“As the Activities & Wellbeing Coordinator I would like to wish everyone a joyful Christmas and a happy New Year. I hope the festive season brings moments of peace, happiness and cherished moments. May the holidays be a time of rest and rejuvenation.

“I hope the new year is filled with good health, positive experiences and exciting opportunities for personal growth and wellbeing. I look forward to supporting the community with their wellbeing in the new year and engaging them in further opportunities for connection. Thank you to everyone for their participation in activities and their continued support.”

Nollaig shona agus sona bhliain nua!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Ravinder Gill, Activities & Wellbeing Worker

“It’s been another wonderful year for our Dementia Awareness Project. We have loved working with local primary schools to support children that have a Grandparent who is living with Dementia and help to raise awareness and understanding. The children have all been amazing and are an absolute joy to work with, thank you so much to all the schools that we have worked with this year. �� We are excited to continue and develop our Projects in the New Year and reach out to support as many families as possible. We look forward to working with you all again in the new year.

“And what a year we’ve had with the Children’s Emotional Support Project. Work in schools has been very busy, with over 40 children benefiting from one to one or small group sessions supporting their emotional regulation – 2026 is looking set to be just as productive and we can’t wait to bring more support to children across the city.

“We’d like to wish all of the children, their families, teachers and wider community a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2026.”

Claire White, Children’s Emotional Support Worker and Paulene McDermott, Children’s Support Worker

“Thank you to all our incredible volunteers who have supported us this year. Your contribution adds immeasurably to the work we do within the community. It is due to your generosity in giving us your time, skills and patience that we are able to run our services in the way we do.

“From the minute service users enter our dementia centres, join our activity clubs or make use of our office services and shop your smiling faces make them feel welcome. Our service users are made to feel valued through your kindness and understanding. You bring so much happiness to all involved with Birmingham Irish Association and the enthusiasm you display as volunteers is inspirational.

“I wish you all a joyous Christmas and a peaceful 2026.”

Róisín Mason, Volunteer Co-ordinator

“I just want to thank all the amazing clients, volunteers and everyone else who has been involved with BIA this year, it’s been a great year, and we could not have done it without the support from our community. I’m looking forward to 2026 as we settle into our new space at the Irish Centre in Kings Heath.”

Nollaig shona agus bliain nua faoi mhaise duit ☘️��

Emma McGrath, Dementia Support Worker

“2025, what an amazing year it has been here at Birmingham Irish Association and for the Irish community within our amazing City. We are looking forward to announcing more information about Birmingham St Patrick’s Day Parade 2026 very soon (keep an eye on our website and social media pages below for up to date information and announcements).

“Thank you to Jobe from Ceol creatives who has been extraordinary working with children throughout the year teaching them how to play a variety of Irish instruments. Working with Schools and GAA clubs in Birmingham we are bringing back the toy appeal again this year which always gets a truly fantastic response and helps us to put smiles on children’s faces in our local areas for Christmas.

“I am really looking forward to what 2026 has to offer for us all and am wishing you all a very Merry Christmas. Stay safe, look after one another and enjoy all the quality time with loved ones.”

Sinead McTernan, Culture, Sport & Heritage Project Officer

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:19:11 GMT

An Nollaig

Dúshlán na Nollag (A Christmas challenge)

See if you can match up these Irish and English Christmas words:

1. Daidí na Nollag - a. Christmas lights

2. síofraí - b. mince pies

3. Nollaig na mban - c. the manger

4. oíche Nollag - d. Baby Jesus

5. crann Nollag - e. The three kings

6. soilse Nollag - f. angels

7. pióga mionra - g. holly

8. an mainséar - h. gold, frankincense and myrhh

9. Aingil - i. ivy

10. Íosagáin - j. shepherds

11. na trí rí - k. mistletoe

12. ór, túis agus miorr - l. new year

13. aoirí - m. Little/Women’s Christmas

14. cuileann - n. St Stephen’s day

15. drualas - o. elves

16. athbhliain - p. Christmas Eve

17. eidhneán - q. Christmas tree

18. fear sneachta - r. reindeer

19. Lá Fhéile Stiofáin - s. snowman

20. réinfhia - t. Santa Claus

Nollaig shona daoibh, gach aon duine agus athbhliain faoi mhaise!

Terri

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We have officially moved to the Irish Centre, located in Kings Heath

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:07:56 GMT

The grand opening of the new BIA offices was a truly unforgettable occasion, and we are delighted to say it was an incredible success from start to finish.

The energy on the day was full of excitement, pride, and community spirit as visitors explored the newly opened spaces and helped us celebrate this important new chapter. With a fantastic turnout and unwavering support from everyone who attended, the event exceeded all expectations and marked a wonderful beginning for what lies ahead.

The dedication of our staff and volunteers ensured that everything ran smoothly, making the occasion one to remember.

As we continue to grow, we want to ensure the community has clear information about our organisations. The Irish Centre and the Birmingham Irish Association are separate entities, each with its own services, programmes, and responsibilities. While we work alongside one another within the community, we operate independently.

We would also like to clarify that all function room enquiries should be directed to the Irish Centre, and not the Birmingham Irish Association. If you wish to book or enquire about function space, please contact: cath@irishcentrebirmingham.co.uk

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for the grand opening and helped make it such a memorable and positive celebration.

We look forward to welcoming you back for future events and continuing to build a strong, vibrant community together.

Also see related news:

New era as Irish Centre opens at new site www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3vn4yylp0vo

BBC News

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BIA Staff visit to the Irish Embassy in London

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:07:14 GMT

Last month Catherine, the Office Manager and Ravinder, our Activities & Wellbeing Worker for Birmingham Irish Association attended the Emigration Support Programme event at the Embassy of Ireland in London. Both staff members were pleased to have represented Birmingham Irish Association at this event.

Ravinder said; “As the Activities and & Wellbeing Coordinator I was able to network with many other Irish organisations around the country. It was a good opportunity to hear about all the wonderful things that are carried out as part of this programme, and Catherine and I were able to inform others how the Irish people in our community were being helped.”

This was the last time the building will be used for this event because the Embassy will be moving to a new location. Therefore, it was a special occasion being the last two staff members representing Birmingham Irish Association and all the work we do in that beautiful building. It was also a great opportunity to inform everyone about the launch of the Birmingham Irish Association’s new premises.

Other organisations who that carry out similar work got were also able to exchange ideas and stories of how the activities carried out have made a positive impact on the Irish community.

Catherine and Ravinder got to meet, and have some interesting conversations with Ambassador Fraser and Minister Richmond about all the work conducted at Birmingham Irish Association. They were thanked for all that we do and gave a special mention to Birmingham Irish Association and the Birmingham community for all the work that goes on here.

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:06:37 GMT

Haigh a chairde.

Conas atá sibh? (How are you? Munster dialect)

Cad é mar atá sibh? (Ulster dialect)

Cén chaoi a bhfuil sibh? (Connaught dialect)

Note the use of sibh – that is the plural, used when addressing more than one person, often ye or yees in Hiberno-English!

Whichever one you choose to use, you will be understood by an Irish speaker.

Bhuel, tá an Nollaig ag teacht agus caithfimid cártaí Nollag a scríobh.

(Christmas is coming and we must write those Christmas cards).

Impress your family and friends and remind them of our beautiful and precious language, by using a few Irish phrases in your cards this year.

Christmas cards: Cartaí Nollag

The following phrases may be useful. Remember you can send bi-lingual cards to anyone who has no Irish at all.

A simple Happy Christmas is: Nollaig Shona Duit

Here are a few other phrases you might like to use:

Le sonas na féile: season’s greetings
Beannachtaí na Nollag: Christmas blessings (The word beannachtaí is also used to mean greetings)
Guím gach sonas ort sa bhliain 2026: Wishing you every happiness in 2026

You can also just say: Le gach dea-ghuí; With every good wish – a handy one to learn as you can use it on all sorts of occasions, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.

It might also be helpful if you could add more personal phrases.

For example, you might like to address a card to your son, daughter or uncle. Here’s how to do that:

Mo mháthair: my mother
M’athair: my father
Mo thuismitheoirí: my parents
A stóirín: darling
Mo mhac: my son
M’iníon: my daughter
Mo gariníon: my granddaughter
Mo gharmhac: my grandson
M’aintín: my aunt
M’uncail: my uncle
Mo dheartháir: my brother
Mo dheirfiúr: my sister
Mo chara dhíl: my dear friend
Mo chairde: my friends

Note you use M’ instead of Mo when the next word begins with a vowel.

Lean ar aghaidh anois agus scríobh na cartaí sin. (Go ahead now and get those cards written).

Le gach dea-ghuí agus beannachtaí,

Terri

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New Irish shop set to bring a taste of Ireland to Kings Heath

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 21:33:51 GMT

Opening Mid-November: Fitzgerald’s Irish Shop offers everything from Irish dance shoes to traditional confectionery ( Download flyer here )

A vibrant slice of Ireland is coming to Kings Heath this November with the much-anticipated opening of Fitzgerald’s Irish Shop. Set to open its doors in mid-November, the shop promises to be a haven for those with a love for Irish culture, heritage, and traditions.

Located at The Irish Centre, Fitzgerald’s Irish Shop will offer a wide selection of authentic Irish goods—from traditional Irish foods and confectionery to Irish dance shoes and accessories. Whether you’re searching for a gift, preparing for a special occasion, or simply craving a taste of home, Fitzgerald’s aims to provide a warm, welcoming space filled with Irish charm.

The shop will also stock a range of GAA merchandise, O’Neills sportswear, jewellery, and uniquely Irish gifts and homeware. For those marking important milestones, there will be a dedicated collection of baptism, communion, and confirmation gifts, perfect for families celebrating these cherished sacraments. Items are also available for delivery.

“We wanted to bring something truly special to the community,” said a spokesperson for Fitzgerald’s. “Whether you have Irish roots or just an appreciation for the culture, we’re excited to share a little bit of Ireland right here in Kings Heath.”

With its diverse offerings and community-focused spirit, Fitzgerald’s Irish Shop is expected to become a beloved new addition to the New Irish Centre and King’s Heath area.

Fitzgerald’s Irish Shop opens mid-November in Kings Heath – don’t miss your chance to experience the best of Ireland, right on your doorstep.

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Birmingham Irish Association 2025 Annual General Meeting

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 21:30:13 GMT

On Monday, 29th September 2025, the Birmingham Irish Association proudly held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at St Anne’s Hall, welcoming board members, staff, volunteers, and members of the public for an evening of reflection, connection, and planning.

Chair Joan Downton opened the meeting by expressing thanks to everyone involved with the Association over the past year. Chief Executive Maurice Malone then presented the report on key activities and outcomes from 2024–2025, covering areas such as welfare support, cultural programming, community outreach and organisational developments.

Both Joan and Maurice paid tribute to the staff and volunteers whose dedication is central to the Association’s work in serving Birmingham’s Irish community.

St Anne’s Hall provided a welcoming setting for members and guests to engage, share ideas, and look ahead with optimism. The Birmingham Irish Association remains committed to promoting Irish culture, supporting community wellbeing, and nurturing inclusive connections throughout the city.

You can view the official 2025 AGM document, click here

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 21:28:41 GMT

Haigh a chairde.

Conas atá tú? (How are you? - Munster dialect)

Cad é mar atá tú? (Ulster dialect)

Cén chaoi a bhfuil tú? (Connaught dialect)

Whichever one you choose to use, you will be understood by an Irish speaker.

Tá Oíche Shamhna ag teacht go luath – Halloween is coming soon.

Mí na Samhna - the month of November, so Halloween is the eve of November, based on an ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain. It was celebrated by the ancient Celts to mark the end of summer and the fruits of Autumn.

They believed that on the night of the 31 October, Halloween, the line between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred, so ghosts could cross into this world. To protect themselves they used light, mainly bonfires, and disguised themselves, often as animals, to scare away the evil spirits.

Today Halloween is celebrated all over the world, taken abroad by the Irish as they travelled.

Here are a few key words and phrases for Halloween:

cailleach gránna – an ugly witch
masc caillí – witch’s mask
púicín - blindfold
gléasta suas – dressed up
hata biorach dubh – pointed black hat
crann scuaibe – broomstick
úlla – apples
cnónna – nuts
milseáin – sweets
bairín breac – barm brack
fáinne – ring
taibhse – ghost
scannán uafás – horror film
ag insint scéalta – telling stories
eagla an domhain – very frightened
brionglóid – dream
tromluí – nightmare

Here’s a little Halloween poem/song. Have a go at translating it!

Oíche Shamhna a bhí ann.
Chnag sí ar an doras.
Cailleach gránna
Ag caitheamh hata biorach.
Bhí cat ina lámh aici
Is scuab ar an talamh
Agus seo a chan sí dom:
Oíche Shamhna shona duit
Tabhair dom bainne do mo chat.
B’fhearr liom féin píosa bairín breac
Is cnónna moncaí leis.
Bain sult as an oíche – enjoy the night!

Beir bua,

Terri

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Congratulations to Keely and Katie on their Big Half Marathon run

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:08:30 GMT

We are still in Awe of Keely & and Katie!

On Sunday 7 September our amazing Keely Tattersfield and her daughter Katie crossed the finish line of the Big Half Marathon – and we’re still buzzing with pride! ��‍♀️��

Their incredible effort was all in support of the Irish Youth Foundation, and we couldn’t be more inspired by their dedication, spirit, and all the hard work that went into training for the big day. ��

From everyone here at Birmingham Irish Association we would like to send a huge congratulations to both Keely and Katie on this fantastic achievement!

“I am delighted to have completed this incredible challenge, it was a really warm day to run in but the atmosphere and knowing the amount of money we had raised kept us going! I am especially proud of Katie who had never run until a year ago and now shes done a half marathon! She done fantastically.”

Keely Tattersfield

You’ve done yourselves – and all of us – proud. ✨��

If you would still like to make a donation, click here

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Birmingham Irish Association brings the brand new Irish Village to Pairc Summer Series

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:08:26 GMT

The dust has settled… What a weekend! We are proud to announce that Birmingham Irish Association brought a brand new Irish Village to the incredible Páirc Summer Series, and we’re still buzzing from it!

From the smell of fresh soda bread to the sound of trad music echoing through the festival grounds, we packed a lot into one unforgettable weekend such as :

Live soda bread making sessions
Accordion, tin whistle & bodhrán workshops
Irish language taster classes
Trad sessions in our lively trad tent
GAA shoot-out competition
Official O’Neills jerseys for sale
Irish sausage baps & traditional food and drink all weekend long

From everyone here at Birmingham Irish Association we would like to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who made this possible:

�� The Páirc Summer Series team – thank you for believing in the Irish Village and giving us the platform to showcase our culture.

�� Jobe & Aida from Ceol Creatives – your energy brought the trad tent to life and made it a true highlight.

��️ Terri, Caroline & Marian – thank you for sharing the beauty of the Irish language with so many curious learners.

�� Bridget & Tracey – your soda bread workshops were a massive hit and smelled (and tasted!) amazing.

�� Georgina Moseley – thank you for visiting the Irish Village and representing Help Harry Help Others, spreading important awareness within the Irish community.

�� To our incredible BIA staff and volunteers – your dedication from setup to takedown made this entire experience possible. We couldn’t have done it without you.

This weekend was more than an event — it was a celebration of Irish culture, community, and connection. We’re proud to have shared a piece of Ireland with you all.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh!

Until next time…

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:08:16 GMT

Hi a chairde, Tá súil agam gur bhain sibh taitneamh as na laethanta saoire (I hope you enjoyed the holidays).

An mhí seo beimid ag feiceáil ar frásaí úsáideach.

(This month we’ll be looking at useful phrases).

These are phrases you might find useful to respond to someone, to comment briefly, to fill gaps, to encourage someone else to carry on with their story.

That’s interesting: Tá sé sin suimiúil
That’s funny: Sin greannnmhar (Tá sé sin=that is, but is often shortened to just sin in speech.)
That’s weird: Sin ait
It’s a shame/pity: Is mór an trua é (trua=pity)
Without a doubt: Gan amhras
Unbelievable: Dochreidte
No way! Seans ar bith!
Of course: Ar ndóigh
I agree: Aontaím leat
I see: Tuigim
Exactly: Go díreach
Really/seriously? I ndáiríre?
Is that so? An mar sin é?
Sure: cinnte
Maybe: B’fhéidir
It doesn’t matter: Is cuma
I don’t care about/I’m not bothered: Is cuma liom

And here are a few phrases that will help your Irish flow like that of a Gaelgeoir!!

By the way: Dála an scéal
Actually: Mar a tharlaíonn
To tell the truth: Chun an fhírinne a rá
In any case: Ar aon nós
Would you believe? An gcreidfeá?
On the other hand: Ar an lámh eile
sin sin: That’s that
OK: Ceart go leor

Remember, if you are struggling with pronunciation, try abair.ie which will tell you how the word is pronounced in the three main dialects.

Better still, come along to Norton’s in Digbeth on the second Sunday of the month at 1pm and meet others, at all levels of Irish, who will make you very welcome!

Le gach dea-ghuí,

Terri

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John Mulry completes the run for our minibus appeal

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 15:01:58 GMT

Our minibus driver, John, has been part of the Birmingham Irish Association family since January 2025.

John’s role is to pick up the service users of the Dementia Centres and take them to their selected centre. John is a huge personality and always makes sure to entertain the service users during the drive to the centre. Once arriving to the centre John gets involved and helps out with the activities.

John is a great asset to our team he puts a smile on everyone’s face each day. ��

Unfortunately, our minibus has been in the garage and requires quite a lot a work which has left John with no bus and he has been unable to pick anyone up.

This is when John decided to run the Solihull Half Marathon with the aim of any sponsorship helping towards the cost of the repairs and the ongoing maintenance of the bus. By doing so, we can continue to provide our much loved and needed service to those living with Dementia within our community.

The generosity of our community towards this fundraiser has been amazing and we are hugely thankful to everyone who has donated and supported John and our minibus.

There is still time to donate to this fundraiser, any donations would be most welcome ( click here )

Once again, a massive THANK YOU and CONGRATULATIONS go to our amazing John Mulry.

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Welcome Ravinder Gill to the Birmingham Irish Assoc team

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 15:00:10 GMT

Today we are delighted to introduce our newest staff member to you all.

"My name is Ravinder Gill, and I am the Activities and & Wellbeing Worker for Birmingham Irish Association. I was born in Cork to Indian parents who had moved to Cork from India. I love to help out when I can with the Irish community and was already volunteering in the passport office at BIA before applying for this job as well as being part of the rambler’s group. I have also shared my story on being an Irish woman and was mentioned in the Irish post for having my story told.

“I chose to work at BIA because of my own connection with Ireland and building on that connection as well as providing a service to the Irish community. I was asked by the service users to apply for the job as they already knew me and I was delighted to be accepted and be a part of the BIA family.

“They are all lovely and very friendly and everyone has been very supportive.

I am really enjoying my role because I get to be involved in many different activities and different areas that all benefit from an activity to boost their confidence and help their wellbeing.

“I am looking forward to connecting with more Irish organisations and the community within my role and being involved in as much activities as I can to be able to support the Irish community.”

Fun fact: ‘I love to help out disability tennis tournaments and recently helped out at the Blind and Visually Impaired Tennis games in Wimbledon and in Dublin.’

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John’s run for our minibus

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:32:28 GMT

Our minibus driver John Mulry joined the Birmingham Irish Association (BIA) family as an employee in January this year.

John has been a great asset to the Birmingham Irish team and especially to the Dementia Centres. He has built good relationships with those he supports, and everyone has a smile on their face when he is around.

Please be sure to wish John all the best in his run, and we thank him wholeheartedly for running for our bus.

John's run will take place on Sunday 10th August 2025

“Good Luck John – From everyone here at Birmingham Irish Association”

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Pairc Summer Series 2025

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:28:41 GMT

This is your chance to grab Pairc Summer Series tickets. If you're planning to join us at the UK's biggest celebration of Irish music and culture, now’s the perfect time to book.

Secure your place with just a £30 deposit and spread the rest over further payments with our 2025 weekend payment plan.

Check out our full ticket tier pricing structure for 2025 - book today and save. ( click here )

To read more about the Birmingham Irish Association's involvement with the festival visit www.paircsummerseries.com/brand-new-area-announced-with-birmingham-the-irish-association

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:27:24 GMT

Let’s focus on describing ourselves and our family/friends this month.

Ar dtús (first) here are some useful adjectives when you want to say something positive!

Taclaí – fit
ard – tall
beag – small
cainteach – chatty
spraíúil – fun-loving
ionraic – honest
flaithiúil – generous
láidir – strong
díograiseach – hardworking/devoted
greannmhar – funny
cneasta – kind
tanaí - slim

And now for the more negative traits!

ceanndána – stubborn
gránna – ugly
leadránach – boring
uafásach – mean/horrible
lag – weak
bocht – poor
míchineálta – unkind
leithleasach – selfish

Here is how we can put this into sentences:

Is fear aclaí é. – He is a fit man.

Is cailín cainteach í. She is a chatty girl.

Is duine cairdiúil mé. I am a friendly person.

Ní duine cneasta é. He is not a kind person.

An duine ceanndána é? Is he a stubborn person?

Now try the following exercise :

Complete the words and write the English translation alongside:

Is duine t - - - í mé

Is fear a - - é

Is cailín i - nr - - - í

is duine - - g mé

Ní duine cn - - - t - é

Now match these up correctly:

Ard. Strong

Laidir. Poor

Cneasta . Small

Gránna. Stubborn

Bocht. Horrible

Uafásach. Tall

Beag. Kind

Ceanndána. Ugly

We will have a break in August. Bain sult as (enjoy) an Lúnasa (August) agus ná déan dearmaid (don’t forget) ar do Ghaeilge! Beimid ar ais i Meán Fómhair (We’ll be back in September).

Slán go fóill ,

Terri

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Volunteers Week 2025

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:41:47 GMT

Volunteers Week took place between – 2nd to 8th June 2025.

Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers!

If you would like to know about volunteering opportunities available, please contact our Volunteer Co-ordinator via email: roisin@birish.org.uk

To find more about the work that we do, visit www.birish.org.uk/getting-help

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Outreach Music Project Update

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:41:36 GMT

A core group has been created with thanks to Jobe Sullivan running our Birmingham Irish Association Outreach Music Project, operating permanently in the Abbey Primary School and Bishop Challoner, as well as many one-off workshops happening across the city.

Various guest teachers, Max Gittings, Dominic O’Sullivan and Vicky Ayers have inspired young minds in both of these establishments, but it is predominantly Jobe Sullivan who heads the ‘curriculum’ for the Birmingham Irish Association.

Jobe teaches Mandolin and Tenor Banjo, Bodhran, Piano-Accordion at Bishop Challoner in small groups, and teaches 2 full classes on Tin Whistle and Bodhran every week, as well as running a lunchtime club which encourages piano-accordion.

“What the Birmingham Irish Association has done by investing in instruments and teaching time is incredible, and full kudos to them! We’re also so thankful for the various donations that have come about - the furthest so far arrived from Spain, a pack of Tin Whistles donated by Dave Bardoi, residing there and keeping the Irish Music Tradition alive, who adored the project when he saw a post on Facebook”, said Jobe.

Bishop Challoner has also recently become host to the Birmingham Comhaltas lessons, every Thursday at 7pm, which Jobe finds as a fantastic after-school group for his own students who are learning during school hours with him.

Dr James Coughlan is Principal of Bishop Challoner School. "Bishop Challoner has always championed the creative’s arts, and I'm so proud of what the Birmingham Irish Association have achieved in the school. Jobe integrates and welcomes all our students, and we've even started an informal after school band for teachers! He is an exceptional multi-instrumentalist and most importantly, a gifted teacher.

“The past couple of years have been incredible, playing for the Deputy Ambassador of Ireland, and teaming up with Comhaltas Birmingham to create a piece of music for the Pub Bombings Memorial. To know that our students have performed in front of a member of the royal family, and have been broadcast on the BBC, is such an amazing feeling as a Principal. I couldn't feel more proud of my students, staff and the Birmingham Irish Association.

“Our band also played at St Anne's during parade week for their special St Patrick's dinner as a form of musical giving to the community. We are indebted to Jobe and the Birmingham Irish Association for inspiring so many of our young people and staff to engage in music."

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:41:22 GMT

Hi a Chairde. Tá súil agam go bhfuil sibh go maith.

Summer Reading: Léitheoireacht an tSamhraidh

Tá mé ag léamh leabhar iontach faoi láthair (I am reading a great book at the moment).

Tá sé scríofa as Bearla, ach tá smearadh Gaeilge ann freisin.

(It is written in English (Béarla) but there is a sprinkling of Irish in there as well).

Teidil (title): Beidh tú Alright by Joe McHugh. It’s about his Irish language journey (aistear teanga). Joe became Minister for the Gaeltacht in 2014, which meant he had a ministerial responsibility for the Irish Language. His command of Irish was poor at the time, so his appointment was controversial! People who cared about the language chanted: Aire gan teanga, Aire gan clue. (A minister without the language is a minister without a clue).

But Joe took the bull by the horns and set out to become fluent (líofa) as Gaeilge. The book is all about the ups and downs of his language journey and is a delightful read for anyone with the slightest interest in the Irish Language.

He begins each chapter with a seanfhocal (old saying) or an interesting phrase,

such as:

Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine (We live in each other’s shadows)
Is fearr lúbadh ná briseadh (Better to bend than break)
Ní bhíonn saoi gan locht (Nobody is perfect)
Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin (There is no place like home) Seachnaíonn súil ní nach bhfeiceann (The eye avoids what it doesn’t see)

He also includes a short list of interesting words/phrases at the end of each chapter, to encourage you to extend your vocabulary!

Here are a few of my favourites:

Draíochtúil – magical
Náire – shame
Tiocfaidh mo lá (pronounced chucky) – My day will come
Smugairle rón – jellyfish (literally, snot of the seal)
Ordóg suas – thumbs up
Tóg go bog é – take it easy

His final chapter is called, Seven steps to Speaking Gaeilge Fluently.

For that alone it’s worth a read!

Ceannaigh é, leigh é agus bain sult as - buy it, read it, enjoy it!

Go dtí an chéad am eile – until next time,

Terri

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Birmingham Irish Association Health Day Event -April 2025

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:55:42 GMT

The Birmingham Irish Health Day Event took place on Tuesday 22nd April 2025.

The members of the Tuesday club were brilliant, interacting with the agencies and seeing what support was available to them.

We would like to thank the organisations above for attending our health event and offering the great advice and support to our members. We would also like to thank the Tuesday club members for being so welcoming to all the organisations that attended.

We would also like to thank our Health Enablement team, Emma McGrath and Bernie Walsh, for organising and hosting such a successful event within the Tuesday Club.

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Pairc 2025 Confirms New Partnership with The Birmingham Irish Association

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 21 May 2025 08:55:37 GMT

Páirc Summer Series returns to Birmingham this August Bank Holiday Weekend, with brand new features provided in partnership with the Birmingham Irish Association.

Páirc Summer Series, the UK's biggest celebration of Irish music and culture, is thrilled to announce its brand new partnership with the Birmingham-Irish association; the Midlands' leading charity providing support and cultural services to the Irish community. Their community engagement and outreach covers everything from Social Inclusion, Elders & Dementia Care, and Family Support to Passport Help, Emotional Support (and Mental Wellbeing), and of course, the encouragement and promotion of Irish Culture and Heritage Events .

So what does this mean for Pairc Summer Series? It means the inclusion of the all-new Irish Village hosted by our friends at the Birmingham-Irish association. You’ll find this at the festival grounds positioned underneath stretch tents, tipis, and marquees and will include:

Traditional Irish music stage with live performances
Soda bread making and Irish cookery classes
Irish music workshops; learn the tin whistle, bodhrán and more
All Things Irish shop - the iconic flavours of Ireland
Interactive GAA sports (hurling, camogie, Gaelic football, Gaelic handball)
Irish language tent

Attendees can also enjoy the festival’s own street food offerings, traditional Irish dancing, market stalls featuring local makers and Irish produce, outdoor bars, beer tents, and access to select after parties.

Tickets for Páirc Summer Series are available now on the festival website ( www.paircsummerseries.com/buy-tickets ) with weekend payment plans starting from as little as £30 deposit. Tickets for Saturday, Sunday, Weekend and VIP options are also on sale from as little as £47 (adult).

For more general information about Páirc Summer Series please visit www.paircsummerseries.com or follow on social media @paircsummerseries

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 21 May 2025 08:55:29 GMT

Cúpla Focal - Bealtaine 2025.

Hi a Chairde. Tá súil agam go bhfuil sibh ag baint taitneamh as an aimsir deas! (I hope you are all enjoying the lovely weather!)

An mhí seo (Bealtaine – May) I’d like to update you on classes in Irish (ranganna Gaeilge) that will be available to you in Autumn (san Fhómhar).

You will be pleased to know that we now have our own branch of Conradh na Gaeilge (The Irish League) here in Birmingham. This is an association that promotes the Irish language and has branches all over the world. The group meets monthly in Norton’s pub in Digbeth.

Learn Irish Now

Conradh na Gaeilge Birmingham is offering two new Irish courses starting in October. These courses provide a unique and flexible mix of monthly in-person classes, video tutorials, custom-made printed resources and interactive online tasks. There is also a WhatsApp group for asking questions and socialising with other course participants and teachers. Learn Irish in a supportive community environment with expert guidance.

The two courses follow the TEG (Teastas Eorpach na Gaeilge) curriculum and prepare learners for the TEG A1 exam.

(The exam, however, is optional – no one is expected to sit an exam unless they want to!)

The course uses a flipped learning approach:

Participants learn new words and grammar at their own pace through video tutorials, scripts and other resources. This knowledge is then reinforced in the in-person classes.

Classes: October to July, every first Saturday of the month from 10am to 1pm at the Fusion Centre, Digbeth.

Levels: Absolute beginners (Learn Irish Now A1.1) and post-beginners (A1.2)

Cost: £150 for the whole course (includes all resources and classes)

The courses are perfect for learners looking for structured yet flexible language learning.

For further information or to express an interest in the courses, contact Lars Kabel, R-Phost (e-mail) : lars@gaeilge.uk or visit: www.gaeilge.uk/learning-irish

Feicfidh me sibh an mhí seo chugainn – (see you next month) with more hints on learning Irish!

Beir bua,

Terri

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Meet our team! BIA Dementia Centre Co-ordinator, Sharon Toy

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 08:15:37 GMT

“I had worked in sheltered housing for over 10 years and felt it was time for a new adventure, I had worked closely with BIA through my role as a Scheme Manager and liked their ethos.

"My nan had sadly died with dementia and knew the challenges families faced caring for a loved one who are living with dementia. I was informed about the role as a dementia support worker and felt that it would be the perfect role for me as I wanted to offer support, guidance and help families have a much-needed break for a few hours per day as I knew first-hand just how much that’s needed.

"The centres are such a Friendly welcoming place where everyone is made to feel special. Everyone who comes through the door each day are happy to be there and always leaves with a smile on their face.

"I was promoted to the Dementia Centre Coordinator over two years ago and now my role is to oversee all the day-to-day running of the centres and manage staff.”

“I can truthfully say I get so much job satisfaction and it’s so rewarding just seeing all those happy faces each day and knowing what a difference the centres make to each client’s and their family members wellbeing. I have defiantly found my vocation in life. I never have the Monday blues as I always look forward to going to the centre to see everyone. All the volunteers that support during the week are amazing and without their support and dedication the centres wouldn’t be able to run as smoothly as they do.

“If anyone knows someone who is living with dementia and would benefit from attending one of our centres, they can contact me direct or call the main office for more information.”

Sharon Toy

“Sharon is so wonderful with all our clients at the centres. She treats them like family. She is so Kind, Caring and passionate about her work with Birmingham Irish Association. She is a great Manager and friend to not only myself but everyone around.” – Samantha Ataria (Dementia Support Worker)

"Sharon does an amazing job running all of the dementia centres and is always coming up with new activities and incorporating world events that we can celebrate with the clients. She always has a smile on her face and is lovely to work with. She’s a wonderful asset to the Birmingham Irish team, keep up the great work!" – Emma McGrath (Health Enablement Team)

“Since Sharon has taken up the role as Dementia Centre Coordinator I have been lucky enough to work very closely with her over the years. Sharon is extremely organised, a lot of people do not see the hard work that goes into running the centres every day. We would be having an Easter party and she will be thinking of activities and decorations to sort out for our Christmas parties (she really is always thinking ahead).

Sharon is a people person, she will always help; make time and care for everyone around her. Currently running Dementia centres across the whole of Birmingham, we are so lucky to have Sharon. It is a pleasure to work with such a wonderful person.” – Sinead McTernan (Culture, Sport & Heritage Project Officer)

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Happy belated Easter from everyone at Birmingham Irish Association

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 19 Apr 2025 08:14:42 GMT

On behalf of all at Birmingham Irish Association, we would like to extend to you all a very Happy belated Easter.

To mark this very special occasion, we celebrated throughout the Association with various parties and activities .

We would also like to extend a huge thank you to Central blues supporters who as a group, have collected over 900 Easter Eggs for the Easter egg appeal.

The eggs have gone to The Children’s Hospital, a variety of Schools in the local area, Birmingham Irish Association and families across the City that are in need. This appeal has helped so many, and we are so lucky to have such kind, generous people in our community willing to help others.

To find out more about our Dementia Centre's, please email our Dementia Centre Co-ordinator, Sharon Toy via sharon@birish.org.uk.

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:14:07 GMT

Hi a Chairde,

Tá súil agam go bhfuil sibh go maith.

An mhí seo (this month) I’d like to talk about social occasions, meeting people, asking someone to meet for dinner, etc.

Here is the conversation you might have:

Síle: Dia duit a Pheadair. Conas ata tú? (Hello Peter. How are you?)

Peadar: Dia is Muire duit a Shíle. Táim go breá. Agus tú féin? (Hello Sheila. I’m fine. And yourself?)

Síle: Táim ceart go leor, go raibhb maith agat. Cogar, an bhfuil tú saor oíche amárach? (I’m Ok, thanks. Listen, are you free tomorrow night?)

Peadar: Táim. Cén fáth? (I am. Why?)

Síle: Ar mhaith leat teacht le haghaidh dinnéar liom? (Would you like to come out to dinner with me?)

Peadar: Ba bhreá liom. (I’d love to)

Síle: Tá bialann Indiach nua i lár na cathrach. Chuala mé go raibh sé go hiontach. (There’s a new Indian restaurant in the city centre. I heard it is excellent.)

Peadar: Is breá liom bia Indiach! (I love Indian food!)

Síle: Cuirfidh mé bord in áirithe mar sin. Ag a seacht? (I’ll book a table, so. At seven?)

Peadar: Go hiontach ar fad! Feicfidh mé amárach thú ag a seacht a chlog. (That’s really great. I’ll see you tomorrow at seven o’clock.)

Try reading the conversation aloud, with a partner if you can! Do it a few times so the phrases become familiar.

Here are a few more phrases to learn:

Cén t-am? (What time?)
Ag a ceathar a chlog (At four o’clock)
Bia Francach (French food)
Bia Iodálach (Italian food)
Bia Síneach (Chinese food)
Tá bróm orm ach níl mé saor amárach (I’m sorry but I’m not free tomorrow)

By the way, If there are any beginners in the Birmingham area who would like to learn Irish, a new class will be starting up in Autumn. There will be a live class in the city once a month, with a study guide on-line and a back-up service. This course is being provided bu Conradh na Gaeilge Birmingham. If you are interested, contact www.gaeilge.uk or courses@gaeilge.uk

Alternatively, come along to Norton’s in Digbeth on the second Sunday of the month, every month! From 1pm to 3pm join other speakers and learners in an Irish language session, followed by seisiún ceol tradisiúnta (traditional music session) from 3pm to 5pm. It’s a very friendly group and everyone is made welcome. Ask for Lars to hear all about the beginners’ course!

Beir bua, Terri

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Meet our team! BIA Minibus Driver, John Mulry

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 10:18:33 GMT

We would like to welcome to the team our Minibus Driver - John Mulry �� ☘

“I was christened John but all my family call me Sean. Must have been an Irish thing! My Wife has been a volunteer at Birmingham Irish Association for many years and was always telling me how much she enjoys it so I decided to join her as a volunteer. I have now ended up getting a job as the minibus driver”

John Mulry

John heads out in our minibus to collect our service users in the mornings, arriving safely to one of our Dementia centres across the City. After a fun activity packed day John collects our service users from the centre making sure everyone arrives back home safely.

“John has fitted in really well and is a great asset to BIA. He is really helpful and friendly with the clients / volunteers and staff. Everyone has a great giggle when he is around telling his dad jokes. John joins in with all the activities and likes a sing song.” – Sharon Toy (Dementia Centre Co – Ordinator)

John is an amazing burst of energy making sure everyone on board has a sing song along to their favourite Irish songs during the journey ��

Thank you for joining the team John! We are delighted to have you ☘

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St Brigid’s Day Celebrations at Birmingham Irish

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 10:18:21 GMT

Here at Birmingham Irish we have always marked St Brigid’s Day within our organisation.

On the lead up to February 1st (The feast day of St Brigid) we celebrated in many ways during the week.

We started the day off with an Irish tradition, a slice of barmbrack and a lovely cup of tea ☕

Our celebrations consisted of the group getting a step by step guide from our wonderful Dementia Centre Co – Ordinator Sharon showing everyone how to make their very own St Brigid's crosses. During this demonstration and activity the Staff, Volunteers and Service users had a great giggle together which was great to see.

The group also watched a video all about the story of St Brigid, this allowed everyone to then fill in the blanks of the story and also complete a quiz which was great fun.

Everyone had Colcannon for lunch a traditional Irish dish which certainly went down a treat.

To celebrate special and admirable women in our lives, we also made cards to an inspirational woman in our life which was very special and all service users were able to take them home to their family’s ✨ Everyone had a fantastic day!

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 10:17:07 GMT

Dia daoibh a chairde.

Faoi láthair tá mé ag tabhairt aire do mhadra mo neacht i gConamara.

This week I am dog-minding in Connemara, so I thought I would tell you how to talk about your pets and your favourite animals.

Madra – dog. A working dog would be known as a gadhar (pronounced guy-er). You may also have heard the word cú (pronounced coo) – which is a hound. A puppy is a coileán (pronounced quill-awn) and a guide-dog i a madra treorach.

Cat – cat (Looks the same but is pronounced cuth) A kitten is a puisín! (pronounced pusheen)

luch – mouse (prounced luck) and a rat is a francach (Also the word for a French person when spelt with a capital letter!!)

Iasc óir - gold fish (pronounced eesk ore)

Muc ghuine – guinea pig

coinín – rabbit (pronounced qwineen)

Nathair – snake

Hamstar – hamster

Éan – bird. Is fearr breac sa láimh ná bradán sa linn (A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush). However, the irish litereally means, A trout in the hand is better than a salmon in the pool.

Laghairt – lizard

An bhfuil peata agat? Do you have a pet?

Tá/Níl - yes/no

Cén t-ainm atá air/uirthi? What’s his/her name?

Oisín is ainm dó. Salí is ainm di. Oisín/Sally is his/her name

An maith leat madraí? Do you like dogs?

Is maith/ní maith – yes/no

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath – See you soon!
Terri

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Announcement: Postponement of the Birmingham St. Patrick’s Parade 2025

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 12:39:05 GMT

Statement From the Organising Team

The team behind Birmingham St. Patrick’s Parade has issued the following statement regarding the postponement of the upcoming parade, originally scheduled to take place on Sunday, 16th March 2025 , in Digbeth.

Maurice Malone, Chief Executive at Birmingham Irish Association and head of the Parade organising team, said:

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the postponement of the St. Patrick's Parade, scheduled to take place on Sunday, 16th March 2025 , in Digbeth. This decision has not been made lightly, and we deeply regret any disappointment this may cause to our incredible community, participants, and supporters.

"Our primary goal has always been to deliver a safe, enjoyable, and memorable parade that celebrates the vibrant Irish community in Birmingham. Year after year, thousands of you have joined us, rain or shine, to show your support and share in the joy of this cherished tradition. For that, we are immensely grateful.

"However, safety is paramount , and as organisers, we are not prepared to compromise on this fundamental principle. Despite countless hours of planning and the unwavering dedication of our volunteers, partners, and supporters, the gap between what we can deliver with the resources and finances available and the requirements to host a safe and successful parade has proven too wide to bridge at this time.

"We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event possible, including:

Our incredible volunteers, whose passion and commitment inspire us every day.
West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council, for their invaluable support and guidance.
The many partners and sponsors who have stood by us during this challenging process.

"While this decision is undoubtedly disappointing, please know that we are already working on plans to ensure the St. Patrick's Festival remains a vibrant and cherished celebration in our community. We are committed to keeping the celebration of the parade alive in our city and look forward to celebrating with you all in the near future.

"Thank you for your understanding, patience, and continued support. Together, we will keep the spirit of the Irish community alive in Birmingham."

For more information about how you can support the St. Patrick’s Parade in Birmingham, please follow our social media pages:

Twitter - @stpatparadebham
Facebook - St Patrick’s Festival Birmingham
Instagram - @stpatsfest

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Birmingham Irish Association Health Day Event – Jan 2025

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 12:38:06 GMT

On Tuesday 28th January, our Health enablement team hosted a ‘Health Day Event’ within the Tuesday club.

Representatives from agencies we work alongside to support our community were in attendance this included:

- Carers at Heart

- Act on Energy

- Age UK Birmingham & Sandwell

The Tuesday club had over 70 attendees who were very interested and engaged when speaking to the other agencies. It was amazing for the members to access valuable information and support.

Several members have already signed up to attend a digital awareness session with Age UK which we will be hosting soon, more details to follow.

This was another very successful Health event, with lots of positive feedback from the attendees. We would like to say a huge thank you to our Health Enablement staff Emma & Bernie for organising this great event. Also a huge thank you to all the agencies that made this day possible and provided such a great amount of information and support.

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 12:34:53 GMT

Cúpla Focal as Gaeilge for St Patrick’s Day

The Irish language is so rich in wonderful sayings it is difficult to choose. In honour of the St Patrick’s festival which will be with us soon, I have decided to share with you a selection of the many curses and blessings available to you in the Irish language.

Try them out on your friends – and enemies! – but bí cúramach! (be careful!) and accompany them with a smile!

Mallachtaí – curses or insults:

Go dtachta an diabhal ort – May the devil choke you
Loscadh agus dó ort – Scorching and burning on you
Briseadh agus brú ort – strife and stress on you
Bó-leagadh ort – May your cow herd vanish
Dearg stampaí ort – May you only have mashed potatoes to eat
Béal mór ar do bhothán – May your home have no doors
Go n-ithe an cat thú agus go n-ithe an diabhal an cat – May the cat eat you and may the devil eat the cat
Gur fail muice do thíos – May you live in a pigsty
Pian sa tóin amach is amach é – He’s an out and out pain in the behind
Buinneach bhuí ort – May you have yellow diarrhoea
Go n-ithe an chráin mhíolach thú – May the louse-infected sow eat you

And worst of all in many eyes:

Mallacht Chromaill ort - The curse of Cromwell on you

If you have any friends left after all that cursing, try a few beannachtaí - blessings:

Gob fliuch agus bás in Éirinn. Use this one as a toast - a good one for those of us who are part of the Irish diaspora. It means – may you have a wet mouth (something to drink) and may you die in Ireland

And while you’re having that drink, another way of sayings cheers would be:

Sláinte agus fad saol agaibh - Health and a long life to you

To those people you only meet maybe once a year:

Go mbeirimid beo ag an am seo arís. - May we live to meet here again next year)
Nár chuire Dia riamh i mbéal an chuain thú gan farraige fháilteach. – May God never leave you without a lifeline
Go dtuga Dia deoch dhuit as an dtobar ná tránn. - May God give you a drink from the well that never dries
Go mairir is go gcaithfir – May you live to enjoy it (A new hat, for example)
Nár laga Dia do lámh – May God never weaken your hand
Céill’ gan shrann, gan chaille, gan bheann agat – May you have a partner that doesn’t snore or isn’t a loser or a worrier
Comhairle na dea-mhná agat - May you have the advice of a good woman

Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig!!

Happy St Patrick’s Day!
Terri

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Birmingham Irish Association 2024 Christmas Toy Appeal

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 01:38:27 GMT

In December 2024 we reintroduced the Birmingham Irish Association Toy Appeal with the aim of supporting our wonderful community again.

The toy appeal was created to focus on helping individuals and families who were struggling at Christmas due to the cost of living crisis.

There has been a consistent support for our toy appeals throughout the years from the local schools around Birmingham and the GAA clubs as well as members of our community.

We are pleased to announce that the 2024 Toy Appeal has been a huge success after the organisation received an outstanding donation of toys again this year. We are always very taken back by the kindness of people at such a costly time of year.

The response to our organisation’s appeals are always amazing but this year with the crisis affecting even more people in our community it has touched our hearts to see the generosity and kindness that has been shown.

We would like to give a special mention to Eddie O’Connor and Bishop Challoner Catholic College with whose support made this appeal possible. The school opened their doors every day and collected the donations, sorted through selected toys for families who were in contact with us and also helped with delivering the toys to the affected families in time for Christmas.

There is a lot of time, organisation and passion that goes into a project like this and we cannot thank Eddie, the students, teachers and parents enough for supporting us every step of the way.

We hope there were a lot of smiles on Christmas day, which would not be possible without the continued support and outstanding toy donations we receive each year.

The Staff and Trustee’s at Birmingham Irish Association are truly grateful to everyone who has got involved, had amazing community spirit and made a difference to a child’s Christmas.

"The volume of toys donated was a clear sign of the incredible Birmingham community spirit. The Coming together of households, schools, GAA clubs, businesses and establishments across the city, at a time of great need for many families who faced real challenges of providing food for their loved ones and heating the home.

"Children are entitled to smile, especially at Christmas time.

The combination of efforts brought many smiles into homes this Christmas. On behalf of the Birmingham Irish Association, we would like to thank everyone for supporting this incredible charity."

Eddie O’Connor (Trustee of Birmingham Irish Association)

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The Birmingham St Patrick’s Day Parade 2025

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 01:37:37 GMT

Important Notice

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the postponement of the St. Patrick's Parade, scheduled to take place on Sunday, 16th March, in Digbeth.

Read statement here

It is that time of year again… The St Patrick’s Day Parade 2025 is back. This year it is going to be even bigger and better.

IT’S COMING HOME!

We are delighted to announce that our much loved St Patrick's Parade will be returning to its traditional route for 2025.

Last year’s parade was the first back since Covid and following the feedback from those who attended we are bringing it back to Digbeth High Street.

The High Street has undergone an extensive redevelopment and we hope it will now provide larger and safer viewing areas along the length of the route for everyone to enjoy.

The success of the parade is built on those who come along and support it, so hopefully we will see you all there.

The date of the parade will be Sunday 16th March 2025

from 12:00pm - 2:00pm

(Please arrive early to secure a great viewing spot along the route)

Registration for all walking groups and floats can be submitted here - www.stpatsparade.co.uk/registration

Lots of new and exciting information will also follow with details of how to support and get involved with your much loved parade.

Email sinead@birish.org.uk for all parade enquiries.

For all updates follow our St Patrick’s Parade social media pages:

Twitter - @stpatparadebham
Facebook - St Patrick’s Festival Birmingham
Instagram - @stpatsfest

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Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 01:36:45 GMT

Cúpla Focal – Mí Eanáir 2025

Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh a chairde! – Happy New Year to you all!

Tá súil agam go raibh Nollaig sona agaibh. (I hope you had a happy Christmas).

Ta súil agam – I hope, or literally, I have an eye to.

Tús maith leath na hoibre - A good start is half the work. An apt seanfhocal (saying) for the New Year

A New Year Resolution would be: rún na hathbhliana.

Tá súil agam (I hope) you will make a resolution to increase your knowledge of An Ghaeilge this year.

Let’s start with the months:

Eanáir : Mí Eanáir – January

Feabhra : Mí Feabhra – February

Márta : Mí an Mhárta – March

Aibreán : Mí Aibreáin - April

Bealtaine : Mí na Bealtaine – May

Meitheamh : Mí an Mheithimh – June

Iúil : Mí Iúil – July

Lúnasa : Mí Lúnasa – August

Meán Fómhair : Mí Mheán Fómhair – September

Deireadh Fómhair : Mí Dheireadh Fómhair – October

Samhain : Mí na Samhna – November

Nollaig : Mí na Nollag – December

The first column above is a list of the months as they are normally written in Irish. However, it is customary to use the word mí – month – when speaking.

You may also have spotted some differences in spelling and sometimes the use of an or na. For example, Nollaig, but Mí na Nollag. This is because you need the Genitive Case in the second column, which causes some changes, but for now just learn them and we will look at the genitive case at another time!

To write the date in Irish is very simple:

8 Feabhra 2025 - 8th February 2025

17 Nollaig 2024 - 17th December 2024

There is no need to use the definite article an or na when writing the date:

Beidh mé ar ais 16 Iúil (I’ll be back on the 16th of July)

Bhí cóisir aige 6 Eanáir (He had a party on the 6th of January)

However, when speaking you need the following forms:

An chéad lá – the first (day of the month)

An dara lá – the second

An tríú lá – the third

An ceathrú lá – the fourth

An cúigiú lá – the fifth

An séú lá – the sixth

An seachtú lá – the seventh

An t-ochtú lá – the eighth

An naoú lá – the ninth

An deichiú lá – the tenth

Foghlaim! Learn!

See if you can learn these and we’ll look at the rest next time and start to use them in sentences.

Pronunciation is difficult in this media, but you could try abair.ie to help with pronunciation.

Slán leat go fóill – Bye for now – when speaking to one person

Slán libh go fóill – Bye for now – when speaking to more than one person.

Terri

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A Christmas wish from the BIA Staff Team

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 13:33:42 GMT

As Christmas and the end of 2024 draws closer, I would like to take the opportunity to send out my thanks to all our amazing volunteers. You selflessly give so much of your time, thoughtfulness and kindness to our service users whether it be in our office, our dementia centres or on our many activity projects.

"Your contribution helps, amongst many other things, to alleviate social isolation, teach new skills, provide guidance and support. Without you our services would not be able to run in the ways that they do. Whether you come to us to spend the day as part of a work volunteering community day or you are with us on a week-to-week basis, your contribution is immeasurable.

"Sending you all best wishes for a happy Christmas and a peaceful new year."

Róisín Mason, Volunteer Coordinator

Messages from other team members:

“2024, what an amazing year it has been here at Birmingham Irish Association and for the Irish community within our amazing City. This year we have seen the return of the Birmingham St Patrick’s parade in Digbeth, what a memorable day it was. The City turned out in their thousands to participate or watch the fantastic parade that the committee with help from members of our community made happen. We are looking forward to announcing more information about Birmingham St Patrick’s Day Parade 2025 soon.”

Sinead McTernan – Culture, Sport & Heritage Project Officer

Download full statement here

"Rosie and Catherine would like to wish all our volunteers a Wonderful Christmas and a very happy and healthy new year. It has been such a busy year, and we couldn’t have got through it without you all. We are so grateful for all the help, time, chats and smiles that get us through each day. We look forward to the year ahead helping even more people together. Sending love and thanks to you all. God Bless"

Catherine Kelly, Front Office Manager & Rosie Pocklington, Financial Enablement Worker

"What a wonderful year 2024. We would both just like to wish all our volunteers, clients and their families a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Over the last 12 months we have had the most amazing support from the volunteers and couldn’t do it without the help they give to staff and the clients. We just cannot thank you all enough for your loyalty, support and time. A big thank you to all the families of the clients who have been so great in their appreciation of what we all do at the centres. 2024 has been the most memorable and challenging year, but the generosity and support everyone has shown over the last 12 months has been second to none. Looking forward to seeing you all in 2025"

Sharon Toy and Samantha Ataria, Dementia Care Support Workers

“This has been an amazing year for the projects in our Children’s Support Team! Our projects involve visiting local Primary Schools and supporting children and families. Our work involves delivering support sessions to children through discussion, games, stories and activities. We thoroughly enjoy our work with children and families and we are so pleased to be able to offer our support to all the wonderful children we work with. Our Children’s Emotional Support project commenced in June 2024. So far two primary schools have both been visited for two days a week, supporting a total of 37 students. The children have responded well to both the individual and the group sessions, which include a wide range of activities such as role play, movement-based sessions, sensory activities and time for reflection.”

Claire White and Paulene McDermott, Children’s Support Team

Download full statement here

"2024 been a busy and productive year for the Health Enablement team. There has been a steady flow of referrals from people needing our support to stay safe and independent. We’ve had the privilege of being invited into their homes, getting to know them, and hopefully with our advocacy, made a positive difference to their health and wellbeing. We have helped people with a variety of things, including, clients experiencing challenges with illness or disability, finances, housing, caring responsibilities and isolation to name just a few issues."

Emma McGrath and Bernie Walsh, Health Enablement Team

Download full statement here

" To all the amazing people I've had the pleasure to serve this year, wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and thank you for making me feel so welcomed and respected. Throughout this busy year, we were blessed with many sunny walks with the award winning Ramblers, silver surfed across the internet to new destinations to improve our lifestyle, ironed out plenty of back tension in Tuesday Keep Fit Club, and travelled to the south for the County Canal Club. It's been a great adventure and a total joy getting to know so many of you throughout 2024. Here's to hosting plenty more in the New Year! Merry Christmas and a happy new year to the BIA community. "

Liam Blackwood, Activity Coordinator

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language (for Christmas)

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 13:32:44 GMT

Cúpla Focal

Tá an Nollaig ag teacht! Christmas is coming!

Have a merry Christmas and a happy new year!

Slan go fóill,
Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

BBC Local launches new podcast on the Birmingham Pub Bombings

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:27:09 GMT

It’s been called the worst unsolved mass murder in modern British history. Why has no one been brought to justice?

As we approached the 50th anniversary of the Birmingham Pub Bombings, a new podcast series from the BBC was launched to tell the complete story of one the worst terror attacks to ever happen on British soil.

In Detail: The Pub Bombings is a 12-part digital series available exclusively on BBC Sounds. The first six episodes were published on Monday 4 November.

This series explores the impact of the bombs on the countless people affected such as family members of victims, the Birmingham Six and their families, the Irish community in general, and the city itself.

It asks not only who bombed Birmingham, but why has no one been rightfully brought to justice? The series wraps 50 years of an evolving story together for the first time and positions the bombings in the wider context of the Troubles and the Good Friday Agreement.

Produced, researched and presented for BBC Sounds by journalist Ed Barlow, who also produced the BBC FOUR documentary Birmingham Irish I Am , In Detail: The Pub Bombings, tells the story of one of the worst terrorist attacks on British soil. It also features never before heard footage of one of the men accused of the bombings and harrowing personal testimony, revealing how countless lives have been impacted, including those of the Irish community in and around Birmingham.

In November 1974 – an era when the IRA had brought its battle to the streets of Britain – two bombs went off in busy city centre pubs. Twenty-one people died. Hundreds more were injured.

This series goes back to 1974 and brings the story up to the present day and the ongoing calls for a public inquiry. With one of Britain’s worst miscarriages of justice at its heart, as well as lost evidence, IRA informants and allegations of government cover up, this is a story which keeps audiences guessing.

There are also interviews with veteran BBC broadcaster Michael Buerk, who reported on the night of the attack and the trial of the Birmingham Six.

Ed says: “Many of a certain age will know elements of this case – or remember aspects of it - but there are many who simply won’t know anything about it at all – and that was one of the reasons for making this series. We wanted to make sure that people don’t forget the fact that 21 people died in the most awful circumstances and highlight the fact that there are still more questions than answers about what really happened that night in 1974. The ripple effects of those bombs are still being felt to this day, in all sorts of ways, by so many people.”

BBC Radio’s Executive Editor Chris Pegg, who commissioned the series, says: “This is such an important part of the history of Birmingham and the wider West Midlands. This is the first time the whole story has been told in its entirety. Listeners will be taken from 1970s Birmingham to modern day Belfast thanks to some first-class storytelling.”

In Detail: The Pub Bombings is available exclusively on BBC Sounds now.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Report on the Birmingham Pub Bombings 50th Memorial Service 2024

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:24:47 GMT

This year marks 50 years since Birmingham and her people were targeted in the terrible events of the Birmingham Pub Bombings that took place on the 21st November 1974.

O n that evening 21 people lost their lives in our great city and 182 were injured. Countless others suffered and communities, lives and friendships were destroyed due to this horrific incident and its long reaching affects.

The memorial service took place on Thursday 21st November outside Birmingham New Street station next to the Birmingham Pub Bombings memorial trees.

We also had the honour of welcoming Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh to the service. The attendee’s heard a message from the King, and at the end there was an opportunity for Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh to meet performers.

For more information and imagery of the memorial please keep an eye on our social media pages:

Facebook – Birmingham Irish Association

Twitter ('X') - @brumirish

Instagram - @birminghamirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:20:05 GMT

Cúpla Focal

Tá an Nollaig ag teacht! Christmas is coming!

You will be thinking about writing your Christmas cards about now, so why not add a few words of Irish? Make them bi-lingual if you wish and remind everyone of our beautiful Irish tongue.

In Irish, Christmas is referred to as An Nollaig. (Don’t confuse that with Mí na Nollag, which is the month of December) .

Lá Nollag – Christmas Day
Oíche Nollag – Christmas Eve
Lá Fhéile Stiofáin – St Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day in the UK)
Nollaig na mBan – 6 January (This is traditionally the day when the women rested and the men and children did the cooking – it has in recent years been resurrected and the women take the opportunity for a girlie night out!)
Athbhliain – New Year
Crann Nollag – Christmas tree
Daidí na Nollag – Santa or Father Christmas
Féirín Nollag – Christmas present
Maisiúchain na Nollag – Christmas decorations
Cártaí Nollag – Christmas cards

Here are a few useful phrases for your cards:

Nollaig Shona duit – Happy Christmas
Guím gach sonas ort sa bhliain 2025 – wishing you every happiness in 2025
Síochán an Tiarna leat um Nollag – Peace of the Lord be with you at Christmas
Le sonas na féile – season’s greetings
Beannachtaí na Nollag – Christmas blessings
Le gach dea-ghuí - with every good wish (This one is worth learning as you can use it all the year round)

And to finish with, if you would like to address a specific relative in your card, here are a few handy words:

Máthair – mother
Athair – father
Seanmháthair – grandmother
Seanathair – grandfather
iníon – daughter
Mac – son
Gariníon – granddaughter
Garmhac – grandson
To say my you just put mo in front of it:
Mo mháthair - My mother (notice the spelling change: there is now a h after the m in mathair!
M’athair – My father (shortened up mo athair because athair begins with a vowel)
Mo sheanmháthair (h on sean)
Mo sheanathair (note that extra h again!)
M’iníon – My daughter
Mo mhac – My son
Mo ghariníon – My granddaughter
Mo Gharmhac – My grandson

We’ll have a little more on Christmas next month!

Slan go fóill,
Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Irish Volunteer Award Evening held on 4 October 2024

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 20:47:54 GMT

On Friday 4 October Birmingham Irish Association hosted our Volunteers Awards Evening 2024.

Each volunteer received an invitation to be in attendance of this celebration. As an organisation we wanted to show our appreciation to our dedicated volunteering team.

We have many different services running each day throughout our organisation thanks to our volunteers.

Dementia Care Support Worker – Sharon Toy

“The volunteers are the backbone of the centres, giving up their free time each week to support each client. They make a positive impact on each and every one of our lovely clients. The centres wouldn’t be able to run as smoothly and has effectively as they do without all the support of the wonderful volunteers.”

Office Manager – Catherine Kelly

“Volunteers are so important within the front office and without them I would be lost! They are the front of house to greet the public, have a chat with them and take their details. While I’m processing applications they answer the phone, take messages, run the shop and even do the photos for passports. They bring such a happy warmth and make the day brighter and run smoother”

Volunteer Coordinator – Roisin Mason

Why is it important for BIA to have volunteers?

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of Birmingham Irish Association (BIA), they complement and enhance the work done by our staff. Coming from many different backgrounds means that they bring with them a wide range of skills and experience. Their enthusiasm, dedication, ideas and feedback provides BIA with the opportunity for improvement and growth. They help us to develop our services in new ways, enabling us to reach and support more people in the community. Our projects wouldn’t be able to run in the ways that they do without our amazing team of volunteers.”

The evening consisted of a delicious meal for all, a surprise magician and of course lots of singing and dancing.

Each volunteer was presented by the CEO Maurice Malone with a trophy and a certificate as a thank you for the volunteer’s dedication to our services throughout the year.

On behalf of the Birmingham Irish Staff, Trustee’s and service users we thank you all!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Pub Bombings 50th Memorial Service

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 20:47:48 GMT

This year marks 50 years since Birmingham and her people were targeted in the terrible events of the Birmingham Pub Bombings on the 21 November 1974.

On that evening 21 people lost their lives in our great city and 182 were injured. Countless others suffered and communities, lives and friendships were destroyed due to this horrific incident and its long reaching affects.

The memorial service will take place on Thursday 21st November 2024 next to the tree memorial at New Street Station.

Please keep an eye on our social media pages and this website for up-to-date information and ticket releases:

Facebook – Birmingham Irish Association

Twitter ('X') - @brumirish

Instagram - @birminghamirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 20:47:38 GMT

Hi a chairde. Conas atá sibh?

This month you might be celebrating Oíche Shamhna – Halloween

Here are a few key words and phrases for Halloween:

cailleach gránna – an ugly witch

masc caillí – witch’s mask

púicín - blindfold

gléasta suas – dressed up

hata biorach dubh – pointed black hat

crann scuaibe – broomstick

úlla – apples

cnónna – nuts

milseáin – sweets

bairín breac – barm brack

fáinne – ring

taibhse – ghost

scannán uafás – horror film

ag insint scéalta – telling stories

eagla an domhain – very frightened

brionglóid – dream

tromluí – nightmare

Here’s a little Halloween poem/song. Have a go at translating it!

Oíche Shamhna a bhí ann.

Chnag sí ar an doras.

Cailleach gránna

Ag caitheamh hata biorach.

Bhí cat ina lámh aici

Is scuab ar an talamh

Agus seo a chan sí dom:

Oíche Shamhna shona duit

Tabhair dom bainne do mo chat.

B’fhearr liom féin píosa bairín breac

Is cnónna moncaí leis.

Oíche Shamhna shona daoibh go léir!

Beir bua
Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Welcome Claire and Samantha to the Birmingham Irish Association team

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:43:41 GMT

We have some new additions to our team of staff and volunteers at Birmingham Irish Association - without these amazing people it would be impossible for us to provide our daily services.

See Birmingham Irish full team : Click here >

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers – Introducing Harry Dennick

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:40:57 GMT

Over the next few months, we will be giving you all an insight into our wonderful team of volunteers here at Birmingham Irish Association - without these amazing individuals it would be impossible for staff to provide our daily services.

Read Harry's Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Harry Dennick

“I am a very sociable person and I volunteer because I have always wanted to help people. I get so much satisfaction making people happy and putting a smile on their faces.” – Harry Dennick

' Everyone at the centre is always happy to see Harry every Monday and listen to all his stories and jokes. Harry is always willing to help with all the activities and I appreciate all he does at the centre for the clients. Harry is one of a kind.' – Sharon Toy (Dementia care support worker)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email roisin@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

IRIE-ISH : A community tribute and memorial to Dr Benjamin Zephaniah

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:40:02 GMT

This event is being organised in association with the Benjamin Zephaniah Family Legacy Group , Melika Queely (local classical artist), The National Mikey Powell Memorial Family Fund (NMPMFF) and Birmingham Irish Association.

All the performers will be young people from Birmingham who want to show their appreciation of Dr Benjamin Zephaniah through music and dance. There will also be an Auction Raffle of unique hand-made Zephaniah canvas murals to raise funds for the Acorns Children’s Hospice appeal.

The event format will include:

Performances from Melika Queely and young people from African/Caribbean and Irish communities
Speakers from the family of Benjamin Zephaniah (possibly others)
Presentation from Acorns Children’s Hospice
Donations to Acorns will be encouraged

Already have an event scheduled? let NMPMFF know here:

www.memorialfamilyfund.org.uk/submit-event-zephaniah

This is a multicultural (child-friendly) tribute and memorial event for a giant of our times.’ Download the flyer here

Booking is FREE.

Donations to Acorns Children’s Hospice are welcomed!

See full booking details here >

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:38:15 GMT

Cúpla Focal

Dia Dhaoibh a chairde! Conas atá sibh?

So how did you do with your little Summer test? ( see last edition )

Check your answers below:

Nuair a bhíonn sé grianmhar = When it’s sunny
Nuair a bhíonn sé ceomhar = When it is foggy/misty
Nuair a bhíonn sé geal = When it is bright
Bhí sé ag cur sneachta = It was snowing
Tá sé fuar inniu = It is cold today
Bhí sé scamallach inné in Birmingham (or i mBirmingham) = It was cloudy yesterday in Birmingham
Tá sé róghaofar = It is too windy
Tá sé róthe = It is too hot
Nuair a bhíonn sé fuar = When it is cold
Nuair a bhionn an aimsir go maith = When the weather is good

Well done if you got those right!

This month we will be talking about the family – An Teaghlach (Teaghlach is the family – the people in your household)

Muintir is used if you are talking about your wider family.

Tá triúr i mo theaglach – There are three in my family/household
Is as Gaillimh mo mhuintir – My people are from Galway
athair – father aintín - aunt
máthair – mother nia - nephew
tuismitheoir – parent neacht - niece
mac – son seanathair - grandfather
iníon – daughter seanmháthair - grandmother
deartháir – brother garmhac - grandson
deirfiur – sister gariníon - granddaughter
uncail – uncle leasathair – stepfather
leasmháthair – stepmother bean chéile – wife
fear céile – husband

And here are a few useful phrases you can use to talk about your family:

Is páiste aonair mé – I’m an only child
Tá mé uchtaithe – I’m adopted
Tá beirt pháistí againn – We have two children
An bhfuil clann agat? - Do you have children?
Tá beirt mhac agam – I have two sons
(You can use clann or paistí for children)
pósta – married scartha – separated
colscartha – divorced singil – single
baintreach – widow/widower geallta – engaged

Remember if you want to hear or use a few words of Irish come along to Norton’s in Digbeth on Sunday 13 October from I-3pm. The Irish session is followed by a traditional Irish music session beginning at 3pm, (and every second Sunday of the month).

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath,
Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

BIA Health Day Event 2024

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 00:59:35 GMT

On 23rd July, the Tuesday Club and BIA Health Enablement Team hosted a Health and Wellbeing event held at St Anne’s.

Representatives from some of the agencies we work alongside to support our community were in attendance: Age UK, Forward Carer’s, Admiral Nurses, ICAP, the Alzheimer’s Society and West Midlands Fire Service.

They were kept very busy all day chatting to the over 70 attendees, providing valuable information about the services and support they offer. It was great for BIA staff to put faces to names we’re working in partnership with, too. Also gave us lots more information about what’s out there to support our clients.

All in all, it was a very successful event, with lots of positive feedback from all attendees. The agencies reported how impressed they were with the vibrancy and positive energy of the Club. One of them remarked, "Where else would you see so many older people so engaged on a Tuesday."

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers – Introducing Carmel Boyle

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 00:52:35 GMT

Read Carmel's Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Carmel Boyle

“I had two losses in the family and felt I had lost myself; my daughter saw the advert on Facebook for a volunteer at Maryvale and thought I would benefit from volunteering. From the moment I walked through the door I knew it was right for me.

"I get so much out of being a volunteer and I feel it’s helped me as much as I help as I help everyone.” – Carmel Boyle

' Carmel volunteers twice a week at the centre and is a great asset, and her willingness to give her time to everyone at the centre is greatly appreciated. She is reliable and always willing to help, and everyone has a fun when she is around them. Carmel, you are brilliant and thank you for putting a smile on everyone’s face each week.' – Sharon Toy (Dementia care support worker)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email roisin@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:30:00 GMT

Cúpla Focal

Dia Dhaoibh a chairde

Following holidays and accommodation, inevitably we need to talk about the weather!

An aimsir – the weather

Conas atá an aimsir inniu? What’s the weather like today?

Well, anseo in Willenhall tá sé fliuch báite – soaking wet.

Wet weather is sometimes described as aimsir salach – dirty weather!

Some useful phrases:

Bhí an aimsir go dona – The weather was bad

Bhí an aimsir go maith – The weather is good

ag cur baistí – raining

ag cur sneachta – snowing

ceomhar – foggy

Tá sé fuar inniu – it’s cold today

Bhí sé gaofar inné – it was windy yesterday

Bhí sé grianmhar sa Spáinn – It was sunny in Spain

Níl sé scamallach anois – it’s not cloudy now

stoirmiúil – stormy

te – hot

róthe – too hot

an-te – very hot

geal - bright

Nuair a bhíonn sé grianmhar téim amach ag siúl – When it’s sunny I go out walking

Nuair a bhíonn sé fuar fanaim sa bhaile – When it’s cold I stay at home

Nuair a bhíonn sé ag cur sneachta téim ag sciáil – When it’s snowing I go skiing

Useful hint : Listen to the weather forecast (Réamhaisneis na haimsire) as Gaeilge on TG4 or Raidió na Gaeltachta and see how many words you recognise.

Try to translate the following now!

Nuair a bhíonn sé grianmhar (When it’s sunny)
Nuair a bhíonn sé ceomhar
Nuair a bhíonn sé geal
Bhí sé ag cur sneachta
Tá sé fuar inniu
Bhí sé scamallach inné in Birmingham
Tá sé ró ghaofar
Tá sé róthe
Nuair a bhíonn sé fuar
Nuair a bhionn an aimsir go maith

Answers next time!

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath,
Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Irish in Britain Volunteer Awards 2024 - Group win for The Ramblers

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 12:26:18 GMT

We have some wonderful news to share about a group of Birmingham Irish Association (BIA) volunteers.

"A wonderful day in London"

Here is Irish in Britain’s report of the day: ' Volunteering changes lives': Irish in Britain's 2024 Volunteer Awards

"Sending out a huge Congratulations to The Ramblers group from all at Birmingham Irish Association."

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The Birmingham Irish Ramblers City Cultural Walk, led by John Brennan

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 12:24:29 GMT

This cultural walk took place on 24th June from Snow Hill Station, around the Colmore Estate finishing in the Jewellery Quarter.

"And then there was more"

"We were blessed with fine weather which made the Cultural Tour that much more enjoyable."

John Brennan

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Welcome Liam and Emma to the Birmingham Irish Association team

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:21:02 GMT

We have some new additions to our team of staff and volunteers at Birmingham Irish Association - without these amazing people it would be impossible for us to provide our daily services.

See Birmingham Irish full team : Click here >

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Volunteers Week 2024 - from 3rd June to Sunday 9th June 2024

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:19:07 GMT

Volunteer’s week took place Monday 3rd June – Sunday 9th June 2024.

The services provided here at Birmingham Irish would be impossible to offer to our community without the dedication of our truly wonderful volunteers and it was time to say thank you!

“The volunteers are the backbone of the dementia centres, I really appreciate each and every one of them. The centres couldn’t run each day without their support and dedicated commitment each week. Each volunteer makes a positive impact and difference to each client’s experience at the centre.” – Sharon Toy (Dementia Care Support Worker)

“Our volunteers are so important within the front office as they are the first point of contact with our clients, having a chat and giving them information. They help us in all aspects of daily tasks which helps our day run a lot smoother. We would be lost without them.” – Catherine Kelly (Front Office Manager)

“Our volunteers at BIA are essential for us within the day to day running of the charity, they bring purpose, drive, organisation and fun to all services and after just 3 weeks here at BIA I am so impressed with they’re job execution and flexibility. Accounts, food prep, office admin, travel guides and community inclusion activities are all vital qualities that we are all so grateful to have.” – Liam Blackwood (Activity Coordinator)

“Volunteers' Week is a chance to celebrate and recognise the fantastic contribution our volunteers make to the delivery of our services. They generously donate their time and skills which greatly enhances our service user’s experience. Our dementia centre service users benefit immensely from their company, those seeking advice and help receive a warm welcome from our office volunteers and our activities volunteers help to ease the effects of social isolation.

We also want to thank the many companies, organisations and individuals who have chosen to spend their community volunteering days with us throughout the year. Volunteers are a vital part of our organisation. Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers.” – Roisin Mason (Volunteer Coordinator)

“During national volunteers week I would like to pay tribute to our wonderful volunteers here at the Birmingham Irish Association. Our Volunteers are ordinary people but they have extraordinary hearts. Every one of them give up their own time to help inspire those around them and those in our community who maybe have no family network or companionship too see them through difficult times.

"They expect nothing in return but the value of their work to our organisation knows no limits. They know the value of the simple things in life and how they can make a huge difference to those in need. It may be a smile, a hug or a reassuring word that can bring joy and happiness to those around them. We wouldn’t be able to support the countless people we do without our dedicated volunteers and we thank each and every one of you from the bottom of our hearts.” – Maurice Malone (Chief Executive)

If you would like to know about the volunteering opportunities available please contact our Volunteer Coordinator:

Roisin (Volunteer Coordinator) via email roisin@birish.org.uk

Check out our volunteer celebrations on our social media pages;

Facebook - www.facebook.com/BrumIrish

Twitter - www.twitter.com/brumirish

Instagram - www.instagram.com/birminghamirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:02:17 GMT

"Dia daoibh a chairde!"

A little more about holidays this month!

Laethanta Saoire – holidays

Ag dul ar saoire – going on holiday

Saorlá bainc – bank holiday

Ag eitilt – flying

Ag tiomáint – driving

Ag seoltóireacht – sailing

A boat is a bád, but a ship is a long and a ferry is a bád farantóireacht.

Táim ag dul bealach na farraige – I’m going by boat

Amuigh faoin tuath - In the countryside

Cois farraige – at the seaside

Bolg le gréin – to sunbathe (literally – belly to the sun!!)

An raibh tú ar saoire fós? Have you been on holiday yet?

Bhí. Bhí mé in Éirinn – Yes. I was in Ireland.

Here are a few more countries to consider for your laethanta saoire:

Albain – Scotland
An Bhreatain Bheag - Wales (Little Britain!)
An Fhrainc – France
An Ghréig – Greece
An Spáinn – Spain
An Iodáil – Italy
Meiriceá – America
Na Stáit Aontaithe – The United States
An Astráil – Australia

Notice that a lot of countries take the definite article (the) in Irish, but not all of them!

And a little on accommodation:

Lóistín – accommodation
Leaba agus bricfeasta – bed and breakfast
Féinfhreastal – self-catering
brú óige – youth hostel
Óstán – hotel
Carbhán - caravan
Árasán – apartment
Pubal is a tent but camping is ag campáil

You may need a pas – passport

Cá bhfuil mo phas? - Where is my passport?

Ar bhain tú sult as? Did you enjoy it?

Bhí sé ar fheabhas – it was great

Bhí se róthe – it was too hot

Bain sult as – Enjoy!
Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Farewell and good luck to Terry Nash

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 21 May 2024 14:11:27 GMT

This month Birmingham Irish Association say a final farewell to Terry... our dedicated Activity Coordinator. We all wish him the very best in the future.

Terry has been with us for nearly 12 years and has made a massive difference to many people in our community within this time.

"We would like to show our appreciation for all of his outstanding hard work over the years."

Staff, Volunteers & Service Users are going to truly miss his wonderful energy.

Good Luck with your new adventure Terry - From your Birmingham Irish Association family.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Our Dementia Awareness Project update

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 21 May 2024 14:10:01 GMT

Our Dementia Awareness Project funded by Children in Need and The Irish Youth Foundation supports children who have a family member living with Dementia and helps to raise awareness of Dementia amongst young people.

Following the success of our Dementia Awareness workshops over the past four years, we are now directing our support towards those children who have a loved one with Dementia through small support groups in local Primary Schools. The sessions give children the opportunity to share their experience of Dementia and talk to others experiencing a similar situation. It also enables them to share their feelings and concerns about their Nanny or Grandad and Dementia and talk about ways we can connect with our loved ones.

During the sessions we also read some story books and play memory games and activities, this helps the children to understand more about Dementia in a simple and child friendly way. The sessions develop children’s knowledge and understanding of Dementia and also provides them with valuable life skills to enable them to be able to help and support people in their family or community living with Dementia.

We feel it is extremely important to educate young children about Dementia as there are currently 850,000 people living with Dementia in the UK and this is expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040. Nearly one third of young people know someone with Dementia, so now is the time to work together to educate our younger generations and help to raise awareness and understanding.

It is extremely rewarding to work with schools that recognise how important it is to raise awareness of Dementia and educate younger children.

If you know of any schools that would like to get involved or if you would like some more information about our Dementia Awareness Project, please email our Children’s Support worker, Paulene - paulene@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 21 May 2024 14:07:54 GMT

"Dia daoibh a chairde. Bhí mé i nGaillimh an tseachtain seo caite agus ag smaoineamh oraibhse!"

“I was in Galway last week and thinking of you all!”

As the weather is improving our minds may be turning to travel, so this month I’ll be showing you how to talk about places you’ve been. To do that a little bit of grammar is required, but don’t worry – it’s easy stuff!

In the first line you will have seen the phrase, Bhí mé i nGaillimh… The Irish word for Galway is Gaillimh but when you want to say in Galway you use the little word i (meaning in) followed by the place-name, Galway. However, after that little word i (the simple preposition if you want the technical term) you are required to use an urú at the beginning of the place-name so you say, i nGaillimh.

The urú is the extra letter you see added to the name, i nGaillimh.

The urú changes the pronunciation so you no longer hear the first letter of the name, you hear the sound of the urú instead.

So an urú is placed before the consonants b, c, d, f, g, p and t, after the simple preposition i and each consonant has its own urú!

Here they are:

Words beginning with B take an M – Béal Feirste (Belfast)= i mBéal Feirste (in Belfast)
Words beginning with C take a G – Corcaigh (Cork) = i gCorcaigh (in Cork)
Words beginning with D take an N – Doire (Derry) = i nDoire (in Derry)
Words beginning with F take BH – Fear Manach (Fermanagh) = i bhFear Manach (in Fermanagh)
Words beginning with G take an N – Gaillimh (Galway) = i nGaillimh (in Galway)
Words beginning with P take a B – Port Láirge (Waterford) = i bPort Láirge (in Waterford)
Words beginning with T take a D – Trá Lí (Tralee) = i dTrá Lí (in Tralee)

One more thing to notice: The original capital letter stays the same – the urú is always a small, lower-case letter. It never happens in English, but in this case you have words that begin with a small letter followed by a capital!

So, bhí mise i nGaillimh – cá raibh tusa? (I was in Galway – where were you?) Give it a go!

We will add to this topic next time, but meanwhile, Bain sult as an aimsir (enjoy the weather) agus feicfidh mé thú go luath.

Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Irish Passport application process: an update

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 01:36:29 GMT

At the present moment, all adult Irish passport applications have an 8-week turnaround time, but please do not accept this estimated issue date as a guarantee, as this could change for many reasons and could be longer for children's renewals and first time passports.

As there are currently no fast-track services available from the Irish passport office, we would strongly advise that no travel be booked until passports have been received.

If a passport renewal is needed, a renewals only urgent appointment service is available at the London Passport Office on Cromwell Road. To book your appointment, please click here

Please note that a paper application form APS2E would need to be completed and signed by a witness along with your photographs prior to your appointment in London.

Our office in Digbeth can provide the APS2E form and also a designated witness by appointment only. Paper applications are only accepted for this process and please ensure that all instructions are followed before arriving for your appointment.

For all passport applications, a tracking service is provided online using the tracking number received via email when your application was made. We strongly advise that all email addresses entered in applications are checked thoroughly before submitting, as email will be the primary form of contact from the Irish Passport Office if they require any further information. Applications can be tracked by visiting: www.passporttracking.dfa.ie/passporttracking

For specific help on an application, to book an appointment or for any Irish passport application enquiries, please contact our office team through 0121 604 6111 between 10am and 3pm from Monday to Friday, or email catherine@birish.org.uk

Links you may find useful:

Passport Service Updates Page - www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/passport-online
General information regarding passport applications - www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/updates
General information regarding Foreign Birth Registrations - www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/citizenship/born-abroad

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers – Introducing Sheila Dennick

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 01:34:49 GMT

Read Sheila' Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Sheila Dennick

"I first heard of Birmingham Irish during lockdown, when they started delivering hot food to my brother.

"I was really impressed with all the good work they did. After lockdown I made an enquiry about volunteering which led me to volunteering at Maryvale. I really enjoy it.” – Sheila Dennick

'Sheila is an asset to the centre and is always smiling, Maryvale is really lucky to have you. Sheila very organised and will always take the lead and help with all the activities.' – Sharon Toy (Dementia care support worker)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email roisin@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 01:33:06 GMT

Cúpla Focale

Dia daoibh a chairde!

Tá an t-Earrach linn anois – Spring has arrived!

So let’s take a look at ways we might start getting active now the days are getting longer and warmer.

Tá na laethanta níos teo agus níos faide anois! The days are warmer and longer now!

Caitheamh aimsire – Pastimes

Here is the Irish for a few pastimes:

Spóirt – sport

Peil Gaelach – Gaelic football

Sacar – soccer

Iománíocht – hurling

rugbaí – rugby

leadóg – tennis

galf – golf

cispheil – basketball

And for more leisurely activities:

An amharclann – The theatre

Teach tabhairne – pub

An phictiúrlann – The cinema

ceol – music

ceol tradisiúnta - traditional music

ceolchoirm – concert

ceol tuaithe – country music

ceol clasaiceach – classical music

snagceol – jazz

leabharlann - library

If you want to say you’re musical, you can say:

Tá ceol agam (literally I have music)

Tá snámh agam – I can swim

The word imirt is used when playing sport, but the word seinnim would be used to play a musical instrument, so:

Tá mé ag imirt peil – I am playing football, but:

Seinnim an fhidil – I play the fiddle.

Is maith liom – I like – very handy phrase!

Is maith liom bheith ag snámh – I like to swim

Is maith liom bheith ag léamh – I like to read

Is maith liom bheith ag canadh – I like to sing

If you want to say you love doing something, use Is breá liom:

Is breá liom ceol – I love music.

Is brea liom an teach tabhairne – I love the pub!

Bain sult as an séasúr! Enjoy the season!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: My blueprint to triple number of social homes across the West Midlands

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 01:30:59 GMT

This month, I thought I would share with you my plans to spark a revolution in the amount of Social Housing built in the West Midlands.

What do I mean by Social Housing? Well, I guess it’s the kind of housing that used to be called ‘council houses’, but things have changed a great deal since those days.

For a start, councils don’t build as many houses as they used to – these days it tends to be Housing Associations that take on the job of providing valuable, quality accommodation for affordable rent.

Everyone knows there is a desperate need for more Social Housing for rent in our region. The situation in Birmingham is even worse, with the bankrupt council forced to stop building Social Housing.

When there is not enough quality Social Housing available, people who need stable and secure housing find themselves stuck on waiting lists for years and often trapped in temporary or unsuitable accommodation.

The problem is that until now we haven’t had the funding or control to be able to make a difference. That has changed, thanks to the landmark deal I signed with the Government - which will allow us to step in, take control and get a grip on the issue.

The idea is simple, and it forms one of the big pledges of my re-election campaign. I will use the hundreds of millions of pounds I have negotiated with the Government – up to £400 million until 2026 – to partner with Housing Associations to fill the gap and start building the Social Housing we need.

We are already the only region hitting its house building targets, and we have led the way on making sure enough affordable homes are included in new developments – but this is different. This is the next step.

The ambitious plan would be the first time the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has directly funded the building of Social Housing.

And we have to be ambitious – I’m talking about tripling the pace of social housebuilding in the region from the current rate of 500-700 new homes per year started by Housing Associations in the Metropolitan WMCA area, to roughly 1,700 per year by 2028.

I also want to partner with developers, local authorities and housing associations to regenerate existing estates, providing better quality housing for existing residents, and increasing the number of homes available.

This is about building quality Social Homes for rent for people who want to have a home to call their own, people like key workers, nurses and young families. We will be building real communities too – that are nurtured by supportive housing associations.

Our region is leading the way on building new homes in the right places – this pledge will make even more quality houses available.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham St Patrick’s Day Parade 2024 was a great success

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:01:43 GMT

So, the dust has settled on the 2024 St Patrick's Parade .

We have now had time to catch our breath, have some much needed rest and reflect on its long awaited return.

Firstly we need to say a massive thank you to everyone who supported the parade and embraced our vision to take it back to its roots. It was by no means perfect and we have learned a lot which, going forward, will help to shape future parades and make the experience even more enjoyable.

We will be carrying out a community consultation in the next few weeks to gather your views ... at the end of the day it’s your parade. Maybe we can’t compete with Dublin and New York as the biggest parades in the world but we can certainly compete to be the best!

"We are currently crunching the numbers and we will be publishing the cost of running the parade via our website in due course."

Maurice Malone

CEO, Birmingham Irish Association

Please check out our social media pages for parade pictures and updates:

Twitter - @stpatparadebham
Facebook - St Patrick’s Festival Birmingham
Instagram - @stpatsfest

There is still time to make a kind donation towards your Birmingham St Patrick’s Day Parade 2025 via the Givey link here: www.givey.com/stpatricks24letsmakeithappen

Visit the official parade website – www.stpatsparade.co.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

£801.80 donation to the Dementia Centre in honour of Frank Kelly

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:47:14 GMT

The staff, board of trustees and volunteers at Birmingham Irish Association would like to express a huge thank you to the Kelly family for the heartfelt donation of £801.80 to our Dementia centre in memory of Frank Kelly.

Frank was attending our Dementia centre for many years and was a much loved member of our club. He had a special twinkle in his eye when he came in to us each day, he loved to sing & dance to all the well-known Irish songs and was even well known for singing many of the Beatles songs to the group as it was not a secret that was his favourite band.

‘The Boys in Green Band’ made Franks sessions very special as they knew how passionate about music he was so, they invited him to be an extra member of the band, playing the tambourine to the group when they came to visit us each month.

There wasn’t much that Frank wouldn’t throw himself into at the centre, all of the daily activities he really enjoyed and got stuck in and was a positive energy for others to be around (Frank had a competitive side which we all loved, he always had a huge smile on his face when we announced that he was the first to finish the quiz or was the winner of the bingo etc).

Throughout the years of us all getting to know Frank we soon learnt the things that were close to his heart the most important being how much family meant to him, he loved his Wife, Children and Grandchildren with all of his heart and was so lucky to have an incredible family surrounding him and supporting him always. Frank was a wonderful Gentleman and will be hugely missed in our centre by all the Staff and volunteers who adored him.

Thank you to the Kelly family for choosing Birmingham Irish Association for the kind donation in honour of Frank Kelly. The donation means so much to us all and is going to make a massive difference in our Dementia Centre’s, your thoughtfulness and generosity are much appreciated.

Frank Kelly will always be our Donegal Legend. ♥️

For more information about our Dementia Centre’s across the city please email sharon@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:39:40 GMT

Dia daoibh a chairde!

Ar ais arís – back again and ready to try a few more words as Gaeilge.

If you want to try out a little Irish in Birmingham, do join us at our monthly Sunday get-togethers at Norton’s in Digbeth. We hope to persuade the bar staff there to serve you in Irish! So what would that look like?

Firstly, a few drinks:

uisce beatha – whiskey (literally The Water of Life!)

pionta beorach– a pint of beer

gloine uisce – a glass of water

sú oráiste – orange juice

deoch bhog – a soft drink

uisce mianraí – mineral water

gloine fíona – a glass of wine

fíon dearg – red wine

fíon geal – white wine

beoir gan alcól – non-alcoholic beer

deoch gan alcól – non-alcoholic drink

cupán caife – a cup of coffee

cupán tae – a cup of tea

You can order simply, as follows:

Pionta Guinness, le do thoil (A pint of Guinness, please)

And if you succeed in getting the drink, you can say:

Go raibh maith agat! Thank you.

A few terms that you may also like to use:

Tá mé spallta leis an tart – I’m parched with thirst

Cad a bheith agatsa – what will you have?

Ar mhaith leat deoch? Would you like a drink?

Ba mhaith – I would (Yes!)

Ba mhaith liom pionta. I would like a pint?

And now the all-important toast!

The simplest and most commonly used is sláinte! (your health)

But you might like to try:

Fad saol agat, gob fliuch agus bás in Éirinn (May you have a long life, a wet mouth and may you die in Ireland!)

Finally, here are a few proverbs concerning drink:

Sláinte na bhfear agus go maire na mná go deo (Health to the men and may the women live forever).

Is tuisce deoch ná scéal (A drink comes before a story – ie offer a drink first before asking for the latest news!).

Nuair a bhíos an braon istigh bíonn an chiall amuigh (When the drop is within, the sense is outside – ie drink leads to foolishness!).

So keeping that last one in mind, bain sult as do dheoch - enjoy your drink!

Go maire tú an céad! May you live to be a hundred!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

St Patrick’s Day Parade showed Irish Community, and Digbeth, at their very best

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:37:13 GMT

I am writing this column not long after a triumphant St. Patrick’s Day Parade , which returned to Birmingham for its 50th year.

After five years off, it was wonderful to see Brum come alive in a way that you only get with St. Patrick’s Day – with all the colour, music, laughs and good humour you would expect.

I promised I would support Maurice Malone and his team at the Birmingham Irish Association to get the parade back, and what a return it was. A truly special celebration.

The Parade is not only a hugely important cultural event for our Irish community, but also one of those fantastic, iconic calendar dates that illustrate the real diversity and unity of our city and region.

The Birmingham parade dates back to 1952 and was one of the first in Britain and, for a time, was reckoned to be the third biggest in the world.

I want to thank Maurice and all of the team for all of their hard work and dedication, It really paid off. That made it such a success.

It is such an important event for Birmingham, and for Digbeth - often described as the spiritual home of the city’s Irish community.

Digbeth is going through a real rebirth at the moment, and this party felt very much like it celebrated those changes. It was great to see the parade come home after five years.

Fittingly, I thought I would end this column by welcoming another homecoming to Digbeth – the Peaky Blinders!

As you may know, Digbeth is becoming a hugely important area for TV and film production – some have even called it ‘Brummiewood’. Among the many creative businesses making the area their home is the Digbeth Loc studios, run by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight.

It has just been announced that a new movie based on the hugely popular TV show – complete with Oscar-winning star Cillian Murphy – is to be shot soon at the Digbeth studios.

Just like the return of the Parade, the progress with the Metro, the BBC’s new HQ and the great new public realm works that look so good, and the arrival of the Shelby brothers in Digbeth show the area really is being out on the map.

I can’t wait to see the finished film – and I’m already looking forward to next years' St Patrick’s Day parade.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham St Patrick’s Day Parade - takes place 17th March 2024

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:29:41 GMT

On Sunday 17th March 2024, the 50th year of the Birmingham St Patrick’s Day parade will return back to Digbeth.

There is still time to support us and get involved !

To support the parade, please click here .

Visit the brand new parade website to register as a walking group or float and to keep up to date with all information. www.stpatsparade.co.uk

Mass will take place at St Anne’s Church Digbeth on Sunday 17th March at 10am.

The parade will commence from the top of Bradford Street (Camp Hill) at 12 noon.

The parade will halt to tribute Shane MacGowan led by Birmingham Irish Pipes & Drums we will sing “Dirty old town” at 12:45pm.

Email sinead@birish.org.uk for all parade enquiries.

"We can’t wait to see you all very soon."

For all updates follow our St Patrick’s Parade social media pages:

Twitter - @stpatparadebham
Facebook - St Patrick’s Festival Birmingham
Instagram - @stpatsfest

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:23:12 GMT

Dia daoibh a chairde! Conas atá sibh?

This month I thought I might share with you a few useful everyday phrases that you might struggle to find in a dictionary!

HOW DO YOU SAY…?

Mind your own business!

You might say:

Tabhair aire do do ghnóthaí féin (Take care of your own business)

or:

Coinnigh do ladar amach! (Literally: Keep your ladle out of it!)

or:

Ní bhaineann sé leat (It’s got nothing to do with you)

Get lost!

Gread leat!

Keep away from me!

Fan amach uaim!

I’m fine/I’m grand

Tá mé togha (pronounced thow)

or:

Níl rud ar bith ag cur isteach orm (Nothing is bothering me)

Hands off!

Ná leag lámh air!

You can’t have your cake and eat it.

Ní féidir é a bheith i do phota agus i do mhála agat.

(Literally: You can’t have it in the pot and in your bag)

And here are a couple of books, written in English, which will doubtless inspire you to work at your Irish:

Coming Home by Michael McCaughan

Michael writes beautifully about his own journey with the language, while sharing with us every learning technique you are ever going to need! A must read for anyone with an interest in Irish.

Anseo by Úna-Minh Kavanagh

Úna-Minh was born in Vietnam and brought up by an Irish speaker in Kerry. She talks about her love of the language and also about the challenges she encountered, including racism, while growing up in Ireland.

Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh go leir!

Feicfidh mé sibh ag an mórsiúil, 17ú Márta, le cunadh Dé! (See you at the parade!)

Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Full steam ahead to build a world-class rail network

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:21:54 GMT

Birmingham and the West Midlands deserves a world-class public transport system and, as Mayor, I am determined to deliver it.

Digbeth, the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community, is a big part in this plan, with the new Metro line linking up the east of the city centre.

But this month, I wanted to use my column to tell you about how we are also seeing a revolution on our railways, with new stations opening across the region.

Getting public transport right – whether that’s with trams, electric buses, cycle lanes or on the railways – is vital, as it connects communities together, gives people access to jobs and opportunities, boosts business and brings in new investment. It also cuts down traffic, easing congestion and helping us hit our climate change targets.

Sadly, much of our network was suffering from decades of neglect. What was needed was serious investment. Since I became Mayor, investment in transport here has increased seven-fold.

Take a look at our railway network, which is seeing a significant expansion, with passenger services returning to local lines have been shut for decades.

In the south of the city three stations, Kings Heath, Pineapple Road, and Moseley Village on the Camp Hill line, are currently under construction, ready for the long-awaited return of passenger rail services after 80 years.

Over in the Black Country, stations are also being built in Darlaston and Willenhall, while this week work began on a £30 million project to build a single platform station built in Aldridge, with a 40-space car park and road access from Westfield Drive.

But that’s not all – we have begun looking at the next phase of our rail ambitions, with plans for new stations at Castle Bromwich, Coventry East and near Tettenhall in Wolverhampton.

I also want to press ahead with my ambition to reopen the old line that runs through Sutton Park, which could see new stations in Sutton Coldfield too.

Add to all this the new trains that are coming into service in Brum, and it’s an exciting time.

It’s a well-known fact that much of Birmingham’s rail network was shaped by Irish workers. I wonder what they might think of all this new activity, in some cases reopening the long-closed lines that they built. I hope they would approve of our new transport revolution.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Happy New Year message from the Staff and Trustee’s of BIA for 2024

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 14:29:41 GMT

Birmingham Irish Association hope everyone in our community had a special, relaxing Christmas time spent with loved ones.

We would like to wish you all a Happy New Year, in the hope that 2024 is filled with positivity, joy and happiness .

We would like to share a poem by Jackie Kay “Promise”

Remember, the time of year

when the future appears

like a blank sheet of paper

a clean calendar, a new chance.

On thick white snow

You vow fresh footprints

then watch them go

with the wind’s hearty gust.

Fill your glass. Here’s tae us. Promises

made to be broken, made to last

(From A Poem For Every Day Of The Year)

Thank you for your continued support of our organisation throughout the year of 2023. We look forward to seeing you all for another year of success.

From all Staff and Trustee’s at Birmingham Irish Association.

Our offices are back open: Tuesday to Thursday - 10am to 3pm

Monday and Friday: Although our office is closed to the public on these two days, calls are still being taken by our team.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers – Introducing Peter Lloyd

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 14:20:19 GMT

Read Peters' Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Peter Lloyd

"I give my time to help in the computer club because I think it is important for people to learn new skills.

“Technology can be used for people to stay in touch with others and for individuals who are not mobile, it’s a lifeline! It’s great to be part of such a great group and team."

'Peter is a kind, loving and very giving person. He has been with us for a year now and makes a massive difference in the sessions!' – Terry Nash (Silver Surfers Project Lead)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email info@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 14:13:45 GMT

Cúpla Focal – Eanáir 2024

Athbhliain faoi mhaise a chairde! – Happy New Year everyone!

Tá súil agam go raibh Nollaig sona agaibh. Anois tá bliain nua againn agus deis tosú nua a dhéanamh – (A new year and a chance for a fresh start).

Here’s a seanfhocal (old saying) for you: Tús maith leath na hoibre - A good start is half the work.

Maybe you feel inclined to make a New Year Resolution (rún na hathbhliana) to connect or re-connect with the beautiful Irish language?

If so, here are a few ways to do so:

Gael Linn and Gaelcultúr offer classes on line at all levels. You can get a free trial on Ranganna.com or use their on-line multiple choice test to check where you’re at
Give Bitesize Irish a try – a fun way in at foundation level.
Duolingo is freely available – sign up and give it a try
RnG - Raidió na Gaeltachta – Irish language radio station
TG4 – Teilifís na Gaeilge – Irish language TV station
Consider booking yourself onto a course in the Gaeltacht this Summer – adult courses available in Kerry, Donegal and Connemara – steep yourself in the language or combine it with other activities in the most beautiful places in Ireland
If you’re a fan of the word game Waffle you may be interested in an Irish Language version called Seafóid
Nuacht Mhall – Podcast on Spotify – from Conradh na Gaeilge in London – the news read slowly in Irish!
Many, many other on-line programmes, songs in Irish, etc
Free classes and conversation groups on Zoom – Get in touch with Birmingham Irish Association
Read in Irish, listen to Irish, join a class or conversation group. If you can find a few hours in your week, give it a go
Get in touch for advice on appropriate courses or books at your level

Choose your direction, set your target and have fun with the language!

Le gach dea-ghuí agus beannachtaí i 2024,

Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Great to see last piece of Digbeth Metro track put in place

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 13:56:13 GMT

Happy New Year! I wanted to use my column this month to share some good news for 2024 about a major development in Digbeth, the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish Community. The final section of tram track has been welded into place in Digbeth, in a significant milestone for the Birmingham Eastside Metro extension.

This achievement signals the end of track laying and the current phase of construction along Digbeth High Street and follows the completion of works on the first section of the line at Lower Bull Street.

The Digbeth stretch of the route has also been enhanced with new paving, green infrastructure and landscaped areas as part of Birmingham City Council and the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership’s (GBSLEP) plan to regenerate the area.

With the full line now set to open later than planned due to HS2’s work at Curzon Street, plans have been also approved to allow a temporary terminus to be installed at Moor Street Queensway allowing passengers to start using part of the route by 2025/26.

I know just how important Digbeth is to our Irish Community, and I would like to thank all the businesses, residents and visitors for their patience during the work.

The completion of main construction along Digbeth High Street is fantastic news for those living and working there, and it’s wonderful to see how Digbeth has been transformed with the new track, paving and greenery.

Digbeth has always been an innovative, cultural and colourful place – right now it’s turning into the heart of our region’s media sector – and linking the area to our growing Metro network will bring even more connectivity and opportunity.

While there will still be some activity in the area, teams will of course continue to work closely with partners to minimise disruption wherever possible.

There is so much to look forward to this year in Digbeth in 2024, from the growing media hub in the area to the return of the St Patrick's Day parade – but this is a great way to start the year!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A Christmas wish from everyone at BIA

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:05:26 GMT

On behalf the board of trustees, I would like to wish our management team, staff, volunteers, funders, service users and all our stakeholders, a very warm and Happy Christmas, and to wish you all the very best for the new year ahead in 2024.

For the Birmingham Irish Association, it has been another successful year where the team have reached out to our growing community and supported so many people with complex referrals, applications, welfare, health, or through providing a welcoming smile.

“A year filled with so many wonderful events that helped promote the Irish language and culture. Those that stand out include the return of the hot food and drink to those in desperate need, the coming together to celebrate the creativity and talent of Irish women on St. Brigid’s Day, the logistical planning to host the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Cannon Hill Park that has put us in good stead for the return of the parade in 2024, The stunning contribution to host the Twilight Takeover in Centenary Square, the work of our wonderful dementia centres, the tireless support in helping our Clients, and to end the year bringing joy to so many children through the Christmas Toy Appeal”

The work you do is an incredible window on the Irish in Birmingham.

We are blessed to have such a vibrant team that take great pride in their work and it is a privilege to witness first-hand the impact that your work has on our wonderful community. Thank you!

Nollaig Shona agus Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh.

Pat O’Neil (Chair of Birmingham Irish Association)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Our front office will close on Friday 22nd December 2023 and all will reopen as normal on Tuesday 2nd January 2024 .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers – Introducing Chris Jennings

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:00:37 GMT

Read Chris' Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Chris Jennings

"BIA chose me! I came in on other business about 14 years ago and was invited to apply for office volunteer. I help out with all general aspects of the office. Being a volunteer is very good, but, volunteering for BIA feels like being back home in Ireland.

In the early days I met a lot of people from home, some I already knew.

I have previously helped out in the Dementia Centre too. My father lived with this so I was able to understand them."

'Chris has been here longer than me! She’s great with the public and our shop. Always happy and willing to help and gives us a fair few laughs too! She keeps us smiling’ - Catherine Kelly (Front Office Manager)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email info@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Update: The Birmingham Irish Association Toy Appeal 2023

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:59:26 GMT

Throughout the winter at Birmingham Irish Association we have re-introduced our Toy Appeal, which is focused on helping individuals and families who are struggling at Christmas due to the cost of living crisis.

With the help of GAA clubs, all Tolkien Primary schools and members of our community we have received an outstanding donation of toys again this year.

The response to our organisation’s appeals are always amazing, but this year with the crisis affecting even more people in our community it has touched our hearts to see the generosity and kindness that has been shown.

We have managed to deliver the toys to families in hope there will be lots of smiles this year on Christmas day, which would not be possible without the continued support we receive.

The Staff and Trustee’s at Birmingham Irish Association are truly grateful to everyone who has got involved, had amazing community spirit and made a difference to a child’s Christmas.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The St Patrick’s Parade returns, March 2024

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:52:01 GMT

The Birmingham St Patrick’s Parade will be returning to Bradford Street on Sunday 17th March 2024. Focusing on past old traditions and going back to the parade roots.

Keep an eye out for opportunities to support your parade.

Putting on a free event of this size does not come cheap - and so we are asking you to "give Saint Patrick a Christmas present."

Your donation, large or small, will help us to:

Support local schools to create their parade floats
Decorate the streets
And so much more

See information page here >

Brummie, Irish or both - you know how proud you are of your Festival! Please help us to make Saint Patrick hugely proud of Digbeth on his big day!

To donate to your much loved parade please click here ��

For all updates follow our St Patrick’s Parade social media pages:

Twitter - @stpatparadebham

Facebook - St Patrick’s Festival Birmingham

Instagram - @stpatsfest

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:47:40 GMT

Dia daoibh a chairde! Tá an Nollaig ag teacht!

Christmas is coming!

An Nollaig – Christmas

Oíche Nollag – Christmas Eve

Mí na Nollag – December

Fleasc Nollag – Christmas wreath

Bronntanas/Bronntanais – Present/Presents

Dráma na Nollag – Nativity play

Beannachtaí na Nollag – Christmas greetings

Crann Nollag – Christmas tree

Soilse Nollag – Christmas lights

Pléascóg(a) Nollag – Christmas cracker(s)

Daidí na Nollag/San Nioclás – Santa Claus

Maróg Nollag (le hanlann branda) – Christmas pudding (with brandy sauce)

Im branda – Brandy butter

Císte Nollag – Christmas cake

Dinnéar na Nollag – Christmas dinner

(A tiny bit of grammar – you may have noticed that Nollaig is sometimes spelt Nollag. That’s because it’s in the genitive case after a noun. Also, we tend to say Mí na Nollag for December to save confusion with Nollaig – Christmas)

An Mainséar – The Manger

Aingeal/Aingil – Angel/Angels

Íosagán – Baby Jesus

Muire agus Iósaf – Mary and Joseph

Na Trí Rí – The Three Kings

Ór, túis agus miorr – Gold, frankincense and myrrh

Aoire/Aoirí – Shepherd/Shepherds

Réinfhia - Reindeer

Nollaig shona (duit/daoibh) – Happy Christmas (to you singular/plural)

Nollaig faoi shéan agus faoi mhaise – Happy Christmas

Cuileann – Holly

Póg faoin drualus – A kiss under the mistletoe

Sneachta – Snow

Fear sneachta – Snowman

Lá Fhéile Stiofáin/Lá an Dreoilín – St Stephen’s Day

Oíche Chinn Bhliana – New Year’s Eve

Lá Caille (Lá na Bliana Úire) – New Year’s Day

Athbhliain sona sásta – Happy New Year

Nollaig na mBan – Little Christmas/Epiphany/Women’s Christmas

Athbhliain faoi shéan is faoi mhaise – Happy New Year.

Beannachtaí na bliana úire – New Year greetings

Nollaig shona agus Athbhliain faoi shéan agus faoi mhaise daoibh go leir!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Festive boost, courtesy of Commonwealth Games legacy

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:45:48 GMT

As the festive season arrives and the longer nights draw in, the wonderful sun-lit success of last summer’s Birmingham Commonwealth Games suddenly seems a million years ago.

But in this Christmas column, I want to tell you about how community groups across the region could get a New Year boost thanks to the legacy of the Games.

A £9 million pot of Commonwealth Games legacy cash is being made available for grassroots projects that will unite communities across the West Midlands and get local people more physically and mentally active.

Right now, community groups, charities, not-for-profit organisations, schools and colleges can bid for a share of the Inclusive Communities Fund - the biggest amount of legacy money to be given out in public grants.

Grants of between £500 and £300,000 are available for projects that will ensure the positive and long-lasting legacy from last summer’s Games is felt right across the region.

These could include improvements to local facilities, grassroots sports, community, arts and cultural events, and major projects. All must share the Fund’s goal of bringing people together, improving health and wellbeing, helping the region to grow, and putting the region on the map.

This money is being made available for the benefit of local people after the Government agreed to invest the £70 million Games underspend back into the region.

The Inclusive Communities Fund is being delivered by the WMCA in partnership with the Heart of England Community Foundation and United by 2022, the Official Games Legacy Charity .

With this new fund, we’re putting a significant amount of cash directly into the hands of local people in communities right across our region for them to decide exactly how to spend it.

Right from the moment the West Midlands was chosen to host the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, we were clear that the Games must leave a lasting legacy at grassroots level far beyond the summer of sporting spectacle. As we once again enjoy the season of goodwill, this money shows we’re delivering on that objective.

It’s something I think we can all welcome. May I wish you a very Merry Christmas.

For more details on applying for funds, click here: www.wmca.org.uk/what-we-do/commonwealth-games-legacy-enhancement-fund/inclusive-communities

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Update: Introducing the Birmingham Irish Association Toy Appeal 2023

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 19:00:43 GMT

It is that time of year again to begin preparations for the Birmingham Irish Association Toy Appeal 2023.

Christmas is slowly approaching, and there will be children in our community not receiving presents due to family finances. Please help us make this Christmas extra special and put a smile on a child's face.

If you know any families in need that may need to access our service, please get in touch with us.

We are now accepting kind donations of brand new toys for children ages 1 – 16 years, due to the rise in COVID cases all toys must be new and in original packaging.

If you would like to help us by donating, please use the contact details below:

Terry Nash (Project Lead) terry@birish.org.uk

Or please call Birmingham Irish Association front office on 0121 604 6111

Or visit our JustGiving page – Click here

Delivery Address

St Anne’s Club, Digbeth, B12 0PH

(Please contact us before making a delivery)

Let’s spread some Christmas and community spirit together!

For all toy appeal updates follow the Birmingham Irish Association social media pages below:

Facebook – Birmingham Irish Association
Instagram – birminghamirish
Twitter - @brumirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers - Introducing Julie Callaghan

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 18:59:00 GMT

Read Julie's Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Julie Callaghan

"My friend worked for BIA and suggested I join the team of office volunteers. I help with answering the phones, taking messages, sending emails and assisting with Irish Passport Applications.

"I have been here 5 years this August. I like helping out and supporting the Irish community in this small way. Volunteering and meeting people of all walks of life, at times, can be a sobering experience!"

'Julie knows exactly what she’s doing with everything within the office and can happily go along without any questions or help! A warm, happy edition to our day' - Catherine Kelly (Front Office Manager)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email info@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A massive thank you to the ‘Like Minded Ladies’

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 18:57:36 GMT

This month we would like to say a special thank you to a very special group of people. The ‘Like Minded Ladies’ from St Thomas Moore’s School recently held a coffee morning in aid of our Dementia services that are provided all across the city.

The wonderful ladies managed to raise a whopping £1720!

This donation to our service is going to make such a huge impact and will go a long way with supporting Birmingham Irish Association going forward.

We are very grateful to the ‘Like minded ladies’ who even dropped into one of our dementia services to deliver the cheque and meet our services users, volunteers and staff who are all delighted to receive such a generous donation.

We are also very grateful to the kind individuals who attended the coffee morning and supported our charity.

This support means the world to us! Without it, we would not be able to have the impact we do on our community.

To find out how to become a volunteer for our Dementia service(s) please contact our Volunteer Co-ordinator Roisin Mason via email roisin@birish.org.uk

If you would like a loved one to attend our Dementia service(s) please contact our Dementia centre Co-ordinator Sharon Toy via email sharon@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 18:50:26 GMT

Dia daoibh a chairde! Tá an Nollaig ag teacht!

Christmas is coming!

An Nollaig – Christmas

Oíche Nollag – Christmas Eve

Mí na Nollag – December

Fleasc Nollag – Christmas wreath

Bronntanas/Bronntanais – Present/Presents

Dráma na Nollag – Nativity play

Beannachtaí na Nollag – Christmas greetings

Crann Nollag – Christmas tree

Soilse Nollag – Christmas lights

Pléascóg(a) Nollag – Christmas cracker(s)

Daidí na Nollag/San Nioclás – Santa Claus

Maróg Nollag (le hanlann branda) – Christmas pudding (with brandy sauce)

Im branda – Brandy butter

Císte Nollag – Christmas cake

Dinnéar na Nollag – Christmas dinner

(A tiny bit of grammar – you may have noticed that Nollaig is sometimes spelt Nollag. That’s because it’s in the genitive case after a noun. Also we tend to say Mí na Nollag for December to save confusion with Nollaig – Christmas!)

An Mainséar – The Manger

Aingeal/Aingil – Angel/Angels

Íosagán – Baby Jesus

Muire agus Iósaf – Mary and Joseph

Na Trí Rí – The Three Kings

Ór, túis agus miorr – Gold, frankincense and myrrh

Aoire/Aoirí – Shepherd/Shepherds

Réinfhia - Reindeer

Nollaig shona (duit/daoibh) – Happy Christmas (to you singular/plural)

Nollaig faoi shéan agus faoi mhaise – Happy Christmas

Cuileann – Holly

Póg faoin drualus – A kiss under the mistletoe

Sneachta – Snow

Fear sneachta – Snowman

Lá Fhéile Stiofáin/Lá an Dreoilín – St Stephen’s Day

Oíche Chinn Bhliana – New Year’s Eve

Lá Caille (Lá na Bliana Úire) – New Year’s Day

Athbhliain sona sásta – Happy New Year

Nollaig na mBan – Little Christmas/Epiphany/Women’s Christmas

Athbhliain faoi shéan is faoi mhaise – Happy New Year.

Beannachtaí na bliana úire – New Year greetings

Nollaig shona agus Athbhliain faoi shéan agus faoi mhaise daoibh go leir!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: I’m determined to ensure Digbeth gets transport connections it needs

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 18:30:17 GMT

One of the things I have set out to do as Mayor of the West Midlands is build a world-class transport system for our region, and Digbeth – the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community – has often found itself at the centre of this ambition.

Digbeth is at the heart of so many transport routes, providing a home for National Express and with so many rail and road connections linking it with the wider region. And, of course, the development of the East Side Metro line will make it even better connected.

This month I want to use my column to explain why this important Metro line is set to be delayed due to HS2 – and the new plan that will ensure we still accelerate delivery of tram services to the east of Birmingham city centre.

The full line to Digbeth is now to open later than planned because construction work on the tram track through Curzon Street Station cannot begin until HS2 have handed over the site – which is not expected to be until 2026 at the earliest.

I found this very frustrating but was determined to ensure it didn’t mean work stopped. So, I tasked transport officials with finding a way to get trams running sooner.

That’s why I’m delighted we’ve found an innovative solution to part-opening the Eastside Metro extension, with a temporary terminus being installed next to Moor Street Queensway – with a stop at the Clayton Hotel enabling local people and businesses to start benefitting sooner. This approach means trams will be running here in 2025/2026.

Having recently opened the Wolverhampton city centre extension, we know just how popular these schemes are with the public - offering seamless connections to rail and bus services just as this extension will provide at Moor Street.

Crucially, on the other side of the HS2 site we’re making good progress, with work set to complete in Digbeth by the end of the year, while all the new and improved public spaces, built with funds from Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, are looking absolutely fantastic. The area is also becoming an exciting magnet for the creative industries, with the BBC set to relocate there and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight building a new studio there .

A new Digbeth is taking shape, and I’m determined that it gets the very best transport connections.

Short-term hurdles like this can be very frustrating, but completing the full Eastside extension to High St Deritend remains a top priority.

By coming up with innovative solutions, we aim to keep on track to deliver it as soon as possible.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing the Birmingham Irish Toy Appeal 2023

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:30:04 GMT

It is that time of year again to begin preparations for the Birmingham Irish Association Toy Appeal 2023.

If you know any families in need that may need to access our service, please get in touch with us.

We are now accepting kind donations of brand new toys for children ages 1 – 16 years, due to the rise in COVID cases all toys must be new and in original packaging.

If you would like to help us by donating please use the contact details below:

Terry Nash & Rachel Callaghan (Project Leads)

Or please call Birmingham Irish Association front office on 0121 604 6111

Or visit our JustGiving page – Click here

Delivery Address

St Anne’s Club, Digbeth, B12 0PH

(Please contact us before making a delivery)

Let’s spread some Christmas and community spirit together!

For all toy appeal updates follow the Birmingham Irish Association social media pages below:

Facebook – Birmingham Irish Association
Instagram – birminghamirish
Twitter - @brumirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers - Introducing Carmel Holleran

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:22:52 GMT

Read Carmel's Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Carmel Holleran

"Sr Teresa, who ran the Seniors Tuesday Club, was looking for volunteers so I started almost 20 years ago, helping in the kitchen & Dementia Centre. I now help once a week in the front office with day to day duties which saves on other resources too.

“I love being able to help the community which strengthens it. BIA brings people together, promotes growth & self-esteem. I couldn’t love the staff any more than I do. They are exceptional. I now also help run the Seniors Tuesday Club too with the wonderful Terry Nash. A man loved by all!"

'Carmel is a staple of BIA. She has been here longer than some of us and is our wonderful 'Work Mammy' She is great with both staff and clients and is ready to help in any way! We couldn’t be without her' - Catherine Kelly (Front Office Manager)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email info@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Update: Foreign Birth Registration Witness Service

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:17:23 GMT

Unfortunately, at present Birmingham Irish Association are unable to witness any FBR/Citizenship Applications. This is due to a recent issue at their office which we are waiting to be resolved.

We have been signing these applications as well as Passport applications for many years now without any problems and can still continue with the Passport witnessing.

This means that some applications that are being processed now that have been completed in the last 12 months will be paused and the applicant will be asked to find another witness.

We know how frustrating this must be after an already lengthy process and will keep you updated as soon as we know more.

We are still able to complete your applications and check your documents should you wish us to do so and there is no charge for this service.

Details of other witnesses can be found on the Department of Foreign Affairs website - Click here

If you would like further information, then please get in touch via catherine@birish.org.uk or call our office on 01216046111 Monday – Friday between 10am & 2pm

Links you may find useful:

Passport Service Updates Page - www.dfa.ie/passportonline
General information regarding passport applications - www.dfa.ie/passports/questions
General information regarding Foreign Birth Registrations - www.dfa.ie/citizenship/born-abroad/registering-a-foreign-birth

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:14:27 GMT

Cúpla Focal

Dia daoibh a chairde. Hello everyone. This month let’s get to grips with technology – teicneolaíocht - or at least some of the most common terms in Irish.

Ríomhaire – computer (Not a new word at all! The word ríomhaire can be found in nineteenth century dictionaries, though then it meant someone who could compute, or was good at sums).

Ríomhaire glúine – laptop (A computer on the knee)

luch – mouse (no change there)

ceangaltán – attachment

cáipéis – document

clóscríobh – typing (clós means to print; scríobh means to write)

scáileán – screen

víreas – virus (I guess you know that one!)

ríomhphost – e-mail (computer post)

seoladh ríomhpoist (e-mail address)

comhad – file (silent m)

turscar – spam (can also mean seaweed or rubbish)

an t-idirlíon – the internet

suíomh gréasáin – website (unlike a cobweb, which is leaba damhan alla – a spider’s bed)

teachtaireacht téacs (text message)

méarchlár – keyboard (méar is a finger)

guthán póca – mobile phone

Here are a few phrases you might use when talking about emails:

Fuair mé ríomhphost uaidh aréir (I got an e-mail message from him last night)
Seolaim a lán ríomhphoist gach lá (I send a lot of emails every day)
An bhfuair tú mo ríomhphost? (Did you get my e-mail?)

Tá an Nollaig at teacht! Christmas is coming! Next time we’ll look at a few terms to help with Christmas greetings as Gaeilge!

Go dtí sin – till then…

Beir bua,

Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Hundreds back campaign to protect our much-loved pubs

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:06:41 GMT

Pubs have always been a key part of the cultural life of Birmingham and the West Midlands. In this column, I want to tell you about a brilliant scheme that is asking members of the public to suggest much-loved locals that could receive special protection, to save them from closure.

The response to the project has been remarkable. In the space of a few weeks, the ‘List Your Local’ campaign , organised by the WMCA and Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has received more than 155 nominations.

In fact, the scheme has proved so popular that no less than 50 of the nominations have come from outside the West Midlands – from as far away as Newcastle. Some much-loved local pubs received multiple nominations.

The result is that there are 65 individual pubs here in the West Midlands now on the list. Of these, 25 are considered so valuable they already have Historic England heritage listed status. However, the remaining 40 have no protection at all.

A prime example can be found in the heart of Digbeth, the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community. The Spotted Dog is an example of a heritage establishment that is not historically listed, which is no doubt why the community has nominated it for inclusion.

Together, the WMCA and CAMRA have drawn up a ‘target list’ of suitable heritage pubs, which, alongside the public’s recommendations, will be examined on a case-by-case basis to see if and how they can be protected. Options include heritage listing, asset of community value listing, or community ownership.

It goes without saying that the shocking situation with the Crooked House in the Black Country highlighted just how easily even famous old pubs can be lost.

Pubs are so often the heart and soul of our communities, and, with your help, we can help protect these wonderfully historic buildings and give them a more secure future. I’m sure we’d all raise a glass to that .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

St Patrick’s Day Parade 2024 returns to Digbeth

Maurice@birish.org.uk (Maurice Malone) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 11:01:57 GMT

Birmingham Irish Association are pleased to bring the St Patricks Day festival under its remit.

Anyone that attended the Pairc Festival over the August 2023 Bank Holiday weekend will have heard the tremendous news that the St. Patrick’s Parade will return to Digbeth on Sunday 17th March 2024, with the intent for this to take place annually .

In March 2023, Maurice Malone, Chief Executive of Birmingham Irish Association said;

“Birmingham Irish Association are pleased to bring the annual Birmingham St Patricks Day festival under its remit and will take the opportunity to review, refresh and refocus the Parade, revitalised in the 1990’s. In no small way we believe the St Patrick’s Day festival and the Irish community helped to keep Digbeth alive and turn it into the vibrant cultural area it is today, but due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control it will not happen in this location in 2023.

“We aim to secure the Parade for future generations and showcase all Irish Traditional culture, music, dance, language and Gaelic sports, and the contribution of the Irish community to Birmingham. BIA will be working with participants, partners and Birmingham City Council to see what is feasible given timeframes and budget pressures and location issues. Discussions are in the early stages and no firm decisions have been made.”

We will be releasing more information as we move closer to the event which will be shared via social media and our website updates .

We hope many will come out and celebrate with us next year.

For upcoming parade updates check out our page here - www.birish.org.uk/stpatricks-parade

See Birmingham Irish Association social media pages below:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/BrumIrish

Twitter - www.twitter.com/brumirish

Instagram - www.instagram.com/birminghamirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our volunteers - Introducing Peter Costello

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 10:52:03 GMT

Read Peter's Story Below…

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER: Peter Costello

"I was interested in volunteering for an organisation in my local area plus it was helping the Birmingham Irish Community. I volunteer 1 day a week at Cotteridge Dementia Centre and once a fortnight at the BIA front office.

"I have been here around 2 years now. Ive met some great people and enjoy getting involved in different BIA activities."

'Peter can turn his hand to anything within the office and is a truly very welcomed help! We love to hear the stories of his travels and it brightens up our day!' - Catherine Kelly (Front Office Manager)

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Birmingham Irish Association, please email info@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A few words of Irish Language

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 10:42:17 GMT

Cúpla Focal

Dia daoibh a chairde!

As it’s the beginning of a new academic year, I thought this month I would talk to you about the learning opportunities that are out there for learners of all levels from total beginners to those who are already Irish speakers and would like to hold conversations with other Irish speakers or share the reading of Irish language literature.

If you are happy to learn with others on Zoom, we have weekly classes as follows:

Monday: 6.15pm – a class for post-beginners – if you have already learnt a little and want to continue to build your vocabulary and become more fluent. (taught by Nollag Ó Dúgain who is based in Leamington Spa)

Wednesday: 2.30pm – a reading and conversation group for those of at least intermediate level. (Group lead by Joe O’Reilly who is based in Manchester)

Wednesday: 6.30pm – beginners/post-beginners. Most people in this group have been learning for about a year. (I teach this group myself – Terri Lynk)

Wednesday: 8pm – a group for intermediate level – we are reading and translating short stories. (taught by Terri)

Saturday: 9am – Intermediate reading and grammar – we are reading An Triail by Mairéad Ní Ghráda. (Terri)

Saturday: 10.30am – Beginners. This group is ideal for total beginners

(Terri)

Sunday: 7pm – Higher level group (lead by Dom Buckley – based in Liverpool)

As well as all these classes on Zoom, there is a live session with Pat Duffy at The Emerald Club in Wolverhampton on Thursdays at 7pm. This is at a higher level.

Live classes also take place every Tuesday from 7pm at all levels at St Kentigern’s Club in Fallowfield, Manchester.

All of the above are free although you will probably be expected

to buy a book or two!

A Date for your Diary!

Irish Language Day at Leicester Irish Centre on 1st October 10am-4pm. There will be classes available for beginners and intermediates. Fee for the day is £10 including lunch.

I hope you find something to suit you there! If you are interested get in touch with me, Terri, through Birmingham Irish Association. Email sinead@birish.org.uk with any enquiries.

Tús maith leath na hoibre: A good start is half the work!

Beir bua.

Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: I can’t wait to join the celebrations when Brum’s St Patrick’s Day Parade returns

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 10:40:32 GMT

It’s coming back! The St Patrick's Day parade is set to return after a three-year hiatus next year, and I wanted to use my column this month to congratulate and thank everyone at the Birmingham Irish Association for making it happen.

I promised back in March that I would support Maurice Malone and the team at the BIA in their efforts to get the parade back, and I’m delighted that it’s happening.

We all know that the Covid-19 pandemic - followed by the roadworks in Digbeth - meant this hugely popular event, which attracted about 80,000 people, has not been held since 2019.

The Birmingham parade dates back to 1952, was one of the first in Britain and, for a time, and was reckoned at one point to be the third biggest in the world.

The returning parade is being supported by Pairc Festival next year, which is a celebration of Irish music and culture, and will launch its 2024 event on the same day.

The Parade is not only a hugely important calendar date for our Irish community, but also one of those brilliant, iconic events that illustrate the real cultural diversity and unity of the city and our region.

Now, the planning and organising starts. The event will take place on St Patrick's Day itself, 17 March, and be accompanied by a festival and concerts, with artists including Keith Duffy, Brian McFadden and Nathan Carter performing across the weekend.

After the huge success of the Commonwealth Games, Birmingham is attracting more and more visitors. The welcome return of the St Patrick’s Day Parade to our annual calendar of events provides another vibrant, colourful attraction that shows off the city at its very best.

I know that the BIA will be working hard already to organise a memorable Parade, which will once again see thousands take to the streets to celebrate this very special day for our Irish community. I can’t wait to join in the celebrations .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

‘We Built This City’ – Birmingham Irish Twilight Takeover

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:39:14 GMT

Birmingham Festival 2023 has now come to an end, which was in celebration of the one year anniversary for the Birmingham Commonwealth games 2022.

This festival was held in Centenary Square from 28th July until 6th August, each evening there was a “Twilight Takeover” from 7pm – 9pm in which, Opus offered different organisations the chance to take over the stage with a 2 hour spectacle performance. Birmingham Irish Association and Ceol Creatives completed the Twilight Takeover on Monday 31st July.

Visit the Official website ‘That’s a Wrap’ : Click here

We would like to say thank you to Birmingham Festival 23, OPUS & Birmingham City Council for giving us the opportunity to bring the Irish culture to our wonderful City. The 2 hour show was a huge success, with every talented artist taking the stage by storm .

A special thank you to Jobe Baker-Sullivan, Sinead McTernan & Trudy McGroarty for having the vision and completing lots of hard work behind the scenes, in order to produce the extravaganza of the Irish in our community who we are very proud of.

We would also like to say a massive thank you to our phenomenal team of Irish musicians and performers:

AJ (Our fantastic poetry artist and narrator for the evening)
Bishop Challoner School (Artists & Teachers)
BC Past Pupils - Ellie & Fiona
Birmingham Irish Pipes & Drums Band
Birmingham Irish Association - Ramblers Group
Birmingham Irish Association - Staff, Trustee's & Volunteers
Joe Cook (Spoken word artist)
Birmingham Comhaltas
Scanlons Irish Dancing School
Juniper Band
The McGrath Family
Jack Banting
Production team & photographers
Rebecca Phillips (OPUS - Senior Producer)

The TeamWORK & TeamSPIRIT lead to our TeamSUCCESS ��

Lastly, the amazing audience that continued to sing and dance with us despite the weather… And what a celebration it was.

To see more highlights from this fantastic evening check out our social media pages below:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/BrumIrish

Twitter - www.twitter.com/brumirish

Instagram - www.instagram.com/birminghamirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Maryvale Dementia Centre Day Trip to Rhyl

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:34:59 GMT

Sandwell Irish Society kindly invited some of our Maryvale members to attend a day trip to Rhyl last month. The weather was fantastic.

Read all about the brilliant day below:

We first went to St Winefrides well and chapel in Holywell. Where we all dipped our feet in the natural spring water it is meant to have healing properties. It was freezing but it felt very calming.
We then went onto Rhyl where we all had a stroll along the sea front, Carmel brought along her bucket and spade and built a sand castle in the sand and dipped her feet in the sea.
We had a pub lunch at a pub which was on the sea front and had the perfect view of the sea while we had our fish and chips and this went down a treat.
We then had a walk into the town and had a stroll around the gift shops.
To finish the day we all had ice cream in the sunshine before getting on the coach to go home.

We are so pleased that everyone had a lovely day and a special thank you to Sandwell Irish for thinking of us.

Get in touch…

If you would like some more information about our Dementia services please contact our Dementia Support Worker Sharon:

Email – sharon@birish.org.uk

Or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer for our wonderful service please contact our Volunteer Co-ordinator Roisin:

Email – roisin@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The ChIrish Project event

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:29:07 GMT

To bring our fantastic BNO social inclusion ‘ChIrish’ project to an end, we had an exclusive Irish experience full of dancing, food, drinks and activities for our new friends from Hong Kong.

The day started at 11am giving everyone involved time to get into their groups and socialise in a relaxed and calm atmosphere, we decorated the tables and chairs with a mixture of Irish colours with Chinese lantern centre pieces which were positively commented on.

At 12pm we had a lunch of Irish stew, brack, crusty bread and soft rolls, this was complemented with a taster of Guinness, Mangers, Nash’s lemonade and Cidona apple flavoured soft drink. For desserts we had thick filled apple pie and fruit salad with cream and custard.

After a delicious lunch we asked the participants (a table at a time) to come and judge the pictures that were taken over the three-month period, with an entry of two pictures per person. After a scrupulous half hour of judging, winners were chosen, with one participant winning three times with a beautiful picture of Birmingham’s main land canal.

Giving the winners their very well-deserved prizes, we then continued the day with an Irish step dancing lessons, not a single person sat out of the lessons, with everyone now on the floor we were taught in groups of four the beginnings of the dance before moving onto the harder steps.

The room was filled with laughter during what we can only describe as a “dance of completely innocent joy”. Overall, it was a brilliant day, new friendships were made and everyone went home with huge smiles .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:25:20 GMT

Dia Daoibh a chairde!

I’ve been visiting the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area of Ireland) this Summer and have been reminded of some Nathanna Cainte (idioms) and useful phrases that I would like to share with you!

Is fiú ór í (She’s worth her weight in gold)
Las sí san aghaidh (Her face lit up – she blushed)
Ar ais ar do bhonnaí (Back to your old self – literally, back on your toes)
Tá mo theanga amuigh (I’m thirsty – literally, My tongue is out)
Gan duine, gan daoine (All alone)
Briseann an duchas trí shúile an chait (A chip off the old block)
An rud a bhíos sa chú bíonn sé sa choileán (Similar to above really – literally, What’s in the hound is in the pup – Like father, like son)
Ar mhuin na muice (On the pig’s back – doing very well!)
Is iomaí lá ag uaigh orainn (We’ll be many days in the grave – i.e., Life’s too short)
D’imigh sin agus tháinig seo (Those days are gone)
As baile isteach (A blow-in; an outsider)
Bhí a raibh aici ar ais (Everything she had was on show – a scantily-clad girl!)
Tá an leabharlann faoi scread asail den teach (The library is within a donkey’s roar of the house, ie very close)
Anoir aduaidh (a surprise, but literally means North East)

And finally, if you want to tell someone to mind their own business, try this tongue-twister:

Ná bac le mac an bhacaigh agus ní bhacfaidh mac an bhacaigh leat.

Try learning a few of them!!

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath – see you soon!

Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: We’re so proud to have produced the Gaelic Football World Champions

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:23:57 GMT

I’ve written often in this column about the hugely valuable cultural contribution the Irish community in Birmingham makes to life in our region.

Our Irish community is known for its musical and artistic prowess, as well as for the community outreach projects and charitable organisations that have supported people for so many years.

But in this column, I want to focus on Irish sport – which over the years has provided so many homegrown stars, from the likes of Jack Grealish to gymnast Alice Kinsella, who took Gold at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

In particular, I want to focus on our latest superstars – the newly-crowned West Midlands-based world Gaelic Football champions.

Just a few weeks ago, Sean McDermott’s, the Gaelic Football Club, went undefeated at the GAA Games to become world champions.

Already the All-Britain Homegrown Gaelic Football Champions, the team won the International Cup Final in Derry after overcoming an excellent team from France.

The Sean McDermott’s players, who are all 2nd or 3rd generation Irish, went undefeated in the tournament against top teams from Spain, France, Argentina, Canada, America and Australia.

This amazing achievement, which places our region right at the pinnacle of Gaelic Sports, is testament to the dedication of the coaching staff and the entire Irish sporting community here.

Now let’s use it as a launchpad to achieve even more. Crucial to ongoing success will be the redevelopment of Warwickshire GAA's Páirc na hÉireann.

This venue has hosted numerous Warwickshire Gaelic football and hurling matches as well as the provincial knockout championships and the British University Gaelic football Championships, as well as welcoming hurling teams from Ireland .

I put my full support behind these redevelopment ambitions, because I understand how important the game is to the Irish community. I have also been hugely impressed by the way Páirc na hÉireann provides a facility for the whole community.

This is a place that is not only a venue for elite level players, it also opens its doors to host charity tournaments, where the next generation of local Gaelic football stars take to the field.

It’s a huge honour for the West Midlands to host Pairc na hÉireann, as it is not only the home of the GAA in Warwickshire but the whole of Britain.

It has 3,000 volunteer members and attracts people from across Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton to engage in Gaelic football, hurling and camogie.

We now have the world champions right here in the West Midlands. Let’s complete the redevelopment of Pairc na hÉireann, and ensure we have the facilities to continue creating sports heroes we can be proud of.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We Built This City

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 11:25:58 GMT

We Built This City uses oral histories recorded in conversations with 35 Irish immigrants, photographs, archive footage and reconstructions to convey the experiences of the Irish immigrant population that flocked to the city to work on building sites, in road construction, on railways and buses, and in hospitals and factories.

A former employee of Birmingham Irish Association Yvonne Price, was a project co-ordinator for the exhibition, she was born in Birmingham to Irish parents who came to the city from Kildare .

The Heritage Lottery-funded project took 12 months to put together, and the exhibition, which opened on 11 March 2017, was extended to run until 4 June 2017 at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

Birmingham Irish produced a documentary named 'We Built This City' which is available to watch on YouTube, Click here .

The Birmingham Irish Association website has a dedicated section to this project in which you can read the background and find extracts from stories by contributors. Click here .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Our Community Food Bank & Parcels service has now come to an end

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 11:11:16 GMT

During the COVID lockdown we were able to serve the community by setting up our very own food bank , with the addition of hot meal deliveries to individuals and families that could not leave the house. The food bank was massively successful during that period of time.

In January 2023, our organisation was happy to announce we received an emergency food aid grant for a duration of 6 months.

The grant enabled us to reopen our doors, each month the need for this service was increasing and we served a total of 935 members of the community in Birmingham. We offered hot food and food parcels each week on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays.

This service has now come to an end, it was a huge success and we managed to reach out to the people most in need in our local community.

A massive thank you to our staff that made this service run smoothly each week and ensure the equal distribution of the food parcels. We received amazing feedback and it was lovely to see the smiles on the service user's faces.

A special thank you to Iceland Harborne for donating over 250+ carrier bags to help us with the distribution of food parcels.

Trudy McGroarty (Service Manager)

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 11:09:02 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Dia Daoibh a chairde! Conas atá sibh?

An mí seo táimid ag caint faoi an aimsir.

Faoi láthair tá aimsir iontach deas againn! (At present we have lovely weather)

Ach cad faoi… (but what about…)

Toirneach agus tintreach – thunder and lightning

Tá sé stoirmiúil – it is stormy

Meirbh – close, sultry- uncomfortably hot!

Fearthainn/báisteach – rain

Brothallach - sweltering

We do get a little rain in Ireland and we therefore have quite a few interesting expressions to describe it. Here are a few examples you might like to put to use:

Tá cosulacht bhaistí air - it looks like rain
Tá sé ag caitheamh sceana gréasaí – it’s raining cats and dogs (literally it is raining cobbler’s knives!)
Nuair a thig cith tig balc – It never rains but it pours.
Tá mé fliuch báite – I’m soaking wet.
Is lá salach é – a dirty day – one of those days of non-stop rain!
Is lá bog é – it’s a soft day – still raining!
Tá sé ag stealladh báistí – It is pouring with rain
Scammalach – cloudy

Let’s look at some better conditions:

Tá an lá:
go maith - good
ar fheabhas – excellent
lá breá – a fine day
Tá an ghrian ag taitneamh
Lá gréine – a sunny day
Tá an aimsir nios teo – the weather is warm

Hint for learning: Féach nó éist ar Réamhaisnéis na haimsire (The Weather Forecast) on TG4 or listen to RnaG. See how many words you can recognise!

Bain sult as an Samhradh agus na laethanta saoire! (Enjoy the Summer and the holidays!)

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Mental health support to help us thrive in life

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 11:07:09 GMT

Life can be stressful. In the wake of the pandemic, and with the pressures of the cost of living, many are feeling the pressures of modern life. Sometimes, we all need a little help.

I know our region’s Irish community is renowned for its caring attitude, whether it’s through charity programmes, church groups or simply neighbours looking out for each other.

After all, we all want to live in a mentally healthier West Midlands, in which our children thrive at school, students thrive in college and adults thrive at work and home.

In this column I want to tell you about an important new independent report into our region’s mental health, and the plans we have to address its findings.

Carried out by the region’s second Mental Health Commission, the report looked into the impact of the pandemic.

It highlighted a number of areas where more support was needed, from an increase in demand for children’s mental health services to helping people take part in physical activity, which is proven to be good for mental wellbeing.

In response, the West Midlands Combined Authority has decided to expand its brilliant Thrive programme, which has already supported 4,000 people with long-term health issues find and retain jobs, and 550 businesses commit to improving staff wellbeing.

Now a new programme – called Thrive at College – will offer support to 19 to 23-year-olds with mental health and wellbeing while they are at college .

And that’s not all. We have also ringfenced £3 million from the Commonwealth Games Legacy Enhancement Fund’s Community Grant programme for community-led schemes that promote physical activity and wellbeing, and a further £2 million will be used to help grow the region’s social economy, to help create self-sustainable communities.

This action is on top of the work that our partners, some of whom sat on the Commission, are also doing to address mental health in the region. This includes community wellbeing programmes to support people understand and improve their own mental health, tackling poor and overcrowded housing, reducing loneliness and isolation, and bringing people together through community hubs, football and gardening sessions.

Mental health is no longer a subject that people feel awkward speaking about, and after the difficulties of the pandemic, everyone is more aware of the importance of wellbeing.

With investments like this, and with the help of caring communities like Birmingham’s Irish community, we can work together to help ensure everyone has the chance to thrive in life.

More about West Midlands Mental Health Commission: Click here

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Celebrating Volunteer Week 1st to 7th June 2023: Celebrate and Inspire

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 09:07:52 GMT

2023 marks the 39th year of Volunteers’ Week, when Birmingham Irish Association joined thousands of charities and voluntary organisations recognising the contribution volunteers make across the UK. With this year’s theme of ‘Celebrate and Inspire’ we hope to encourage people to be the change that we want to see and get involved in volunteering in whatever way works for them.

The contribution of volunteers is often unseen and unrecognised by many, visible only through the incredible impact of their volunteering, so taking the time during Volunteers’ Week to celebrate their efforts and all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector and society as a whole has never been more important.

Volunteer Co-ordinator, Róisín Mason said:

“Volunteers' Week is a chance to celebrate and recognise the fantastic contribution our volunteers make. Our dementia centre service users benefit immensely from their company, those seeking advice and help receive a warm welcome from our office volunteers and our activities volunteers help to ease the effects of social isolation. Volunteers are the life blood of our organisation.”

CEO of Birmingham Irish Association - Maurice Malone said:

“As it is Volunteers Week I would like to thank you for all the wonderful work you do for us at Birmingham Irish Association. The compassion you show to the people we serve is an inspiration for us all. I've noticed how you treat everyone with respect and kindness, no matter what the situation is. We both know how stressful it can be for the people who find themselves in need of the services we provide, and your words and actions go a long way towards helping them keep their dignity. I just want you to know that your work hasn't gone unnoticed. Once again thank you for all that you do.”

Service Manager - Trudy McGroarty said:

"We pride ourselves here at BIA to be able to provide an adequate and efficient service to the Irish community in Birmingham. This could not be achieved without the loyal, committed and hard work our volunteers display every day, whether it be supporting our Dementia Services or indeed our busy front office for Irish passport enquiries and much more! We want to thank each and every one of them for their continuous support over the years, and many more to come."

If you would like to join our team, for more information contact;

Roisin (Volunteer Co-Ordinator) via email roisin@birish.org.uk

Check out our volunteer celebrations on our social media pages;

Facebook - www.facebook.com/BrumIrish

Twitter - www.twitter.com/brumirish

Instagram - www.instagram.com/birminghamirish

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Gypsy, Roma Traveller History Month 2023

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 09:00:43 GMT

Thursday 1st June 2023 marked the first day of Gypsy, Roma Traveller History Month.

“Every June since 2008, people from across the UK have celebrated Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. Through celebration, education and raising awareness, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month helps to tackle prejudice, challenge myths and to amplify the voices of Gypsies, Roma and Travellers in wider society."

This year the theme for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month is “Weaving Journeys: A celebration of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller lives, histories and cultures.”

Further resources can be found by clicking here

For all the schools in our area, we have linked a wonderful resource from our friends at the charity Friends, Families and Travellers.

This pack will take you on a journey of discovery, enabling you to learn more about the rich history and culture of the Travelling community. You'll find resources such as a competition for children to design their own patterns, or a how-to guide on raising awareness of and celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month.

See the pack here

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 08:56:44 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Dia daoibh a chairde!

We recently had our second monthly Pop-up Gaeltacht in Norton’s bar in Digbeth. It was a great success, and everyone seemed to enjoy the event. We are holding these events at Norton’s on the second Sunday of each month, starting at 1pm. The aim is to give Irish speakers an opportunity to speak to other Irish speakers and for those with just a few words to try it out in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

This month, therefore, I would like to leave you with some useful phrases and conversation starters.

Dia duit – Hello (and the answer of course is Dia is Muire duit!)

Introduce yourself by saying: Is mise Seán/Máire (I’m Seán/Máire)

Cad is ainm duit? (What’s your name?)

Deas bualadh leat – nice to meet you.

Conas atá tú? - how are you?

You can answer with – Tá mé go maith go raibh maith agat (I’m fine thanks)

Agus tú féin? - and yourself?

Cá bhfuil tú i do chónaí? (Where do you live?)

Answer with: Tá mé i mo chónaí in Warmley/Coventry, etc)

To offer someone a drink, say: Ar mhaith leat deoch? (would you like a drink?)

The answer is: Ba mhaith (yes) or Níor mhaith (no)

Try not to confuse the above with another useful question: An maith leat ceol?

(Do you like music?)

The answer in this case is: Is maith (yes) ní maith (no)

ceol – music

ceol traidisiúnta – traditional music

peil – football (Gaelic)

sacar – sacar

iománaíocht – hurling

rugbaí

An bhfuil páistí agat? (Do you have children?)

Answer is Tá (yes) Níl (no)

Questions beginning with AN BHFUIL are always answered with TÁ or Níl.

An dtéann tú go dtí an phictiúrlann? Do you go to the cinema?

An éisteann tú le ceol? Do you listen to music?

Is maith liom rugbaí a imirt – I like to play rugby

Is breá liom peil – I love Gaelic football

Is maith liom dul chuig seisiúin cheoil – I like to go to music sessions

Níl suim ar bith agam i leadóg – I have no interest in tennis

Join us next month and try out some of your Irish words or come and listen!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Tree planting is making our region greener and healthier

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 08:55:28 GMT

Everyone wants to live in a healthier, happier, greener world – and one of the ways to help achieve that goal is quite simply to plant more trees.

In this column, I want to share the good news that here in the West Midlands we are showing our commitment to the environment by planting trees at a rate of 300 a day - and I want to encourage Birmingham’s Irish community to get involved and help turn Brum green.

More than 320,000 trees have now been registered on the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Virtual Forest, which allows people to record when they have planted a tree. That’s an increase of 120,000 over the past 12 months.

Trees remove carbon from the air, they reduce problems of flooding, they act as a filter for pollution, they encourage wildlife and contribute to the general quality of life of a community.

As we face the increasing effects of climate change, and work towards becoming a net zero region within the next two decades, these benefits have never been more vital.

Since January 2020, the WMCA has been encouraging residents and businesses to make their own contribution by registering the trees they have planted on the Virtual Forest.

Since then, we’ve been planting 100,000 trees each and every year right across our region .

I’ve had the chance to plant some trees myself over the past year during visits we’ve made to communities doing some amazing work to protect, restore and enhance our natural environment for the benefit of us all. So, if anyone has planted a tree in the past year and has yet to add it to our Virtual Forest, I would encourage them to do so.

Thanks to the thousands of trees that are being planted, Birmingham and the West Midlands are getting greener every day. I know I can rely on our Irish community to play their part in this remarkable project, which will bring benefits for generations to come.

To register a tree on the Virtual Forest visit: www.wmvirtualforest.co.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Kevin McCaughey’s memorial dance raised £1,270 for our Dementia Centre’s

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 23 May 2023 09:37:42 GMT

Kevin McCaughey’s memorial dance was held in St Francis on Saturday 15th April.

Birmingham Irish Association would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who supported the memorial dance, with an outstanding donation of £1,270 going towards our Dementia services across the city.

The kind donation going towards our dementia centres is going to have a huge impact and make such a massive difference to the service that we provide each week Monday to Friday. This service is one of many important existing projects here at Birmingham Irish Association.

Each year, with the help of gracious donations, we are able to significantly expand our reach in the community we serve. We would like to say thank you to everyone who was involved we really appreciate the community support.

For more info on how you can help us or we can help you please contact one of our centre Coordinator’s below:

Monday, Wednesday & Thursday contact Sharon Toy – sharon@birish.org.uk
Tuesday & Friday contact Ruth Geoghegan – ruth@birish.org.uk

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members”

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A message from Caroline Brogan (outgoing BIA Trustee)

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 23 May 2023 09:34:08 GMT

It will always be the honour and privilege of my life to have served our wonderful Birmingham Irish community. From the moment I first walked through the doors I was overwhelmed by the kindness around me, and it was immediately clear that I’d found my second family. I will always be fiercely proud and in awe of the marvellous work that the Birmingham Irish Association do.

When I first started volunteering with BIA, over 7 years ago, the plan was just to volunteer now and then with the free legal advice clinics set up by the wonderful Mark Lennon at Irwin Mitchell; providing vital access to justice to those in need.

The energy and good values that underpin everything BIA do was infectious and I couldn’t help but get more and more involved, from fundraising, to later taking over the management of the free legal advice clinics. I was so proud to be invited, in 2019, to join the BIA Board as a voluntary Trustee.

A year later, you stood shoulder to shoulder with me when I represented the family of Margaret Keane, pro bono, in their successful landmark legal battle for equality and Irish language rights .

Over the last 7 years, BIA has grown substantially. Our out-reach work has changed the lives of so many wonderful people, particularly the foodbanks provided during the Covid lockdowns. We’ve put BIA firmly on the map and have won so many prestigious awards between us.

Our CEO, Maurice Malone, was appointed by President Michael D. Higgins to the Council of State in Ireland, in recognition of the importance of BIA’s work for the Irish Diaspora.

BIA continues to grow and there are many opportunities for the coming decades. In the circumstances, although my heart can never really leave this place, I do have to reflect on the level of increased responsibility that comes with natural growth and whether, given all the other offices that I hold, whether I can continue to give what you all truly deserve. So, the responsible thing to do is to step back from more official duties with BIA.

Therefore, with a very heavy heart, I have asked the Board at BIA to accept my resignation as Trustee.

I will never completely step away from BIA as my heart is here and I will still very much be involved with the amazing work we do. In particular, I’m still working with the team on other projects, including events to mark the importance of the 25th anniversary of The Good Friday Agreement; looking back on where we have come and where we are going for the future – so watch this space.

BIA is not just an organisation; it is a charity for the people, by the people. All those who dedicate their work, and volunteer their time are the beating heart of BIA and will always be my dear friends.

Oh, and one more thing… MAYO FOR SAM!!

Le gach dea-ghuí

Caroline Brogan

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

BIA represented at The King and Queen’s Coronation

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 23 May 2023 09:28:45 GMT

Birmingham Irish Association were delighted to have been chosen to represent our community at the Coronation of His Majesty the King & Her Majesty the Queen Consort on the 6th May at Westminster Abbey.

The invite was in recognition of the response during the pandemic and the coming together of all sections of the Irish community to support those who were most in need.

From the GAA clubs and the business community to the countless volunteers and members of the Irish community in the region who supported our organisation during unprecedented times. We are extremely proud to accept this invitation and are humbled to be able to represent you all on the day .

With special thanks to …

Sean McDermotts Gaa
Eringobragh Gaa
John Mitchels GAA
St Brendan’s GAA
Birmingham UK West Midlands Irish Business Group
TOLKIEN Primary Schools
Irish Embassy London
Irish Foreign Ministry
Martin & Annette Logan - Irish In The UK TV
Scanlon School of Irish Dancing
Kidd School of Irish Dancing
Hennessey's Bar Birmingham
The Old Crown
Norton’s Digbeth
The Irish Centre Birmingham
Andy Street
Justice for the 21
Anthony Routley – Blues Central Travel
Friel Homes
Court Collaboration
M. Lambe Construction Limited
Kiely Bros Ltd
Birmingham City Council
Birmingham Irish Cycle Appeal

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: The Mayor’s Community Weekend is back!

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 23 May 2023 09:25:04 GMT

Birmingham’s Irish folk are renowned for their community spirit. Whether it’s through arts and music festivals, valuable charity work, major events like the St Patrick’s Day parade or smaller get togethers where people simply gather to share a kind word, the Irish community has always made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the city and the wider region.

In this column, I want to tell you about a big, region-wide community event that I’m sure many will want to get involved with – and the funding that is available if you do.

The Mayor’s Community Weekend is back. This brilliant event was put on hold during the pandemic, but this year – on the weekend of Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September – it will once again provide a chance for people to come together to celebrate the strength and diversity of West Midlands’ communities.

Altogether, £150,000 of National Lottery funding is being made available for events and activities that bring communities together to strengthen existing connections and give them opportunities to make new ones.

Grants ranging from £500 to £2,000 will be on offer to all areas of the West Midlands.

These events and activities could be anything from community gatherings such as picnics and celebrations, litter picks, volunteering, through to sports and cultural events.

I believe the diverse communities right across our region are a remarkable source of strength for us all.

That’s why I’m delighted that – after a covid induced hiatus – we’ll be putting on the first Mayor’s Community Weekend since the pandemic. This will be a wonderful opportunity for people to come together .

We’re inviting people to apply for funding so I would encourage local people to step forward and get involved. I cannot wait to enjoy a weekend of celebration this September and I look forward to seeing it all in action.

Communities have until 12 noon on 7 June to apply for funding to hold an event during the West Midlands Mayor’s Community Weekend.

I hope Birmingham’s Irish community will live up to their well-earned reputation for community spirit, by embracing this brilliant event.

Find out how to apply at the National Lottery Community Fund website .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The Easter Egg Appeal 2023

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:58:29 GMT

Everyone at Birmingham Irish Association hope that you all had a fantastic Easter break. ��

In the lead up to Easter for the past two years Birmingham Irish Association have worked in partnership with Blues Central Travel for an Easter Egg Appeal. This year it was decided that the appeal will continue and has now taken place for the third year running .

The idea behind the appeal is to collect donations of Easter eggs and reach out and distribute to people who are in need. Today we would like to share the outstanding efforts from our community once again donating an incredible amount 630 Easter eggs to our appeal. The donations each year are phenomenal and really do make a difference.

All of the eggs have been distributed out over the Easter break, with the help of so many of you we have been able to put a smile on many children’s faces once again this year.

With the huge amount of donations this year we have branched out to many families in Birmingham as well as, The Children's Trust, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Children's trust Palliative care, St Basils children and baby unit and St Basils adolescence unit, Care homes and vulnerable families in our community.

We would like to say a huge thank you to each and every person who made the appeal such a huge success again this year, with special thanks to...

Blues Central Travel
Anthony Routley
Wayne Carnell
Billy Jordan
C.J Fureys Construction
John Henry Newman School
Emma McGrath

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members”

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Our Dementia Awareness Project update

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:54:33 GMT

Paulene McDermott, our wonderful children's support worker, has been working in multiple schools providing the Dementia Awareness Project which is funded by Children in Need.

The project involves visiting schools and delivering sessions to children in the classroom, as we believe children will feel more at ease in a familiar environment and they may be more willing to share their ideas amongst the children they know.

Following that, we will then tailor individual and smaller group sessions to support children who have a family member living with Dementia. We want to encourage children to ask questions and talk about any worries they may have. Our sessions are fun and engaging and are completely child friendly. They involve lots of discussion and some fun and informative activities.

We recently visited our lovely friends at St Mary and St Margaret’s C of E Primary School and would like to say a big Thank you to them for being part of our Dementia Awareness Project again this year.

As always, the children were fantastic and we were so impressed with the enthusiasm, respect and understanding they all showed during their class workshop. We were delighted to hear that they all enjoyed learning about Dementia and we look forward to working with you again soon!

We were also very lucky to have a lovely new member of staff for the day to help us on our visit, Paulene’s daughter Florence. Thank you Florence for all your help, and to all the staff and children for making us feel so welcome.

Follow our social media platforms to keep up to date …

Facebook – Birmingham Irish Association
Instagram – birminghamirish
Twitter - @brumirish

If you would like some more information about our Dementia Awareness Project, please email our Children’s Support worker, Paulene via paulene@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Our new Outreach Music Project update

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:53:25 GMT

Our musical facilitator Jobe Sullivan has continued to teach weekly at The Abbey Primary in Erdington. The students are doing a phenomenal job and are a real credit both to their school and to the future of Irish Music in the city.

Jobe teaches Bodhran, Tin Whistle and accordion at The Abbey. The Abbey Irish Group played for the school's very own St Patrick's Day Parade at an eye-wateringly early 8:30am! They played classics such as Molly Malone, The Rattlin Bog and even some songs they know from church.

The children are also really proactive learning songs themselves, albeit not always traditional Irish songs! Nonetheless, their enthusiasm is infectious, so for an example of 'Vivaldi's Spring', 'Pirates of The Caribbean' and 'In Christ Alone'. Some of the tin whistle players have a Miley Cyrus song ready. It shows the positive impact that Jobe has had on the students in the sessions.

For the rest of the year, Jobe will be working in class with year 6 as well as focusing on the piano-accordionist. There are children from year 3, 4, 5 and 6, which is great news for the future of Irish music.

Birmingham Irish Association are also delivering sessions at Bishop Challoner in Kings Heath, where Jobe is teaching mandolin and banjo. Here's to more great music!

If you would like more information about our outreach project, please contact Sinead via email sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:51:51 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Dia daoibh a chairde!

The Irish language is full of beautiful blessings and good wishes for every occasion. This month I’d like to share a few of them with you.

Dia linn – God be with us (often used when someone sneezes)

Go méadaí Dia do stór – May God increase your wealth

Go dtuga Dia ciall duit – May God give you sense

An rath ag rith ort – May you always be lucky

Ná rabhair riamh gan dathú – May you never be without milk for your tea (a terribly important one, I feel)

Dea-lán ar do chorcán – May your pot be always full

Tigh ar dheis gréine agat – May your house face the sun

Sóchas gan bandairne agat – May you never be late or disappointed

Craiceann ar do phunt – May you spend wisely

Misneach ort – May you have courage

Meas agus modh ort – May you be respected

Nár cheannair seimide bó – May you not buy a cow that has a tendency to roam (Maybe not terribly relevant in Birmingham, but still…)

And a long-winded toast:

Sláinte an bhradán chugat, croí follán agus gob fliuch – Health of the salmon to you, a healthy heart and a wet mouth, ie plenty to drink. (Or you can just say sláinte)

And finally:

If you are interested in hearing the language being spoken or would like to take part in some comhrá (conversation), join us at Norton’s in Digbeth on Sunday May 14 from 1pm till 3pm . You don’t need to be fluent – it’s open to everyone. Tá fáilte romhaibh go léir!

The language session will be followed at 3pm by a traditional Irish music session.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: How Digbeth is becoming Brum’s new TV and film heartland

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:50:26 GMT

Lights, camera, action! In this column, I thought I would update you on exciting changes now happening to the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community – Digbeth.

The spotlight is now falling on Digbeth like never before – as massive investment turns it into a centre for film and TV production.

This month saw the opening of Digbeth Loc. Studios, which is the brainchild of Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight and business partner Piers Read, the former MD of Digbeth’s Custard Factory.

The landmark development will convert disused, old Victorian buildings into a modern, state-of-the-art studio complex, with three film studios, production offices and construction workshops, spanning 80,000 square foot of regenerated space in Digbeth.

It has been established with £1.3m of investment from Birmingham City Council, together with landowner Homes England and support from the West Midlands Combined Authority.

But it’s just one of a cluster of media and TV developments moving to Digbeth.

The Bond, next door in Fazeley St, has launched film and TV production facilities too. This £18m facility has had an investment of £3m from Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP).

And plans for a brand-new BBC HQ in Digbeth, on the site of the old Typhoo premises – called ‘The Tea Factory – have been approved by the city council. The Beeb should move to Digbeth from their current home at the Mailbox in 2025 .

That’s not all. The BBC will also be converting the old Grade II Banana Warehouse into a purpose-built studio for the ever-popular MasterChef – another addition to Digbeth’s growing creative heart.

I am incredibly excited that the BBC is opening a new chapter in the West Midlands with this major investment to create their greenest and most modern facility ever - right here in the heart of our region.

Not only will their phenomenal new home at the former Typhoo Factory act as the catalyst for the wider regeneration of Digbeth to become a global creative quarter, but it will also act as a magnet for young creative talent right across the West Midlands and the wider UK.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Irish Association – New Custodians of the St Patrick’s Day parade

Sat, 25 Mar 2023 10:07:56 GMT

The Birmingham Irish Association, are delighted to be the new custodians of the Birmingham St Patrick’s Day festival. The association will now take the opportunity to revive the parade to showcase more of the Irish culture that it brought to Birmingham in the post war years.

Working with partners and Birmingham City Council it will reach out to the community groups, bands, dance schools and Irish Community to see what can be achieved in the future .

Maurice Malone, Chief Executive of Birmingham Irish Association said;

“We aim to secure the Parade for future generations and showcase all Irish Traditional culture, music, dance, language and Gaelic sports, and the contribution of the Irish community to Birmingham. BIA will be working with participants, partners and Birmingham City Council to see what is feasible given timeframes and budget pressures and location issues. “Discussions are in the early stages and no firm decisions have been made.”

This year we welcomed culture specific groups, to our festival at Canon Hill Park which we hope will be the springboard for future events going forward. Although small in scale it certainly made up for this with a vibrant and colourful gathering that represented all that is good in our city and showcase the talents and passion of those groups taking part.

We welcomed the Lord Mayor of Birmingham as our guest of honour and those representatives from the City, the business world and the Irish Community. We hope everyone enjoyed the day and look forward to sharing with you our plans for 2024 in the near future.

Maurice Malone

CEO, Birmingham Irish Association

Blessings To You - Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

Blessings come on St. Patrick's Day,

Everywhere you go smile along the way.

The Leprechaun and his gold bring good cheer,

To brighten up your smile and wash away any fear.

Luck is yours when you find a four-leaf clover,

Where your green until the day is over!

So here's to happy St. Patricks Day to thee,

Wishing you blessings filled with luck and gaiety !

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

BIA receive £30,000 award from the Birmingham Irish Cycle Appeal

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 10:07:01 GMT

This month, we were invited by Birmingham Irish Cycle Appeal to a fundraising event that had taken place in the Regency Hotel in Shirley. Throughout the evening, various charities were presented with generous cheques from the charity.

Birmingham Irish Association are proud to announce that we have received a huge £30,000 for our Dementia services. This donation towards our service is going to make such a major difference to the service that we provide Monday to Friday.

"We would like to say a massive thank you to Michelle & Joe Argue, All the bike riders and to everyone who nominated our charity to receive this incredible amount."

Trudy (Service Manager) Said; “The huge amount we have received for our Dementia Centre’s is going to help us with continuing to provide a safe, enjoyable environment for our service users and allow the family members to get the rest bite that is very much needed. We cannot thank the Birmingham Irish Cycle Appeal enough.”

Sharon (Dementia Centre Coordinator) Said; “I am overwhelmed by the donation Birmingham Irish dementia centres have received. The centres/families will greatly benefit from this.”

Ruth (Dementia Centre Coordinator) Said; “The generosity of this donation has exceeded any of our expectation and will have a huge and positive impact on the service users and families in our community.”

For more info on how you can help us or we can help you please contact one of our centre Coordinator’s below …

Monday, Wednesday & Thursday contact Sharon Toy – sharon@birish.org.uk
Tuesday & Friday contact Ruth Geoghegan – ruth@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Our Outreach Music Project

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 10:00:08 GMT

This month our Culture, Sport and Heritage Project Officer Sinead and our Outreach Music Teacher Jobe went to Bishop Challoner to deliver a taster session of our current music project.

The students had a fantastic time, and the teachers got involved too!

The taster session was a massive success.

Due to the success of the taster session, we are delighted to announce Birmingham Irish Association will now be delivering weekly sessions to Bishop Challoner School students.

Our wonderful music teacher Jobe delivered the first outreach music session. The sessions were fantastic and the children really engaged in the lesson within smaller groups.

Our music teacher Jobe is very passionate and has already achieved so much progress from his current students in Abbey Primary. We are really looking forward to seeing the progression and confidence in the students over the weekly sessions and working closely with Bishop Challoner School.

We are very lucky to have Jobe teaching many students around Birmingham and bringing Irish Culture and music to individuals on a weekly basis.

If you would like more information about our Outreach project, please contact Sinead via email sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 09:58:44 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Ar ais arís – back again!

Conas atá sibh? How are you all?

Did you know that each of the three main dialects (canúintí) has its own way of saying How are you?

In Connaught it’s: Cén chaoi a bhfuil tú? (The most difficult to pronounce) Kay Hay a will thew (with variations I’m afraid).
In Munster it’s Conas atá tú? (An easy one) kunnis a thaw thew.
In Ulster it’s: Cad é mar atá tú? (With that J sound) coh Jay morra thaw thew.

If you have any difficulties with these stick to Conas atá tú? That will in any case be understood by all Irish speakers wherever they are from.

For a good pronunciation guide, go to abair.ie. It will give you the correct pronunciation for all three major dialects.

Now here are a few more useful links:

Teanglann – get the app on your phone. A great dictionary
Duolingo – free on-line learning that uses a fun games-like approach.
focal.ie – good dictionary which also tell you how to pronounce stuff.
Transparent Language – Irish Word of the day. This e.mails you a new word every day, puts it in a sentence and also tells you how to pronounce it.
TG4 and RnG : Irish language TV and radio – Listen when you can and get a feel for the sounds.

We are in the process of setting up a Comhrá (conversation as Gaeilge) group in Birmingham. It will be suitable for everyone interested in the language – even beginners.

If you are interested, please let Sinéad at Birmingham Irish Association know. To contact Sinead please email sinead@birish.org.uk

We would love to hear from you.

Le gach dea-ghuí,

Terri

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: time’s running out to claim heating costs help

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 09:57:36 GMT

As I write, the first snow of 2023 is falling in Birmingham and, while it certainly makes the Second City look attractive, it also serves as a reminder of the difficulties some face when temperatures fall.

In this column, I want to reach out to members of Birmingham’s Irish Community to ask for their help in ensuring that we look after each other as heating bills rise.

In particular, I want to alert you to a scheme which exists to help people pay their bills, which at the moment is not being fully used.

Over 150,000 vouchers in the region are still unclaimed as part of the Energy Bills Support Scheme which provides a £400 discount to help with the rising costs of energy.

I want to urge all those who have yet to claim to make sure they do so by checking online or contacting their provider before 31 March 2023 deadline.

I want to ensure that everyone is receiving all the help that they’re entitled to from the government so I’m urging those 150,000+ households in the West Midlands who have yet to redeem their vouchers to make sure to claim the benefit before it is too late.

This has been a tough winter for far too many which is exactly why it’s so important that nobody misses out on this unprecedented offer of support .

The vouchers were first announced back in May last year and apply to all households in Great Britain.

The £400 discount was initially applied over a six-month period with reductions of £66 in October and November 2022 and then £67 every month between December 2022 and March this year.

People that use prepayment meters may be required to redeem their vouchers at their local top-up point. Suppliers have a responsibility to inform their customers how to access government support using the vouchers and must make several attempts to contact people who haven’t redeemed them.

As of the end of January, 76% of all vouchers issued so far have now been redeemed – meaning support reached more of these households than at any other point since the scheme began.

For more information, please visit:

www.gov.uk/get-help-energy-bills/getting-discount-energy-bill

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our Classic Film Cinema Club

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 10:55:27 GMT

Here at Birmingham Irish Association, we are proud to present our brand new service, the Classic Film Cinema Club.

Our Activities and Wellbeing Coordinator, Terry Collier, has created a brand new club for individuals who enjoy watching movies. Each week on a Wednesday afternoon from 1pm a classic feature film is presented on our big screen.

The films will be a variety of classics. The club watches and reviews all the greatest films from the 70's 80's and 90's.

This is a free entry afternoon, bring your own drinks and snacks, everyone is welcome.

Birmingham Irish Association will post the month in advance film list for audience reference.

The first month of the Classic Film Cinema Club has been a huge success with increasing members attending each week. We would love more of the community to come along and join our friendly club and enjoy the new service we are providing.

The address for the club is:

St Anne’s Club

45 Alcester Street

Digbeth

B12 0PH

We are looking forward to welcoming more of our wonderful community soon.

For any other enquires please contact Terry via email terry@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Update on our hot meal & food parcel relaunch

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 10:49:22 GMT

In January, as an organisation we were delighted to announce Birmingham Irish Association received an emergency food aid grant for a duration of 6 months.

Throughout the pandemic our amazing Staff team managed to serve the community each day by setting up our very own food bank. Members of the community in need were able to visit us and collect a food hamper and a hot meal, to which we expanded on our services and offered hot meal deliveries to individuals who were unable to travel.

The food bank project was a huge success and we managed to reach individuals and families in need throughout Birmingham during the pandemic.

On Monday 16th January we reopened our doors to serve the community in Birmingham.

We have offered hot food and food parcels each week on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11am. The service takes place at the St Anne's club.

Each week the news is spreading further out to the wider community, increasing the awareness of the service Birmingham Irish Association is providing.

This is a collection only service from the address below:

St Anne's Club

45 Alcester Street

Digbeth, B12 0PH

Please continue to spread the word, we are here to help.

For any other enquiries please contact info@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Irish Association St Brigid’s Day celebrations

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 10:42:29 GMT

In the lead up to St Brigid’s Day on 1st February our organisation celebrated in many ways within our projects.

Each of our five wonderful dementia centres, across the city had an event in which everyone made their very own St Brigid’s crosses, using pipe cleaners and they were fantastic.

The centres also completed colouring and crosswords, all relating to the feast day. Finishing the events with hot chocolates, cakes and lots of group discussions to mark the day.

The Tuesday club had a fantastic St Brigid’s Day Afternoon Tea event which 80 – 100 individuals got together to celebrate. The morning started with one of our lovely volunteers, Margaret who told everyone the story of St Brigid. We then had afternoon tea all together, enjoying lots of scones and tea.

The group had discussions remembering all of their unsung heroes and mammies. To finish the event we also used the big screen to display a 4 minute clip that was published by the Irish Foreign Ministry in 2022 to celebrate St Brigid’s Day. Everyone had a really great day.

We also set up a social media campaign, to celebrate our unsung heroes and mammies of our local community. We received nominations from Staff, Board members and Volunteers to recognise how many amazing people there are all around us.

The engagement on our social media has been phenomenal and we thank all of you for this. We have loved reading the positive, uplifting comments.

To check out all of our St Brigid’s Day celebrations 2023:

Saint Brigid’s Blessing

May Brigid bless the house wherein we dwell

Bless every fireside, every wall and door

Bless every heart that beats beneath its roof

Bless every hand that toils to bring its joy

Bless every foot that walks portals through

May Brigid bless the house that shelters us

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 10:40:28 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Dia Daoibh a chairde! Hello!

Conas atá sibh? How are you?

Tá Lá Fhéile Pádraig ag teacht go luath! Is é Padraig Naomhphatrún na hÉireann. Bíonn Lá Fhéile Padraig ar an 17ú Márta gach bliain. Bíonn spóirt agus spraoi ag Éireannaigh ar fud an domhain.

Lá Fhéile Padraig – St Patrick’s Day
go luath - soon
spóirt agus spraoi – fun and games
ar fud an domhain – all over the world

A few words that might be useful at this time:

seamróg: shamrock
paráid: parade
ribín glas: green ribbon
bratach ghlas: green flag
ceol: music
cláirseach; harp
ceolchoirm: concert
slua mór: a big crowd
pionta Guinness: you may guess that one!

Just a tiny bit of grammar

Notice above that the word for green is spelt in two different ways – ribín glas and bratach ghlas. The word ribín is masculine and is followed by the adjective glas – no change. However, the word bratach is feminine so the adjective following it has to change and take a seimhiú (or a h).

You may want to send some cards to your family and friends for St Patrick’s Day. Here are some words you might use:

Beannachtaí ar Lá Fhéile Padraig (Beannachtaí means blessings or greetings)

or:

Lá Fhéile Padraig sona duit (Happy St Partick’s Day)

or:

Bain sult as an lá (Enjoy the day!)

Sláinte: cheers!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: 300 new electric buses will provide cleaner, greener travel

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 10:38:44 GMT

Since I became Mayor of the West Midlands, it’s been my ambition to create a world-class transport system for our region.

My transport plan includes expanding the Metro network, reopening long-closed railway stations and investing in things like cycling and walking, to not only alleviate congestion on our roads but to encourage us to get about in a more healthy way.

Rethinking how we connect all the different communities across the West Midlands’ seven boroughs will also play a huge part in our ambitions to reach net zero.

Key to this transport revolution is bus travel – buses remain the workhorse of our public transport system, carrying more people than any other mode of transport.

Digbeth, the spiritual home of Brum’s Irish community, has had a long association with our buses, from the Midland Red Social Club to being the home of National Express coaches.

This month I want to tell you about exciting news from National Express West Midlands, which will mean bus passengers will soon be able to enjoy a cleaner, greener way of getting about.

National Express West Midlands is investing £150 million in 300 zero emission electric buses, which will be delivered by the end of December 2024, to be deployed across the West Midlands.

Each zero emission vehicle saves an average of 66 tonnes of carbon annually, so this investment will save a total of nearly 20,000 tonnes from going out into the atmosphere every year .

As we aim to tackle the climate emergency and maintain our commitment to reach net zero by 2041, these buses are exactly what we need - saving energy, improving air quality and cutting fuel costs for operators.

They are British made too, so they will also boost the UK’s economy, by investing in supply chains, skills, training and jobs.

Electric vehicles are the future - and I cannot wait to see even more electric buses arriving in our region in the months and years ahead.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A Happy New Year message from the Staff and Trustees

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 10:46:57 GMT

We hope everyone in our community had a special, relaxing Christmas time spent with loved ones.

We would like to wish you all a Happy New Year, in the hope that 2023 is filled with positivity, joy and happiness.

We would like to share a poem by Jackie Kay “Promise”

Remember, the time of year

when the future appears

like a blank sheet of paper

a clean calendar, a new chance.

On thick white snow

You vow fresh footprints

then watch them go

with the wind’s hearty gust.

Fill your glass. Here’s tae us.

Promises made to be broken, made to last.

(From 'A Poem For Every Day Of The Year')

Thank you for your continued support of our organisation throughout the year of 2022. We look forward to seeing you all for another year of success.

From all Staff and Trustee’s at Birmingham Irish Association.

Our offices are back open from Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Our hot meal & food parcel service relaunched

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 10:46:43 GMT

We are delighted to share the recent news that our organisation has received an emergency food aid grant for a duration of 6 months. During lockdown we were able to serve the community by setting up our very own food bank, with the addition of hot meal deliveries.

This was a huge success and we managed to reach individuals and families in need throughout Birmingham.

From Monday 16 January 2023 we reopened our doors to serve the community in Birmingham.

We will be offering hot food and food parcels each week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11:00am. This will take place at the St Anne's Club.

A massive thank you to the staff at Iceland Harborne for donating 250 carrier bags to help us with the distribution of food parcels.

This will be a collection only service from the address below:

St Anne's Club

45 Alcester Street

Digbeth, B12 0PH

Please spread the word, we are here to help.

For any other enquiries please contact info@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Irish Association Toy and Warmth Appeal 2022

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 10:45:03 GMT

Throughout the winter months of 2022, at Birmingham Irish Association our team decided to create a Toy and Warmth Appeal that was focused on helping individuals and families that were struggling with the run up to Christmas, due to the cost of living crisis.

The toys focused on children from newborn up to 16 years old, the warmth items from newborn to elderly. With the help of the GAA clubs, Tolkien Schools and general members of the public we received an outstanding donation of toys and warmth items.

The response to our appeals in general are always amazing but this appeal, with the crisis affecting most people in our community, it has touched our hearts to see the generosity and kindness that people have shown.

The Staff and Trustee’s at Birmingham Irish Association are truly grateful to everyone who has got involved and made a difference to a child’s Christmas and kept our community warm this winter.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 10:44:43 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Áthbhliain faoi mhaise – A prosperous New Year to you all.
Fáilte ar ais – welcome back.
Tá súil agam go raibh Nollaig shona ag gach éinne. I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas.
Bliain nua agus dea-rúin – New Year Resolutions.

Maybe you’ve decided to develop your Irish Language skills this year – I hope so. All it takes is a few words (cúpla focal!) on a regular basis. Maybe you could build on the vocabulary (stór focal) we learnt last year?

A useful website for Irish is Duolingo – great for developing your vocabulary and it’s free – easy and fun to use – bain triail as. (give it a try).

Anois píosa beag faoin geimhreadh – Now a little about winter:

Tá sé fuar inniu – It is cold today
Tá sé ag cur sneachta – It is snowing
Is lá seaca é – it is a frosty day
Tá sé scamallach – It is cloudy
Níl sé gaofar – It is not windy
Níl an ghrian ag taitneamh – The sun is not shining

Let’s try a few comparative forms:

Fuar – níos fuaire – is fuaire (cold - colder – coldest)
Dorcha – níos dorcha – is dorcha (dark – darker – darkest)
Te – níos teo – is teo (warm – warmer – warmest)
Geal – níos gile – is gile (bright – brighter - brightest)

Éist le réamhaisneis na haimsire – listen to the weather forecast on TG4 and see how many words you recognise.

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath (see you soon).

Ádh mór! (Good luck).

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: New transport money will help get the whole region healthier

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 10:43:58 GMT

It’s that time of year when, after the fun of Christmas, we put away the chocolates and thoughts turn to how we might try to live a little healthier in the year ahead.

People give up alcohol for ‘Dry January’, join gyms, dig out their running shoes or sign up for diet plans as they try to get into shape and shift a few pounds.

Well, this month, I thought I would share a little good news about a major new cash injection that could make life healthier for residents right across the West Midlands.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has secured almost £3.5 million funding to support the better design, planning and development of cycling, wheeling and walking schemes in region.

What does that mean? Well, improving the opportunities for people to get about in a healthy way is a big part of my transport plan for our region, and this money, from Active Travel England, will mean we can really press ahead with all kinds of schemes.

The funding will deliver green jobs and enable the West Midlands to ensure its new cycle routes and lanes and projects are of the highest quality, meeting latest Government design standards.

It’s really important that we create a practical network of routes across our region, but it’s also vital that the lanes and routes are put in the right places, are safe and built to last.

TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), has over recent years invested more than £50 million in a wide range of active travel schemes from the £8 million Binley Road Cycleway in Coventry to smaller neighbourhood-based schemes through the Better Streets Community Fund.

In fact, Active Travel England has rated the West Midlands’ efforts to coax people out of their cars to get about under their own steam as among the best in the UK .

This new investment is a huge vote of confidence in our ability as a region to deliver transformative cycling and walking projects.

We have already delivered record investment in cycling and walking infrastructure, including the hugely successful West Midlands Cycle Hire scheme and our growing Starley Network of safe cycleways.

We are not stopping there – we are making further investment in transport schemes that will enable active travel over the next five years. This £3.5m of new funding will help the region ensure they are

designed and delivered to the highest possible standard, all whilst creating new green jobs in the region.

We all know that the ‘new year, new you’ feeling doesn’t always last beyond January, and the plans we put in place to get healthier aren’t always easy to keep up.

But by building a transport network that will help us all get around in a healthier way, we can plot a route to a healthier future.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Update: Birmingham Irish Association Toy and Warmth Appeal 2022

Sat, 26 Nov 2022 11:14:09 GMT

As winter swiftly approaches, our thoughts here at Birmingham Irish Association are with those who are finding the cost of living crisis especially challenging.

Therefore this year, we have decided to turn our usual collection into a Toy and Warmth Appeal this year, to not only focus on bringing presents, but also on keeping our community warm too.

In addition to children's toys from years 1-16 (must be new and in original packaging), we will also be collecting hot water bottles, blankets, hats, gloves, scarves and woolly socks (which again must all be new), between the 18th October until the 12th December.

If you would like to help us in this years' Christmas appeal, please contact Sinead by emailing sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Sat, 26 Nov 2022 11:13:43 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Tá an Nollaig ag teacht! Christmas is coming!

You will be thinking about writing your Christmas cards about now, so why not add a few words of Irish? Make them bi-lingual if you wish and remind everyone of our beautiful Irish tongue.

In Irish, Christmas is referred to as An Nollaig . (Don’t confuse that with Mí na Nollag , which is the month of December!)

Lá Nollag – Christmas Day
Oíche Nollag – Christmas Eve
Lá Fhéile Stiofáin – St Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day in the UK)
Nollaig na mBan – 6 January (This is traditionally the day when the women rested and the men and children did the cooking – it has in recent years been resurrected and the women take the opportunity for a girlie night out!)
Athbhliain – New Year
Crann Nollag – Christmas tree
Daidí na Nollag – Santa or Father Christmas
Féirín Nollag – Christmas present
Maisiúchain na Nollag – Christmas decorations

Cártaí Nollag – Christmas cards .

Here are a few useful phrases for your cards:

Nollaig Shona duit – Happy Christmas
Guím gach sonas ort sa bhliain 2023 – wishing you every happiness in 2023
Síochán an Tiarna leat um Nollag – Peace of the Lord be with you at Christmas
Le sonas na féile – season’s greetings
Beannachtaí na Nollag – Christmas blessings

Le gach dea-ghuí - with every good wish (This one is worth learning as you can use it all the year round!)

And to finish with, if you would like to address a specific relative in your card, here are a few handy words:

Máthair – mother
Athair – father
Seanmháthair – grandmother
Seanathair – grandfather
iníon – daughter
Mac – son
Gariníon – granddaughter
Garmhac – grandson

Bain sult as an Nollaig agus beidh mé ar ais san Athbhliain, le cúnamh Dé.

We hope you are enjoying these few words of Irish, we would love to hear your feedback! Please get in touch by emailing sinead@birish.org.uk and let us know if you have any suggestions. More grammar? More vocabulary?

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath – see you soon!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Natural Environment Awards recognise groups the West Midlands

Sat, 26 Nov 2022 11:13:23 GMT

People from outside the West Midlands often have an incorrect expectation of what our region is like – they expect it to be all concrete and motorways.

Then, when they visit us, they are surprised to see just how green the West Midlands is, with so many cherished open spaces from major parks and nature reserves to community-led projects that support green lungs in the centre of our communities.

Well, I want to tell you about a new awards scheme dedicated to recognising the excellence of those who protect, restore, and enhance the region’s natural environment.

Organised by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Natural Environment Awards will recognise organisations who care for local green spaces – and they are open for nominations now!

Community groups, businesses, local authorities, and educational institutions are all eligible to be nominated for their work throughout the year. Judges will be looking for real commitment and determination for preserving and creating green spaces in the West Midlands.

It is hoped that the awards will also inspire new projects and increase awareness about the importance of preserving the natural environment .

Nominations are open until January 2023, and it will be my honour to announce the winners at an awards ceremony in March.

The idea is to celebrate the fantastic efforts of organisations from across our region to celebrate and protect the wonderful waterways and green spaces we are blessed with here in the West Midlands.

These organisations, which are so often driven by volunteers, make a real difference to the quality of life we all enjoy and will be essential as we strive to meet our climate change goals.

Through these awards, the efforts of passionate community groups, businesses, local authorities and educational institutions will receive the recognition they rightly deserve. So, please do apply if you’ve been involved with a project that meets the criteria as your story will help to inspire others.

Only organisations within the seven constituent authorities of the WMCA are eligible to enter. To apply and find out more information, please visit www.wmca.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Invitation to the Birmingham Pub Bombings Memorial Service 2022

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 09:32:28 GMT

As so many of us will know, the memorial trees by the entrance of New Street station have provided relatives and the people of the city a place of reflection and remembrance for all those affected by that tragic night 48 years ago.

In keeping of this tradition since its opening, the Birmingham Irish Association and the Misneach committee will be holding a memorial service at the trees again this year.

We are delighted to announce that this service will see the official opening of permanent lighting on the memorial, which has only been made possible through the generosity of Network Rail and the Irish Government of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation fund who have funded this wonderful development together.

We invite all those to join with us on the 21st November 2022 at 6pm to remember all those who lost their lives and the many hundreds injured that night .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Bidding Farewell to Pat Reihill, Birmingham Irish Associations Chairperson

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 09:31:24 GMT

As staff, volunteers, trustees and members of the community gathered together this month for our annual AGM meeting, not only to discuss milestones, but sadly this year, to also say goodbye to our wonderful, long serving Chair, Pat Reihill.

On the night, all attended paid tribute and acknowledged his brilliant achievements whilst leading the organisation for many years, including the visit of President Higgins to Birmingham, the Birmingham Pub Bombings victims memorial and the remarkable response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

We cannot thank Pat enough as his contribution to the charity and the Irish community in the region has been nothing short of incredible and we wish him all the best in all challenges he takes on in the future.

Whilst we bid farewell to one Pat we welcomed another as the new chair, as Pat O’Neill takes up his new position with immediate effect after being elected.

Pat is well known in the community and has long been a passionate and vocal advocate for the Irish in the city.

We welcome Pat O' Neill to his new role and wish him every success.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Irish Association Toy and Warmth Appeal 2022

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 09:29:41 GMT

With the season of Autumn in full flow, it is the time of year to begin preparations for our Toy Appeal for 2022.

With the rising cost of fuel and energy bills however, we have decided to turn our usual collection into a Toy and Warmth Appeal this year, to not only focus on bringing presents, but also on keeping our community warm too.

If you would like to help us in this years' Christmas appeal, please contact Sinead by emailing sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 09:28:45 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

IFáilte ar ais a chairde! Welcome back friends!

Hopefully everyone had a wonderful Summer so let’s see if we can talk a little about it. (Do look back at July’s lesson where we were introduced to some holiday conversation!)

An raibh tú ar saoire i mbliana? - Were you on holiday this year?

Bhí (I was)

Bhí mé sa Spáinn (I was in Spain)

Ní raibh fós (I wasn’t – yet!)

Tá mé ag dul go Ceanada an mhí seo chugainn (I am going to Canada next month)

Cé a chuaigh leat? (Who went with you?)

Bhí mo dhearthair liom (My brother was with me)

Chuaigh mé i m’aonar (I went alone)

Mo chairde Seán agus Mairéad (My friends John and Margaret)

The word for accommodation is lóistín .

Cén cineál lóistín a bhí agat? (What kind of accommodation did you have?)

Lóistín leaba agus bricfeasta (bed and breakfast)

Lóistín iomlán (full board)

Lóistín féinfhreastail (self-catering)

Conas a bhí an aimsir? (How was the weather?)

Bhí sé réasúnta (It was seasonable)

Bhí sé go hálainn (It was beautiful)

Bhí sé te (It was hot)

Bhí sé an-te (It was very hot)

Bhí sé róthe It was too hot)

Bhí sé meirbh (It was humid)

Bhí sé fliuch (It was wet)

Bhí sé fuar in amanna (It was cold at times)

So there we used the past tense mainly. Note the most common verb in the past tense, Bhí .

Bhí mé (sounds like: vee may – I was)

Ní raibh mé (I wasn’t. The ní denotes the negative)

Bhí mé - I was

Bhí tú – you were

Bhí sé – he/it was

Bhí sí – she was

We hope you are enjoying these few words of Irish, we would love to hear your feedback! Please get in touch by emailing jennifer@birish.org.uk and let us know if you have any suggestions. More grammar? More vocabulary?

Feicfidh mé sibh go luath – see you soon!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Funding will help Brum’s homeless this winter

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 09:27:42 GMT

This month, as temperatures begin to drop and winter approaches, I thought I’d share with you some good news we have regarding efforts to help the regions homeless.

Birmingham’s Irish community has always helped the city’s homeless, stretching right back to when Irish people first came to Brum. Back then the priests of St Anne's acted to ease a chronic lack of accommodation by opening a single room in Moat Row to Irish immigrants.

Today, the Digbeth parish remains at the centre of provision for rough sleepers, via Tabor House, which is based in the Birmingham Irish Association building.

Since I became Mayor, homelessness has been one of my priorities, which is why I have championed Housing First, the pilot scheme which shares many of the approaches seen at Tabor House.

Now, more than £2.5 million extra funding has been secured for the Housing First project, to continue supporting hundreds of people who had previously been sleeping rough.

Originating in Finland, Housing First works with housing associations, charities, support groups and councils to help rough sleepers get off the streets.

The programme is overseen by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Homelessness Taskforce and headed up by Birmingham City Council alongside local authorities in Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton, in partnership with housing providers and homelessness charities.

Housing First is Government funded, and the latest £2.5 million comes after an initial £9.6m over the last three years.

The latest money not only means the pilot project can carry on but will be crucial in making sure those people who have already been given a roof over their head can continue to build their life away from the street.

The government announced the funding as part of its new Rough Sleeping Strategy to drive forward its manifesto commitment to end rough sleeping for good .

Housing First, unlike other schemes, places individuals directly into independent tenancies with no requirement to progress through transitional housing programmes.

They are given a choice about where to live and wraparound support, and the evidence has shown that this leads to positive outcomes.

So far, the scheme has helped 526 individuals across the region by taking them off the streets and getting them better access to supportive services.

Since the very start of my time in office, I have made tackling homelessness a key part of my mayoral mission. The regional Housing First scheme has contributed to reducing rough sleeping across the West Midlands, thanks to some brilliant collaborative work – but there is still more that needs to be done.

With this additional £2.5m secured for the Housing First scheme in the West Midlands, it gives us the chance to deepen the support we offer to those who have fallen on tough times to rebuild their lives.

I’m proud to be associated with Housing First, which represents the latest chapter in our region’s efforts to support those in need, and continues the work done by the Irish priests and volunteers all those years ago in Digbeth.

I’m sure they would want us to press on and help even more people.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 11:32:57 GMT

We echo the thoughts of President Michael D. Higgins on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our thoughts are with the Queens family at this sad time.

The full statement:

"It is with profound regret and a deep personal sadness that I have learnt of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"On behalf of the people of Ireland, may I express my heartfelt sympathy to His Majesty the King and to the Royal Family on their very great personal loss. May I offer my deepest condolences to the British people and to the members of the Commonwealth on the loss of a unique, committed and deeply respected Head of State.

"Her Majesty served the British people with exceptional dignity. Her personal commitment to her role and extraordinary sense of duty were the hallmarks of her period as Queen, which will hold a unique place in British history.

"Her reign of 70 years encompassed periods of enormous change, during which she represented a remarkable source of reassurance to the British people. This was a reassurance based on a realism of the significance of present events, rather than any narrow conception of history. This was so well reflected by a remarkable generosity of spirit which helped to foster a more inclusive relationship both with the British people themselves and with those with whom her country has experienced a complex, and often difficult, history.

"As President of Ireland, I recall the exceptional hospitality afforded to Sabina and myself by the Queen and the late Prince Philip on our four-day State Visit to Britain in 2014. Together we celebrated the deeply personal interconnection between the Irish and British people, a connection embodied by the hundreds of thousands of families who have moved between our shores over the centuries.

"As we know, the Queen often spoke of how much she enjoyed her own historic State Visit to Ireland in 2011, the first such Visit by a British monarch since Irish independence, and during which she did so much through eloquent word and generous gesture to improve relations between our two islands .

"Queen Elizabeth’s Visit was pivotal in laying a firm basis for an authentic and ethical understanding between our countries. During those memorable few days eleven years ago, the Queen did not shy away from the shadows of the past. Her moving words

and gestures of respect were deeply appreciated and admired by the people of Ireland and set out a new, forward-looking relationship between our nations – one of respect, close partnership and sincere friendship.

"As we offer our condolences to all our neighbours in the United Kingdom, following the loss of a remarkable friend of Ireland, we remember the role Queen Elizabeth played in celebrating the warm and enduring friendship, and her great impact on the bonds of mutual understanding, between our two peoples.

"She will be deeply missed."

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam dílis.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Pub Bombings Memorial Service: 21 November - save the date

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 11:32:51 GMT

This year marks the 48th Anniversary of the Birmingham pub bombings, which took place on the 21 November 1974.

The memorial trees on the plaza outside New Street Station has provided family members, relatives and the people of the city a place of reflection and remembrance of all those affected by that tragic night.

In keeping with the tradition since its opening, the Birmingham Irish Association and the Misneach committee will be holding a memorial service at the trees on the 21 November.

We are delighted to announce that this year will see the official opening of permanent lighting on the memorial, which has only been made possible through the generosity of Network Rail and the Irish Government Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation fund who between them have funded the cost of the new lighting.

Further details of the service will be in the October newsletter but please note proceedings will be starting earlier than previous years with events due to commence at 6.15pm.

Please save the date and we look forward to welcoming you on the evening.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The passing of Brendan Farrell

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 09:47:02 GMT

We were extremely saddened to hear the news that our dear friend Brendan Farrell passed away peacefully on the 24th September.

Brendan dedicated his life to serving his community and worked tirelessly to capture the rich history of the Irish community in Britain.

Details of Brendan’s funeral will be released in due course.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.

"May he rest in peace ."

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Free advice line could help keep your home warm this winter

Sat, 24 Sep 2022 11:32:42 GMT

Birmingham’s Irish community is renowned for its caring and charitable outlook, an approach which stretches right back to the arrival of Irish people to Brum, when a chronic lack of accommodation meant there was a need to provide help.

Back then, volunteers opened a single room in Moat Row to help Irish immigrants avoid the cold, beginning a tradition of charitable support that survives to this day.

This winter, however, many people right across our region will worry about how they are going to keep their own homes warm.

With rising energy bills and the cost-of-living pressures we’re facing in the West Midlands, we need to do all we can to support local residents through the upcoming winter months and beyond.

Did you know that around 15-20 per cent of households across the West Midlands are already deemed to be in fuel poverty? In fact, here in the West Midlands, we have some of the highest rates of fuel poverty in England, second only to the Northwest.

I want to use this column to tell you about an important new service, from Warmer Homes West Midlands , which will provide a support line for those looking to keep their energy costs down whilst staying warm in the coming months.

Warmer Homes West Midlands works with households across the region who are struggling with household heating costs. Their mission is simple: to help people save money on household energy bills, reduce energy use and protect the environment.

Crucially, Warmer Homes West Midlands offers a free service that aims to give personalised energy advice to households.

How does it work? Residents can call a freephone number - 0808 196 8298 - to talk to trusted, impartial advisors who also arrange home visits for more complicated cases.

Community staff can also offer help to residents with their budgeting, explain how they might access grant funding and can supply and install free energy saving measures such as draughtproofing, energy efficient lightbulbs and radiator foils that reflect more heat into the room.

The service is even beginning to train volunteers in local communities as energy champions - so that they can deliver energy advice and support for their own area.

The team at Warmer Homes West Midlands have been working hard during 2022 and have already answered more than 3,000 calls from fuel poor households.

As winter approaches, and residents face the challenges of rising energy costs, the team is ready to help even more people.

If you are worried about energy bills and heating your home, I encourage you to pick up the phone and call the Warmer Homes team on 0808 196 8298 – help is at hand.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our ‘Move to Ireland’ pop-up clinic

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 12:25:32 GMT

This month, we want to share a message to all those considering returning or making the move to Ireland, as we will be working in partnership with Safe Home Ireland to host a free and confidential in-person information clinic.

The clinic will take place from 2pm until 4pm on the 5th September at the Birmingham Irish Association (address below) and topics will include:

Making a planned return
Criteria for housing via Safe Home Ireland
Healthcare on return
Access to Social Welfare payments
Banking, driving, returning with children, nursing home care in Ireland
Supports on return and useful links

For more information and to register your attendance, please send an email to info@birish.org.uk or call us on 0121 604 6111.

If you would like us to cover other topics, please contact us in advance and we can tailor the session to meet your individual needs. Safe Home Ireland Officers will also be available to offer a limited number of one-to-one appointments after the clinic.

Address: Birmingham Irish Association, 45 Alcester Street

Digbeth, Birmingham, B12 0PH

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing, our new Dementia Centre allotment

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 12:25:19 GMT

This month, we want to share news of a wonderful new development for all of our Dementia Centre clients, a brand-new allotment.

We are so very excited to introduce this into our session offerings as we know it will make such an incredible impact upon the daily lives of our service users.

As our tools are in need of a safe place in our location, it would be wonderful if a kind individual was willing to donate a shed for our project, and provide delivery and set up in the process.

If you, or someone you know, would be kind enough to donate this for our centre, we thank you wholeheartedly and ask that you send an email to trudy@birish.org.uk.

We thank you so much!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Páirc Festival 2022

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 12:25:04 GMT

This month, we are delighted to share that we have been chosen as Charity Partner for the incredible upcoming Irish festival, Pairc!

With Dublin born Imelda May, Finbar Furey, Nathan Carter and Ocean Colour Scene musical acts announced and as well as musicians scheduled such as The Father Teds, Lampa, Hothouse Flowers and Beoga, who co-wrote Galway Girl with Ed Sheeran, it's sure to be a phenomenal August bank holiday weekend .

If this wasn't enough, the festival also promises a narration of the real history of the Irish in Birmingham from Prof. Carl Chinn MBE on both the Saturday and Sunday as well as a street food village, outdoor bars and beer tents and an outdoor arena of up to 5000.

All here at Birmingham Irish are so very excited to welcome Páirc Festival to Birmingham, and advise that you book your tickets to this incredible event as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

To book tickets to Páirc festival, please click here .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Now vibrant Digbeth is set to welcome the BBC to ‘Brummiewood’

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 12:24:49 GMT

Digbeth has always been a vibrant place, not least because of the influence of our local Irish community. That community is sizeable - not so long ago, Birmingham was named the most Irish place in Britain, when data showed there were 22,021 people in the city who defined their ethnicity as "white Irish".

And it’s in Digbeth that this strong sense of identity has always been tangible, because of big events like St Patrick’s Day Parade and places like the Irish Centre and St Anne’s, and also because Irish culture is reflected in pubs and smaller businesses. It’s in the fabric of the place.

However, Digbeth isn’t just the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community, it’s also the epicentre of the city’s creative industries, a place that the Times once dubbed the 'Coolest Neighbourhood in Britain'.

It’s a cultural melting pot where the ultra-modern rubs shoulders with the old, where new buildings spring up next to old factories that have been repurposed for a new use – the Custard Factory, once the home of Birds Custard, is probably the best-known example of this.

I want to use this column to tell you how another former industrial site is about to be reborn in a move that will further cement Digbeth’s place as the cultural heart of the region.

BBC Birmingham has announced it will move out of The Mailbox and into new premises built at the former Typhoo Tea factory. The new broadcast centre at the heart of Digbeth's creative quarter is expected to be ready for staff by 2026 .

This tremendously exciting news means that all the BBC teams at The Mailbox - including Midlands Today and BBC Radio WM - will relocate to Digbeth, along with Newsbeat and Asian Network News which move to the city later this year.

The old factory site, in Bordesley Street, has stood derelict since it shut in 1978, but once plans are approved it will undergo a major regeneration to become the Beeb’s most sustainable and flexible centre.

I believe the move will act as the catalyst for the wider regeneration of Digbeth to become a global creative quarter. It will also act as a magnet for young creative talent right across the West Midlands and the wider UK.

The BBC is the latest addition to a cluster of TV production companies and facilities taking shape there.

It’s reported that Steven Knight, creator of Peaky Blinders, aims to end the gangster saga with a feature film – and that he wants to film it at his new Digbeth Loc. Studios development.

This 38-acre complex aims to create a Brummie equivalent to London’s Soho.

And right now, in Digbeth, a new world class Creative Content Hub for independent TV production and creative content developers is taking shape.

The £18m facility, based at The Bond, has had an investment of £3m from Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP).

In fact, before work begins on the BBC’s new base, the Beeb has already committed to moving production of MasterChef’s four series to the Digbeth Loc. complex - which includes: BBC One’s MasterChef, MasterChef: The Professionals, Celebrity MasterChef and the recently announced Young MasterChef (WT) for BBC Three, as well as any festive editions.

Thanks to the influence of our Irish community, Digbeth has always been alive with culture and creativity. It’s no wonder this vibrant place is quickly earning the nickname ‘Brummiewood’.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing, the Uniform Swap Shop at Fox Hollies Forum

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 09:10:30 GMT

With school summer holidays approaching this month, we want to spread news of our newest venture far and wide, to as many families with children as possible.

It’s safe to say we are delighted to be working collaboratively with Fox Hollies Forum to offer a Uniform Swap Shop which will enable all families wishing to collect and swap school uniform to do so at the below address every Thursday in August.

We also want to share tremendous thanks to all those who contributed school uniform items during the Family Support Day. Through your kindness, we will be able to give a hand to so many families this year.

For more information on our Uniform Swap Shop, please email Shelby@birish.org.uk.

Address: Fox Hollies Forum, Greenwood Avenue, Birmingham, B27 7RA

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Being awarded the 2022 Quality Award by the Irish Youth Foundation

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 09:04:58 GMT

This month, we want to share a very exciting update, as our Dementia Workshop for Schools Project has been chosen to receive the Irish Youth Foundation’s Quality Award for 2022.

Upon hearing the brilliant news, we were delighted to learn that it was in recognition of excellent young people’s dementia services we have been providing to children, particularly during these last challenging years when families within Birmingham have been unable to meet

It’s safe to say we were honoured to visit the Irish Embassy this month to celebrate the work of the Irish Youth Foundation and the Women’s Irish Network and to collect the award.

We thank the Irish Youth Foundation wholeheartedly for this incredible opportunity, and we are so incredibly grateful for being chosen.

For more information on our Dementia Workshop for Schools Project, please click here or email Paulene@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing Páirc Festival 2022

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:56:49 GMT

This month, we are delighted to share news of a brand-new Irish festival that's set to be the biggest celebration of Irish Music and Culture in the West Midlands, coming to Birmingham this August Bank Holiday!

All here at Birmingham Irish are so very excited to welcome Páirc Festival to Birmingham, and advise that you book your tickets to this incredible event as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Recently, we have also kindly been told by the festival organisers that our newsletter subscribers can receive 15% off ticket prices!

To book tickets to Páirc festival, please click here , and don’t forget to enter BIRISH15 for your discount before August 10th.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:53:08 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

It’s holiday time! (Laethanta Saoire) so let’s look at some Irish words that will help you through:

We’ll begin with a few names of countries in Irish:

Éire – Ireland (You’ll know that one!)

Sasana – England (Another one you might know!)

Albain – Scotland

An Bhreatain Bheag – Wales (literally, Little Britain)

An Fhrainc - France

An Spáinn - Spain

An Iodáil – Italy

Meiriceá – America

Na Stáit Aontaithe – The United States

An tSín – China

An tSeapáin – Japan

Notice many, but not all, countries in Irish have an, the definite article, (the in English) at the beginning. Learn them with the an.

An = the in English. An Madra = the dog

Na is the plural form. Na madraí = the dogs

Now for nationalities:

Éireannach = Irish person

Sasanach = English person

Albanach = Scottish person

Breatnach = Welsh person

Francach = French person

Spáinneach = Spanish person

Iodálach = Italian person

Meiriceánach – American person

Síneach = Chinese person

Seapanach = Japanese person

Cé as thú? (pronounced: Kay ass hoo) = Where are you from?

Is as Éire mé = I’m from Ireland

But to tell someone your nationality you would say:

Is Éireannach mé = I’m Irish

Is Sasanach mé = I’m English

This month, we have lots of new vocabulary to learn, and next month we will learn more phrases about holidays. In the meantime, Bain sult as do laethanta Saoire (Enjoy your holidays!)

New classes in Irish will be beginning on Zoom in September. If you would like to join us, please do let us know by emailing jennifer@birish.org.uk. All levels are welcome and it’s all free!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: With Broad Street’s metro now running, it’s full speed ahead to connect Digbeth

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:49:59 GMT

I was delighted recently to see West Midlands Metro's new Westside extension go into service, opening just in time for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. On Sunday July 17th, the first passenger-carrying tram set off down Broad Street after years of construction.

Now, it’s full speed ahead to finish the next section of the region’s tram network into Digbeth, the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community.

It has been a challenging few months for the Metro, after services were suspended for major repairs. I'm so pleased for local residents and businesses that we've now reached a turning point and a comprehensive service is returning .

I was lucky enough to ride the very first tram as it headed down the new Westside extension, and I have to say that Broad Street looked a billion dollars as it prepared to receive new visitors via the service.

Digbeth can look forward to the same kind of boost once the Eastside extension is completed.

I was delighted to secure £160 million from the Government for this Metro line, to extend a 1.7km route from the city centre into the very heart of Digbeth. One of the most vibrant parts of Birmingham, Digbeth is renowned as a cultural hub which mixes 21st Century creativity with a strong sense of community and heritage.

I believe the new Metro line, which will include four West Midlands Metro stops, will drive the continued renaissance of Digbeth and help more visitors discover just how much it has changed.

Quite simply, it will bring people into Digbeth, to learn about its heritage and enjoy its vibrant cultural offering. That means a boost for local businesses while also encouraging more new businesses to relocate there .

For local people, it will also bring real benefits. For a start, there is the improvement in travel that comes with such a major transport investment. Service frequency on the line will be six minutes during peak times with a 15-minute service off-peak.

That means more people using the Metro for day-to-day travel, resulting in time savings, fewer car journeys, reduced congestion and cleaner air.

The Metro will also connect local people to job and education opportunities.

What’s more, the Metro network will ultimately link up with HS2, meaning much of the wider West Midlands ¬- places like Wolverhampton, Dudley and Sandwell - will all be able to access the new High Speed rail service.

Plans to give Birmingham’s ‘creative quarter’ a fresh look and feel, in addition to the tram extension, are really starting to take shape with new paving the latest improvement to be installed on Digbeth High Street.

Like Bournville and the Jewellery Quarter, Digbeth is one of the cultural gems of Birmingham.

With the arrival of the Metro, it will be able to share its delights with even more people – along with the warm welcome that is guaranteed by its proud Irish roots.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month 2022

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 12:01:43 GMT

As the month of June marks the celebrations of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month across the UK, we want to share the brilliant resource and event offerings made by Friends Families and Travellers, to spread inclusivity and kindness for these fascinating communities.

As their 2022 message centres around “What Makes A Home” for Gypsy, Rome and Travelling Communities, we wanted to share news of their student and school competition running until the 8th July, as well as other brilliant educational resources for the classroom and beyond .

To enter the competition, students, schools and classes can submit a piece of art, poetry, short stories (less than 500 words) or videos (less than 3 minutes) based upon the theme of “What Makes a Home” before 8th July 2022 to promote inclusion within classrooms.

Winners of the competition will be announced in August, to whom book vouchers of up to £100 will be given.

To find out more and download resources, please click here .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 12:01:08 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

Dia Daoibh – Hello everyone!

Last month we began the process of learning to say what time it is.

You can already ask what time it is: (Cén t-am é?)

Now let’s take that a little further:

Tá sé cúig nóiméad tar éis a naoi: it is five past nine.

Tá sé cúig nóiméad tar éis a cúig: it is five past five.

Tá sé cúig nóiméad go dtí a naoi: it is five to nine.

Tá sé cúig nóiméad go dtí a cúig: it is five to five.

Tar éis = past

go dtí = to

Try these:

1. Tá sé fiche nóiméad tar éis a seacht

2. Tá sé fiche nóiméad go dtí a seacht.

3. Tá sé deich nóiméad tar a sé.

4. Tá sé deich nóiméad go dtí a trí.

5. Tá sé cúig nóiméad tar éis a hocht.

(Answers at the bottom!)

Now let’s look at the days of the week!

Dé Luain: Monday

Dé Máirt: Tuesday

Dé Céadaoin: Wednesday

Déardaoin: Thursday

Dé hAoine: Friday

Dé Sathairn: Saturday

Dé Domhnaigh: Sunday

(Go to focal.ie for help with pronunciation)

(Answers to numbers 1-5 above)

1. 7.20

2. 6.40

3. 6.10

4. 2.50

5. 8.05

We hope you were successful. Well done for giving it a go!

New classes in Irish will be beginning on Zoom in September. If you would like to join us, please do let us know by emailing jennifer@birish.org.uk. All levels are welcome and it’s all free!

Ádh mór – Good luck!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Our canals continue to deliver the goods

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 12:00:35 GMT

Great cities have their rivers or coastlines – think London, Paris, Sydney, San Francisco. Here in the landlocked West Midlands, we have our canals. These canals, of course, are intrinsically linked with the Irish community. Many Irish people moved to Birmingham to build canals, roads and railways in the city's industrial past.

As the arteries of the Industrial Revolution, they once shaped our region, its geography, its economy, and its people. Today, they reflect the renewal of the West Midlands, contributing to business and culture while providing valuable open spaces that inspire communities and volunteers.

In this column I want to explain how our region is utilising this vast network to help navigate a way to a greener future .

Birmingham, it’s often said, has more canals than Venice. The Canal and River Trust do a fantastic job of acting as guardian to the more than 520 miles of canal in the West Midlands, the oldest parts of which date back more than 250 years.

However today they are far from the blackened old waterways of the Peaky Blinders. Visitors to Birmingham are often impressed by Brindley Place, with its restaurants, bars and businesses set around tree-lined squares and an enviable canal side location.

This city centre showpiece, first regenerated more than 20 years ago, continues to develop, and can now look forward to benefiting from improvements being made to adjacent Broad Street, perhaps Birmingham’s most dynamic entertainment destination.

It’s a model that has been repeated across the region, at places like Coventry Canal Basin and most recently with Walsall’s Waterfront, which includes sustainable homes, a hotel, a multi-screen cinema, café bars and restaurants.

Regenerating these places follows a core principle behind the renewal of the West Midlands – recognising that the remnants of our industrial past as a valuable resource that should be utilised .

My ‘Brownfield First’ policy, for example, has attracted hundreds of millions of pounds of Government funding to reclaim former industrial land for housebuilding, rejuvenating eyesore sites while helping protect the green belt from developers.

Our canals are playing their part in this, providing waterside development sites across the region. In Birmingham, Port Loop is a 43-acre ‘island community’ of 1,150 new homes surrounded by canals, which is just 15 mins from the city centre. In Wolverhampton, the £65 million first phase of the proposed Canal side South plan will create 366 homes – but the full vision hopes to build a mixture of 1,200 townhouses and apartments, forming a self-contained, low-carbon village.

This is just the start. A development framework is being drawn up covering a huge stretch of Birmingham and Sandwell’s historic canal district, reaching from Brum to Smethwick, which could deliver 4,000 new homes, with an emphasis on providing regeneration benefits to the existing community.

Amid all this development, heritage is being respected. At one end of the district stands the Roundhouse, a stunning 19th century canal-side stables and stores which I recently visited. Brought back to life thanks to a unique partnership between the Canal & River Trust and the National Trust, the Roundhouse provides office space and a base from which people can explore the city.

From a health point of view, canals provide invaluable access to open space. Up to two million people in the West Midlands live within a kilometre of the waterways. Just over half of Birmingham's population are within walking distance of their local canal.

I have no doubt that the regeneration of our canals has played a major part in the huge increase in ‘active travel’ here – that is journeys made in healthy ways, such as by walking or cycling. 46% of journeys here are now ‘active’, up from 29% before the pandemic. Our scenic, safe and convenient network of towpaths is persuading us to get out of our cars.

These waterways also channel culture into our communities. Over the last year, they have played a major part in Coventry’s City of Culture green future programme, which focussed on nature and the benefits of green space. The Canal & River Trust is also supporting the Commonwealth Games, including leading on the GEN22 youth volunteering programme, taking up to 100 young people who may not always have access to traditional volunteering.

They’ll be joining a huge army of volunteers who are the real driving force behind the successful regeneration of our canal network. Across the whole region, community groups are ensuring these historic waterways remain relevant; by adopting stretches of towpath and creating community gardens.

I recently met Canal and River Trust volunteers in Birmingham on a litter pick – as they helped us prepare for the Commonwealth Games. And this is not a rarity – in the year before the pandemic over 160,000 hours of time were given by local people to help look after their waterways.

The Trust’s volunteers are even helping to create one of the longest ever community orchards by planting fruit trees along the canal network. Once planted, the 3,000 trees will span 50 miles from Wolverhampton to Birmingham and out to Worcester.

In the West Midlands, we have shown that our once neglected canals can be a driver for levelling-up, boosting economic regeneration, providing well-connected sites for business and attractive locations for new housing. As valuable open spaces, they also contribute to the cultural wellbeing of our communities.

Centuries after they were built by Irish hands, the continue to contribute. The West Midlands’ canals are no longer just remnants of our industrial past, they are a route to a greener, more sustainable future. Where they once carried coal and components to our factories, now they provide prime developments sites, economic activity, and valuable open spaces. By investing in them, we can ensure they can continue to deliver the goods.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Lá na Gaeilge: an update

Fri, 27 May 2022 09:44:45 GMT

This month, we were delighted to celebrate our Inaugural Irish Language Day at St Anne’s Parish Hall, and it’s safe to say a wonderful time was had by all who attended.

Below are a few words from our brilliant Irish language teacher, Terri, about the fantastic day packed with events.

“We were delighted to welcome well over forty students; they were delighted to learn, practise and improve their command of Irish; and one and all was delighted by the home-cooked lunch, lovingly prepared by our very own Audrey (of Birmingham Irish Association).

“Some students had their very first experience of the language, while others were fluent enough to treat us to a session of music and singing in the afternoon (thanks go there to Liam Tomlinson and his gang of musicians). Nollag Doughan gave a lecture on the history of Irish and the Gaelic Revival (so no-one can say we were only in it for the trifle – thanks again, Audrey!) We were also treated to a delightful Irish dancing display by Alicia and Eliza Finn-O’Shea.

“It was heartening to see so many make it out for the day, and from such long distances (from Milton Keynes to Leicester, from Sandwell to Wolverhampton, and from Essex to Leamington Spa (by way of pretty much everywhere in between). It warmed the cockles of my heart to see all the old faces I’d missed over Covidtide; and it was a pleasure indeed to meet plenty new ones, full of enthusiasm for the Irish language. We look forward to seeing you all at the next event. Watch this space, a chairde!”

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Fri, 27 May 2022 09:36:30 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

In our May column, we will be deepening our knowledge on how to tell the time.

To find out more about our Birmingham Irish Online Language classes, please email terri@birish.org.uk

Lesson 4 – Ceacht 4

Dia Daoibh – Hello everyone!

Last time we learnt numbers to twelve, how to ask someone the time and how to say what time it is on the hour.

Let’s take it a little further:

Go dtí: to

Tar éis: after

Ceathrú tar éis: quarter past

Ceathrú go dtí: quarter to

Leathuair tar éis: half past

Fiche nóiméad tar éis: twenty past

Fiche nóiméad go dtí: twenty to

So now you can say:

Tá sé ceathrú tar éis a dó: It’s quarter past two

Tá sé ceathrú go dtí a trí: It’s quarter to three

Tá sé leathuair tar éis a seacht: It’s half past seven

Here are a few more words connected with time:

Amárach: tomorrow

Inné: yesterday

Aréir: last night

Anuraidh: last year

inniu: today

tráthnóna: afternoon/evening

oíche: night

Lá: day

Meán oíche: midnight

Meánlae: midday

Next time we’ll look at the remainder of the times and introduce the days of the week.

Top tip:

To check your pronunciation just go to Focal.ie and type in the word you want to pronounce. You can then choose the dialect you prefer and listen to the pronunciation!

Slan go fóill! Bye for now!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Wishing you all a belated Happy Easter

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 11:22:04 GMT

On behalf of all at Birmingham Irish Association, we would like to extend to you all our belated Happy Easter.

To mark this very special occasion, we celebrated throughout the Association with parties, and we were elated to welcome some very special guests to our St Anne's Dementia Centre party, a lovely class from Holy Souls Catholic Primary School in Acocks Green who had previously taken part in our Dementia Awareness Workshops .

With fun filled crafts and an Easter bonnet parade, it's safe to say a delightful time was had by all, and we wholeheartedly thank Holy Souls for their incredibly generous donation to our Easter Egg Appeal.

We would also like to share colossal thanks to the wonderful members of our community, and also the brilliant supporters of Blues Central Travel. With their help, and the help of Holy Souls School, we have been able to collect 720 easter eggs this year, to donate to the Children's Trust and to the Bottleville Club's children's party on Easter Sunday.

To find out more about our Dementia Centre Awareness Workshops, please email our Children's' Support Worker Paulene via Paulene@birish.org.uk or to find out more about our Dementia Centres, please email Sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We thank you for your thoughts

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 11:17:32 GMT

Since the release of our Birmingham Irish Diaspora questionnaire, our teams have been studying the brilliant responses we have received and we are incredibly grateful for the number that have been submitted.

In this month's newsletter, we wanted to share the biggest thank you to those who did take the time to fill in and submit a questionnaire, and that it will be helping us immensely in the decisions we make as an organisation.

If you haven't yet filled in our questionnaire, and would like to do so , Please click here for full details >

You can either;

Complete the questionnaire online
Download the questionnaire, complete it, and email to jennifer@birish.org.uk

We thank you so much!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 11:08:55 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

To find out more about our Birmingham Irish Online Language classes, please email terri@birish.org.uk

Lesson 3 – Ceacht 3

Firstly, we need to learn the Irish translation of numbers 1-12 below.

A haon (a hane) – 1
A dó (a doe) – 2
A trí (a tree) – 3
A ceathar a caher) – 4
A cúig (a cooig) – 5
A sé (a shea) – 6
A seacht (a shocked) – 7
A hocht (a hocked) – 8
A naoi (a nee) – 9
A deich ( a jeag) - 10
A haon déag (a hane jeag) – 11
a dó dhéag (a doe jeag) – 12

We can use these numbers for counting and telling the time.

Let’s begin a conversation by asking the time!

Cén t-am é? (Cane ta may) - What time is it?

To reply, we can simply begin a response with

Tá sé… (tah shea…) – The time is…

And then add the following, dependent upon the time

A haon a chlog (a hane a clog) – one o’clock
A dó a chog (a doe a clog) – two o’clock
A trí a chlog (a tree a clog) – three o’clock
A ceathar a chlog (a caher a clog) – four o’clock
A cúig a chlog (a cooig a clog) – five o’clock
A sé a chlog (a shea a clog)– six o’clock
A seacht a chlog (a shocked a clog) – seven o’clock
A hocht a chlog (a hocked a clog) – eight o’clock
A naoi a chlog (a nee a clog) – nine o’clock
A deich a chlog (a jeag a clog)– ten o’clock
A haon déag a chlog (a hane jeag a clog) – eleven o’clock
A dó dhéag a chlog (a doe jeag a clog)– twelve o’clock

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Transport is the perfect vehicle to deliver levelling up

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 11:06:04 GMT

As Mayor of the West Midlands, it’s my job to ensure that no areas are left behind when it comes to investment – a kind of internal ‘levelling up’. Improving transport is a powerful tool in achieving this aim, by connecting communities together, injecting investment and giving residents access to opportunities and jobs.

Digbeth, the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community, is benefitting from our transport revolution with work on the Metro line.

This month saw the allocation of Government CRSTS funding (City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements), heralding huge investment in local transport networks across the UK .

I want to use this column to explain how this will continue to drive levelling up in the West Midlands, and how it will help us achieve our climate goals.

Over the next five years, £1.05billion of CRSTS funding will be spent in the West Midlands, a figure which rises to £1.3billion with local top-ups.

The first four major projects have already been identified.

£24 million will be used to seek sites for, plan and deliver a network of 10 electric vehicle charging stations across the region. £43 million will extend the West Midlands Metro depot at Wednesbury to service the region’s growing tram fleet and network – including the extension to Dudley in 2024.

£17 million will be spent on upgrading the Metro power supply on the Wolverhampton to Birmingham line, for the first time since it opened 22 years ago, while £56 million will deliver phase two of our Sprint bus routes.

These will be just the first schemes to go ahead from an expansive transport strategy that includes a Very Light Rail System in Coventry, the capping of ticket prices, reopened railway stations and new gateways in places like Sutton Coldfield .

This latest money links in with existing plans which target specific parts of our network, such as buses.

Here in the West Midlands, before COVID struck the bus was by far the most used form of transport, with 267 million journeys a year compared to 50 million for rail and about 7 million on the region’s Metro tram system. In fact, we were one of the few places in the country where bus use was rising.

Our Bus Service Improvement Plan allows us to access a share of the new £3 billion transformational Government funding, improving services, keeping fares low and backing pioneering ideas such as our ‘bus on demand’ scheme, which has proven such a success in supporting more rural communities.

Improved public transport will pay a crucial part in our climate change ambitions, persuading people to get out of their cars. We are also benefitting from the Government’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas fund (ZEBRA) to the tune of £30 million, allowing us to buy 124 hydrogen-fuelled electric buses.

Hydrogen buses consume four times less fuel compared to diesel buses and cover 300 miles on a single tank, emitting only water vapour, meaning no carbon dioxide or other harmful gases are being pumped into the air.

Birmingham City Council has already invested in 20 of these vehicles, while Coventry is set to become one of only two places in the UK to get an entirely electric bus fleet, which is fitting for a city that has been the epicentre of transport innovation for generations.

This isn’t just about spending public money, though. National Express, our leading service provider, has worked hard to cut fares while also investing massively in its fleet - with 350 impressive ‘platinum’ buses now serving the conurbation.

And underscoring all of this development is a commitment to encourage active travel, persuading our residents to take the healthy option whenever possible and get about under their own steam. At least £250 million of the investments planned for the CRSTS cash will go to projects designed to also enable cycling or walking.

This is a region that for decades had failed to attract its fair share of investment. That has changed. The year before I took office, we spent £38 million. This year, we are spending £403million.

Levelling up aims to create a more balanced nation, ensuring investment and opportunity reaches all communities. In the West Midlands we are proving that transport investment can provide a powerful vehicle to deliver this important mission.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Celebrating a glorious St Patrick’s Day

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:55:20 GMT

This year, we were delighted to share the warmest of St Patrick's Day wishes from our family to yours, and for us to be celebrating the bonds of kinship and friendship together as a community once more.

From our Dementia Centres to our Elders' Club, Ramblers Club to Computer Hubs, we have been making up for lost time with parties filled with light and laughter. It's safe to say we are deeply thankful to now be able to fully embrace the glory and joy of the festivities together.

As a global community, March 17th also marked a very special day for recalling our own migrant history, the recognition of our national identity and independence and our learning along the way. A journey that informs our shared values as citizens at home and abroad .

This St Patrick's Day, our thoughts and those of the community also lay with the people of Ukraine as they protect their homeland, independence and democracy from Russian invasion and occupation.

As an organisation, we stand with our fellow Irish organisations in solidarity with thousands of Ukrainian citizens living in Britain and their friends, families and compatriots living in Ukraine. As citizens of a common European home, we recognise the pivotal moment this represents for Ukraine, its courageous citizens and our continent.

Members of our Birmingham Irish community and friends further afield, we invite you to join us in extending an invitation to the Ukrainian community to walk with, among us and beside us this St Patrick's Day and beyond by donating to:

Unicef www.unicef.org/ukraine/en/take-action and/or;
UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) www.unhcr.org/uk

These two wonderful charities are working incredibly hard to provide psychosocial care to children who have been traumatised by the conflict, and to work with the authorities, UN and other partners in Ukraine to provide humanitarian assistance wherever possible.

Gabhaimid buíochas leat go mór.

We thank you so much .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our new Dementia Care Centre at The Cotteridge Church Centre

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:36:06 GMT

Throughout the past several years, we are absolutely delighted in the way our Dementia Care Project has continually grown and developed, and shaped around the ever-changing needs of our Birmingham Irish community.

Due to this, we have recently decided to move the location of our Kings Heath Dementia Centre to Cotteridge, with our weekly sessions now taking place in The Cotteridge Church every Tuesday.

To mark our very first session at Cotteridge for the group, a very special day was in store. In the morning, a wonderful arts and crafts session was led by our regular Art Therapist, where clients could create their own beautiful flag for our welcome banner. In the afternoon, delicious hot lunches were served and a brilliant singing and dancing session was had, courtesy of the fantastic Peter Collins.

It's safe to say that the entire day was filled with laughter, light and love, and we want to wholeheartedly thank both The Cotteridge Church for welcoming us, and to St Dunstan's RC Church for enabling us to deliver our sessions at their location up until this point, it truly means the world to us.

To find out more about our Dementia Centre Sessions, please don't hesitate to get in contact with our friendly centre managers via the details below.

Maryvale Dementia Centre - please email sharon@birish.org.uk
Cotteridge Dementia Centre - please email ruth@birish.org.uk
Ambrose Barlow Dementia Centre - please email sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our new Culture Project, the Birmingham Irish Heritage Trails

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:10:20 GMT

This month, we are very excited to reveal a brand-new Culture project operating during June and July of this year, the Birmingham Irish Heritage Trails.

Through this project, we want to explore and showcase the incredible impact that our phenomenal Irish community have made on our home city of Birmingham.

At present, we are searching for volunteer guides with a passion for Irish history within our city, to take visitors on this fascinating adventure through time .

Heritage Trail Volunteer Information Sheet

For more information please click here , or to apply, please email jennifer@birish.org.uk.

If you would like to join us in this venture, we would love to hear from you or if a loved one would be interested, please do share this opportunity with them.

For enquiries, please email jennifer@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A penny for your thoughts?

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:05:28 GMT

Since our doors opened over 60 years ago, we have always aimed to be a one stop shop, where every single individual from our wonderful Birmingham Irish diaspora and Irish culture enthusiast in our city can access care and culture services of an exceptional quality, and be guided in the process with the warmth of an Irish family.

To this day, it's safe to say that the many projects we provide are loved by hundreds in our city, but we are always on the lookout to better them.

Therefore, we want to ask if you could help us, simply by sharing your thoughts as every idea and opinion, no matter how small, means the world to us and is invaluable when elevating the quality, relevance and accessibility of our services.

If you would like to help us, we thank you so very much and invite you to complete our short questionnaire.

You can either;

Complete the questionnaire online
Download the questionnaire, complete it, and email to jennifer@birish.org.uk

Please click here for full details >

Thank You!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:02:11 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride. This very reason is behind our language column, Cúpla Focal, meaning, a couple of Irish Gaelic words.

In our March column, we will be talking about your name and where you live and come from.

To find out more about our Birmingham Irish Online Language classes, please email terri@birish.org.uk

Lesson 2 – Ceacht 2

We start with ‘What is your name?’ ‘Cad is ainm duit?’ (Cod iss annam dhitch?)

The response to this questions is ‘My name is ___.’ ____ is ainm dom.’ (___ iss eyenem dom)

You could also use the simpler phrase, I’m ___. ‘Is mise ____’ (Iss misha ___)

Many Irish people living abroad will be used to explaining that they were born and brought up in one place but now live somewhere else, so let’s look into how to say this next.

We start with ‘Where do you live?’ ‘Cá bhfuil tú i do chónaí?’ (Kaw will thew i doh cone-ee?)

The response to this question is ‘I live in ______ now.’ ‘Tá mé i mo chónaí in ______ anois. (Tah may ih moh hohni in ____ annish)

You could also ask ‘Where are you from?’ ‘Cé as thu?’ (kay ass who?)

Where they would most likely respond ‘I’m from ____’ ‘Is as mé.’ (Iss ass may)

A very useful phrase to learn would be:

Rugadh agus tógadh mé i mBéal Feirste ach tá mé i mo chónaí in Sutton Coldfield anois.

I was born and brought up in Belfast but I live in Sutton Coldfield now.

Grammar tip:

In Irish Gaelic, we use the little word, ‘i’, before a place name in the Irish language (eg. i mBéal Feirste) but we use in, , before a place-name that is not translated into Irish (eg. in Sutton Coldfield).

March tip:

To find out Irish place names, check out www.logainm.ie

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: The Commonwealth Games are bringing great sport and amazing opportunities

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 14:58:39 GMT

The countdown is nearly over. As I write this column, just 129 days remain until the start of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, with the opening ceremony taking place on 28 July.

Across the globe, 72 nations are set to send teams to England to compete in the second biggest sporting event ever held in the UK – with more than 5000 athletes taking part in 283 events, across 20 sports. Those talented individuals are, of course, in the final stages of their personal preparations, reaching peak fitness with their sights set on gold.

And as the final touches are applied to the venues and excitement builds for the arrival of the Queen’s Baton Relay, we are also working hard to ensure that the region’s businesses are also match fit, and ready to take full advantage of the huge opportunities the Games will bring .

I’m proud to have played my part in securing the Games early in my Mayoralty and have seen the people of the West Midlands embrace the opportunity of hosting such a massive event.

And the areas around Digbeth, the spiritual home of Brum’s Irish community, will see much of the action - the central Smithfield site will house beach volleyball, basketball and wheelchair basketball as well as serve as the starting point for the marathon.

In this column I want to explain how we have been preparing the ground to ensure that, alongside a sporting spectacle that the nation can be proud of, the Games also deliver an economic legacy that will benefit local people for years to come.

At the heart of this is a £24million Business and Tourism Programme. While it is early days – the Programme will run until 2023 – there are already very encouraging signs that it is delivering against the tough targets we set.

First of all, we have already landed two more major events. During the Games the first ever Commonwealth eSports Championships will be held at the International Convention Centre in the heart of Brum, giving out medals to the best in the ever-growing field of virtual sport. Then, in 2026, our region will host a world conference on Women in Sport, which is apt given that the Birmingham Games will, for the first time, offer more medal-winning opportunities for female entrants then male .

Early signs also show that hard work to bring inward investment on the back of the Games is bearing fruit, from places like Australia, India, Malaysia and Singapore.

The Queen’s Baton Relay, which is weaving its way across the Commonwealth on its journey to England, has also provided a fantastic opportunity to build trade partnerships.

Then, of course, there is the economic benefits that the exposure the Games will bring us, as well as the visitors. Birmingham is truly a global city, being home to people from more than 180 countries, and we have tried to shape this summer’s event as the 'Games for Everyone'.

Now the world is coming to us. It is estimated that 1.5 billion people will tune in to the watch around the globe, with huge amounts of visitors expected.

So, the programme also helps businesses here prepare to make the most of this global spotlight and the crowds it will bring.

Our Getting Ready for the Games scheme supplies an e-Learning course to 7,000 businesses, providing insight and information to ensure the region delivers an outstanding visitor experience and showcases the very best of the West Midlands.

Finally, the Global Growth Programme provides free support for companies wishing to enter the UK market via the West Midlands, while selecting 25 local businesses for help in boosting exports. The exposure provided by the Games is proving to be a powerful tool for trade.

All of these economic benefits come on top of more than a billion pounds of inward investment in preparing for the Games, with 70% of contracts going to businesses that have a base in the West Midlands.

Ultimately, all of this should translate into jobs and opportunities, starting with 35,000 projected jobs across the city this summer.

We have been looking forward to this summer for a very long time, and we are ready for the eyes of the world to fall on us. However, the indications are that the economic benefits of the Games will still be benefitting the people of the West Midlands long after the medals have been handed out.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Being shortlisted for the 2022 Business Live Third Sector of the Year Award

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:10:08 GMT

This month, we are delighted to share some very exciting news. Along with three other wonderful foundations, we have been shortlisted as finalists in the Third Sector Organisation of the Year category, for the 2022 Birmingham Business Live Awards.

All at the Association are absolutely elated and flattered by this wonderful news, and, we want to share monumental thanks to all of the tireless individuals, businesses and organisations and their unwavering work in supporting us in our projects, now and always.

On the 18th March 2022, the Third Sector Organisation of the Year will be chosen at an Awards Ceremony at the ICC, and we hope you will wish us luck.

For more information about the 2022 Business Live Awards, please click here .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A penny for your thoughts?

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:07:58 GMT

Since our doors opened over 60 years ago, we have always aimed to be a one stop shop, where every single individual from our wonderful Birmingham Irish diaspora and Irish culture enthusiast in our city can access care and culture services of an exceptional quality, and be guided in the process with the warmth of an Irish family.

To this day, it's safe to say that the many projects we provide are loved by hundreds in our city, but we are always on the lookout to better them.

If you would like to help us, we thank you so very much and invite you to complete our short questionnaire.

You can either;

Complete the questionnaire online
Download the questionnaire, complete it, and email to jennifer@birish.org.uk

Please click here for full details >

Thank You!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

St Brigid’s Day 2022 Sessions: An update

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:05:45 GMT

We are delighted to say that this month brought with it a wonderful and long-awaited celebration filled with storytelling and music, our annual St Brigid's Day Event.

With outstanding musical performances from 'Call Me Unique', 'Ire-ish' and 'The Mistakings', plus beautiful storytelling from Vicki Ayers, and a gorgeous recital from the children learning through our Musical Cultural Workshops, as well as hosting by the brilliant Barbara Nice, its' safe to say that a glorious night was had by all.

As an organisation, we would like to thank all of the wonderful individuals who made the evening so very special for us all, and also those who attended, we at Birmingham Irish are so very grateful.

To watch our St Brigid's Day Session videos, please click here , and for more information about our cultural events, why not give us a follow on our social media?

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Cúpla Focal: A couple of Irish Gaelic words

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 14:53:17 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we feel that the beautiful language of Gaelic is an extraordinary gift that should be passed down from generation to generation with immense pride.

Honouring this ancient tongue enables those learning to reconnect with their heritage, country, landscape and their culture, in a way that few methods truly can. Therefore, to know that only a small percentage of people are able to speak the language so closely woven within their families, to know that only few can see how it holds extraordinary capabilities to make things that are otherwise dull and bland, graceful and personal, and that it ay is a real shame. However, we believe that this is something we can collectively breathe life into and invigorate once more.

Therefore, we want to share with you all, our wonderful Birmingham Irish diaspora and friends outside of the city, an opportunity to grow your knowledge and ability to speak Irish Gaelic each month through our new column, Cúpla Focal, translated, a couple of words.

We hope you enjoy our first instalment below, which explores simply to greet someone in Irish, and to find out more about our Birmingham Irish Online Language classes, please email terri@birish.org.uk.

Lesson 1 - Ceacht 1

We start with Dia duit (Jee-a gwitch): Hello

The response to Dia duit is: Dia is Muire duit (jee-a iss murra gwitch)

“How are you?” would be: Conas atá tú? (kunnis a-thaw thew)

And the response to that (I’m good, thank you) would be: Tá mé go maith, go raibh maith agat. (thaw may guh moh gurra moh ogguth)

Let’s turn that into a little dialogue now:

Seán: Dia duit

Bríd: Dia is Muire duit

Seán: Conas atá tú?

Bríd: Tá mé go maith, go raibh maith agat.

February tip:

Check out the Duolingo app for some excellent, free, daily teaching and to increase your vocabulary!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: St Patrick’s Festival will celebrate Irish contribution to city life

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 14:50:27 GMT

St Patrick’s Day is an important part of the cultural life of Birmingham, when the whole city can join the Irish community to party and celebrate its contribution to life here.

Central to the celebrations is, of course, the famous St Patrick’s Day parade, with marching bands, Irish dancers, banners and floats celebrating the contribution that Irish culture has made to Birmingham.

The parade - one of the biggest in the world outside of Ireland - has not been held since 2019 due to the pandemic .

And this year, once again, it has been cancelled – this time due to the tram work being carried out to extend the tram network along Digbeth High Street.

I know that the Midland Metro Alliance, who are carrying out the tram work, are big supporters of the parade, and did put forward some alternative suggestions for the event to take place. However, while it is disappointing to know that the parade will not happen this year again, organisers undoubtedly made the correct decision, based on safety and logistics.

And it was clearly also a decision made with a real determination to ensure that, parade or not, St Patrick’s Day will be celebrated here in Brum in 2022. To put it simply, the craic is back .

I’m delighted and excited by the planned week-long festival which will start on March 11 and will include live music gigs, concerts and traditional Irish sessions, as well as whiskey and beer tasting.

The St Pat Rock’s stage will be set up at the Zellig and the Custard Factory, on Sunday, March 13, with music from international acts and local bands.

There will be heritage talks, storytelling and special events involving Irish dance and sport. The organisers have said that they want the festival to the celebrate “what it means to be Brummie, and how it feels to be Irish” .

As Mayor of the West Midlands, I regularly see how the region’s Irish community contribute to life here, from business and culture to charity and sport.

Brum’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations have rightly developed a reputation beyond these shores as one of the best in the world, not least because of the spectacle and colour of the parade.

The parade will be back, of that I have no doubt. But the plans that have been put in place for this year show that the irrepressible nature of our Irish community will ensure that it retains its place as one of the biggest dates on the region’s calendar.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Wishing you a very Happy New Year for 2022

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 09:46:43 GMT

As our circumstances continuing to evolve for the better, with this month bringing fresh starts anew, we wanted to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy and healthy new year.

In this month's edition of the newsletter, we wanted to reassure that although we are still in the midst of facing the Omicron variant, our communities can rely upon us to serve through the myriad of quality, bespoke services we now offer.

With booster vaccines now readily available for all adults over 18, we are so grateful that our surroundings and daily life are that much safer than this time last year, however, there are many in the community who have been affected significantly by the effects of the pandemic and need our help. Therefore, if yourself, a loved one, a neighbour or a client could really use our help through the below services, please do give us a call or email to find out more information or register with us.

Passport, Certificate and Foreign Birth Registry Assistance - please call 0121 604 6111 to book an appointment
Debt, Finance & Housing Support - please call 0121 604 6111 or email rosie@birish.org.uk to book an appointment
Bereavement Support - please email kate@birish.org.uk for more information
Elder's Health Care - please email kate@birish.org.uk or bernie@birish.org.uk for more information
Family Support - please email loraine@birish.org.uk for more information
Homeless Meal Collections - please call 0121 604 6111 for more information
Maryvale Dementia Centre - please email sharon@birish.org.uk for more information
St Dunstan's Dementia Centre - please email ruth@birish.org.uk for more information
Ambrose Barlow Dementia Centre - please email sinead@birish.org.uk for more information
Tuesday Elder's Club - please email terry@birish.org.uk for more information
Rambler's Walking Group - please email terry@birish.org.uk for more information
Computer Club - please email terry@birish.org.uk for more information
Emotional Support Outreach sessions - please email rachel@birish.org.uk or shelby@birish.org.uk for more information
Dementia Centre Awareness Workshops - please email paulene@birish.org.uk for more information
Musical School Cultural Workshops - please email jennifer@birish.org.uk for more information .

We also want to let you know that even if the services mentioned above do not directly solve an enquiry in mind from yourself or a loved one, we can still help through referrals in our database of contacts in our community, so please don’t hesitate to call us.

"May God bless you and we wish you a wonderful 2022, from our family to yours."

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Being Awarded a British Empire Medal from Her Majesty

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 09:36:42 GMT

We are delighted to say that, for us, 2022 has begun in a wonderful way as, on New Years Day, we heard that, our CEO, Maurice Malone, had been awarded the British Empire Medal from Her Majesty the Queen in her New Year Honour List, in recognition of work during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic with the Irish community.

In response to being awarded, Maurice Malone said;

"I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this award, which is something I never envisaged. I regard it as recognition for the work that all at the Birmingham Irish Association staff, volunteers and Board members have undertaken during the pandemic. I am part of a team, this is a team achievement and I trust each team member feels suitably proud. There can be no greater honour for me than to work with them.

“Whilst on a personal level I am touched to receive this award I am accepting this on behalf of the legion of individuals, businesses and groups including the local GAA clubs who commit such time and effort to make a real difference in our community. I feel privileged to play a part in such a caring responsive community. I must also acknowledge the funders including the Irish Government, the Big Lottery, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham and Solihull CCG and many others who have supported the charity."

Pat Reihill the Chair of Birmingham Irish Association said;

“During these unprecedented times, Maurice has worked tirelessly to collaborate with our many partners to bring about a coordinated COVID-19 response. It is no exaggeration to say that as a result of his leadership, his ability to motivate and to inspire those around him countless thousands have benefitted from the work of the Birmingham Irish Association. It has been my privilege to work alongside him and to see our organisation deliver on its essential mission."

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: How Digbeth is set to become ‘Brummiewood’

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 09:18:56 GMT

Birmingham’s Irish community has always been an important contributor to the cultural life of the city. Whether that’s through events such as St Patrick’s Day, Irish music and art or the hugely significant amount of charity and volunteer work carried out each year, there is always something going on within the Irish community, often centred on its traditional home of Digbeth.

Well, now Digbeth is set to take centre stage like never before, as huge investment turns it into a media hotspot that has already been dubbed ‘Brummiewood’.

I thought I would use this column to tell you a little about how Digbeth is set to become a centre for film and TV production .

For years, Birmingham was the home of all kinds of popular TV shows. Back when the BBC had major studios at Pebble Mill, programmes including All Creatures Great and Small, Boys from the Blackstuff, Doctors, Dangerfield, Howards' Way, Juliet Bravo and Dalziel and Pascoe were filmed here.

The first series of the hugely popular Line of Duty was shot in Brum too. However, in recent years, not enough TV programmes have been made here, despite local people contributing massive amounts of money to the BBC and ignoring the huge talent on offer in the West Midlands.

Even Birmingham-set Peaky Blinders, created by Brummie Steven Knight, had to film much of its action elsewhere.

All of that is now set to change, as Digbeth becomes the centre of a Brummie media revolution.

For a start, the Peaky Blinders could be coming home. It’s reported that Steven Knight aims to end the much-loved gangster saga with a feature film – and that he wants to film it at his new Mercian Studios development, planned for Digbeth .

This 38-acre complex aims to create a Brummie equivalent to London’s Soho, featuring with filming facilities, education initiatives and new housing.

We have also seen the BBC commit to major investment too - with prime-time television set to be made here.

And right now, in Digbeth, a new world class Creative Content Hub for independent TV production and creative content developers is taking shape.

The £18m facility, based at The Bond in the city’s historic Creative Quarter, has had an investment of £3m from Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) and building work is now getting underway.

So, you can see that the heart of Birmingham’s Irish community is also set to become the heart of the city’s new media cluster, bringing exciting new opportunities for local people and significant investment.

Soon, it will be ‘lights, cameras action’!

Are you ready for your close-up, Digbeth?

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

2021 : A big thank you and updates

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 11:17:42 GMT

As we approach the end of this year and reflect, it’s safe to say that it’s been a tricky one for us all. However, due to the immense generosity, courage and strength of our Birmingham communities once again, we have made it through our second year of the pandemic, and it has been so much brighter for so many.

To say that we have never been prouder to be in the heart of city and serving our wonderful Birmingham Irish diaspora is an understatement to say the least.

Thankfully, the start of 2021 saw the well anticipated vaccine roll out, and as safety guidelines were strictly followed and precautions firmly put in place, we were delighted to have most of our main services partially reopen within just a couple of months alongside all of our vital COVID-19 projects, that still serve as a lifeline to vast amounts across Birmingham to this day. After such a traumatic and inconsistent year, we were so very relieved to regularly see the dear faces of all of our clients once again.

Since March of this year, many new children’s outreach projects have also launched, taking the numbers of children being empowered emotionally to hundreds, something we are incredibly proud of and feel is absolutely imperative amidst of the repercussions of the pandemic.

With the help of many wonderful organisations and individuals in our community, we also collected over 400 chocolate eggs to gift to patients at the Birmingham Children’s Hospital this year to make Easter that little bit brighter.

As Spring evolved into Summer, we saw our Tuesday club and eventually our three Dementia Centres begin to safely reopen and our newest, St Ambrose Barlow, open for the first time. Along with our Weekly Ramblers Group, Silver Surfers Technology workshop and Online Coffee Mornings, they worked wonderfully to keep loneliness at bay for copious numbers of individuals in our community.

To express our monumental thanks to the wonderful people at the Irish Youth Foundation for their unwavering support for us during the pandemic, our CEO, Maurice Malone, undertook the challenge of completing the Vitality Big Half Marathon in August. Through this, Maurice raised a sensational £5,000 for the Irish Youth Foundation, which will aid massively in supporting crucial projects for young Irish individuals across our country, who desperately need help.

As Autumn drew nearer and the thoughts of the festive season arrived, we knew only too well of just how many families were facing devastating financial repercussions of the pandemic this year, and that there would still be endless children left without a present under the tree.

Last year, we delivered brand new toys to over 780 Birmingham families in early December, and due to the incredible generosity of so many wonderful organisations, our staff are busy delivering to hundreds of families to make Christmas morning magical this very minute.

Without the absolute abundance of glorious people and organisations helping in our mission, it simply would not be possible to achieve the sheer amounts we have this year. Therefore, we would like to extend the most enormous thank you to our magnificent funders, the kindness of our beloved Birmingham Irish community, and the awe-inspiring, tireless dedication of our fellow organisations.

We would also like to share a monumental thank you to all of the extraordinarily generous individuals, organisations and establishments below, as well as every single person who has donated physically or online to our appeals.

As we approach the end of this year, we want to wish you all the merriest Christmas and the happiest New Year. With each passing day, month and year, our courage and resilience grow stronger, and we will emerge as a community, to finish this battle together, once and for all.

May God bless you all.

Warwickshire GAA

Bishop Challoner Secondary School

Our thanks to:

Erin Go Bragh Warwickshire GAA Club
Sean McDermotts Warwickshire GAA Club
St Brendan’s Warwickshire GAA Club
John Mitchels Warwickshire GAA Club
All Birmingham schools who have so generously donated to our Christmas Toy Appeal
Archbishop Illesley
Mick O' Brien and family
Eddie O' Connor
Irish Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Emigrant Support Programme
Birmingham City Council (Adults and Communities)
Birmingham Cross City CCG
Birmingham South Central CCG
Sandwell and West Birmingham CCG
Ireland Fund of Great Britain
Birmingham Secondary Schools Family Support Project
The Irish Youth Foundation
The National Lottery Community Fund
Awards For All
Children in Need
Charities Aid Foundation
Lloyds Bank Foundation
Heart of England Community Foundation
Clothworkers Foundation
Covid-19 Community-Led Organisations Recovery Scheme (CCLORS)

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Christmas Toy Appeal (and thank you)

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 11:12:15 GMT

With Christmas Day just around the corner, it’s safe to say that many of us will be cherishing our loved ones that little bit more and making the festive period extra special this year to make up for lost time.

However, for many in our city, the devastating financial repercussions of the pandemic has it’s hold over hundreds of families throughout Birmingham, and many children sadly will not have a present to open under the tree this year.

To aid these families, we wanted to do everything we could, and as a result of this, we relaunched our Toy Appeal for Christmas 2021. Last year, we delivered brand new toys to over 780 Birmingham families in early December, ready for parents to wrap and place under the tree in time for the big day.

We cannot begin to thank the tremendously wonderful individuals and organisations listed below who have been working hard in fundraising and collecting on behalf of our Christmas Toy Appeal. Their colossal generosity will ensure that the children of hundreds of families across our city will experience that extra magic this year on Christmas Morning, and this truly means the world to us .

Our thanks to:

Erin Go Bragh Warwickshire GAA Club
Sean McDermotts Warwickshire GAA Club
St Brendan’s Warwickshire GAA Club
John Mitchels Warwickshire GAA Club
All Birmingham schools who have so generously donated to our Christmas Toy Appeal
Archbishop Illesley
Mick O' Brien and family
Eddie O' Connor

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Thanks to all who joined our Pub Bombings Memorial 2021

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 11:07:05 GMT

As winter arrives, so do crisper mornings, darker evenings and thoughts of the festive period, and also brings our annual Birmingham Pub Bombings memorial to commemorate the 21 lives tragically lost 47 years ago.

In 2020, it was with a heavy heart that our annual memorial was taken online along with our prayers, thoughts and memories due to the ongoing pandemic. This year, however, we were delighted to be able to gather together in person by the Trees Memorial to share a wonderful remembrance ceremony once again.

Along with all the relatives of the 21 who passed that night, we were also honoured to welcome Adrian O'Neill, Irish Ambassador for the UK, Andy Street, Mayor of Birmingham and also Jess Philips, Birmingham MP to commemorate with us.

As an Association, we would like to thank all those who joined us in remembering lives lost and showing support for the relatives left behind. Through our gatherings, we provide comfort and ensure the legacies and spirit of the 21 live on, always .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Birmingham Irish Association Health Event

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 11:03:38 GMT

Throughout our years serving the Birmingham Irish community, health and wellbeing have been incredibly prominent in our offerings, and this November has been no different.

On the 23rd November, we were delighted to offer a Health Day to the elderly generation of our community, with a wealth of different providers kindly showcasing their services.

From Specsavers to Forward Carers, our elders were able to chat all things healthcare with individual representatives over a cup of tea, along with a spot of bingo and a catch up with their friends of course.

It's safe to say that a wonderful time was had by all, and we'd like to thank all providers who visited wholeheartedly for their time.

We very much look forward to more days such as these in the near future.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: New campaign to help the homeless this Winter

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 10:55:18 GMT

Birmingham’s Irish Community has always played an important role in helping the homeless. It’s an inspirational story that stretches right back to the arrival of Irish people to Brum, when a chronic lack of accommodation meant there was a need to provide help – leading volunteers to open a single room in Moat Row to support Irish immigrants.

The priests of St Anne's, along with many local volunteers, were instrumental in this important moment in the Second City’s history and today, the Digbeth parish remains at the centre of provision for rough sleepers, via Tabor House, which is based in the Birmingham Irish Association building.

Housing First, the region-wide scheme that follows many of the same principles championed by Tabor House, has made significant strides in reducing the number of rough sleepers.

Then, of course, there is SIFA Fireside, the charity founded by Irish nun Sister Sabina Staffs.

This month I wanted to tell you about a new winter campaign to help rough sleepers and those at risk of becoming homeless .

‘There’s a Better Way’ is the latest campaign for the alternative giving scheme, Change into Action, which is now in its fifth year.

It asks West Midlands residents to look out for people in their local areas who might be sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness so that they can be connected to local support services.

Rather than directly giving money to those begging on the street or at the road side, the campaign highlights alternative ways of helping so that people can get off the streets for good.

This includes a donation to Change Into Action ( click here ) and advice on how to seek support from street outreach teams as well as ways of spreading the word through social media.

The money raised by Change into Action is used in a variety of ways to make a change in the lives of people who need it. This includes providing accommodation, access to healthcare, clothing and training that could help secure a job.

The initiative is led by the WMCA Homelessness Taskforce, which I set up in partnership with Birmingham City Council in late 2017.

Over time it has grown to include the local councils in Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, and Walsall, with Wolverhampton having a similar scheme called Alternative Giving CIO.

Thanks to the generosity of residents and local business more than £220,000 has been raised across the region through Change into Action and Alternative Giving CIO, helping to change many people’s lives for the better .

By working together, the region has done a good job of helping society’s most vulnerable and reducing the number of rough sleepers on our streets. However, there is still so much more to be done, and we know winter is traditionally a very challenging time for those sleeping rough.

We know there is a huge number of people who want to help those less fortunate than us and make a difference, but often do not know how. This campaign looks to address this, and ultimately help improve people’s lives.

If you would like to get involved, donations can be made online at www.changeintoaction.org.uk

If you are concerned that someone may be sleeping rough then please report it through www.streetlink.org.uk

The notification will go directly to a street outreach team who will follow up with an offer of help. If you think the person is in immediate danger or needs urgent care, please call 999.

All of this is a long way from that single room in Moat Row all those years ago, when Irish volunteers first began to help the homeless. I know that, as we follow in their footsteps with this latest project, I can rely once again on the deep generosity of Birmingham’s Irish community to help the most vulnerable in our society .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Invitation to commemorate the 47th Anniversary of the Birmingham Pub Bombings

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 21:50:24 GMT

As November begins and the evening of the 21st draws ever closer, so do our preparations for the annual memorial dedicated to the 21 individuals who tragically lost their lives during the night of the Birmingham Pub Bombings of 1974.

November 2020 saw us take our annual ceremony, as well as thoughts, prayers and memories online, however we are delighted to announce that this year, we will gather together in person to our usual spot at The Trees memorial statue at Grand Central Plaza near New Street station at 7:45pm to commemorate.

This year, we are honoured to invite all those wishing to pay their respects as well as Ireland's Ambassador to the UK, Adrian O' Neill, to join us in remembering all those who died, as well as showing support for relatives with the ongoing campaign for Justice for the 21 .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The Schools Cultural Project (an update)

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 21:50:13 GMT

Here at the Birmingham Irish Association, we take immense pride in how we stand by our wonderful community, by providing quality and bespoke services with the warmth of an Irish family, not only through our care services, but also in our Culture department too.

Since 2021, our Culture Department have been responding to the devastating aftermaths of the pandemic by introducing celebration and education of traditional Irish music in our local primary schools, through the launch of our Schools Cultural Project.

Funded by the Irish Embassy, the aim of the project is to inspire and educate our younger generations through the medium of Irish cultural, traditional music, in addition to improving creativity, discipline, mental health and the logical side of the children’s' brains, the cerebral cortex.

Due to a renewal of our funding and circumstances surrounding the pandemic, we are now in the position to offer these sessions to as many schools as possible, which we are absolutely delighted about, and we thank the Irish Embassy wholeheartedly for this wonderful opportunity.

For more information on our Schools Cultural Project, or to find out how your school can get involved, please email jennifer@birish.org.uk or click here to watch our promotional video .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA Traveller Research Worker & Volunteer Co-ordinator, Róisín Mason

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 21:49:19 GMT

At Birmingham Irish Association, we truly believe that all those within our diaspora should have the opportunity to have their voice heard, play a role in their community and have the freedom to express themselves as individuals.

In our organisation, there is one wonderful person who enables this in the entirety of the work they do, our Traveller Research Worker and Volunteer Co-ordinator, Roisin Mason .

Through her role, Roisin recruits, encourages and empowers our Association volunteering team to share their time and skills with our service users. In collaborating with other agencies, she helps to raises awareness of the rights of Travellers and Gypsies living in our city and encourages all to learn more about the history and experiences of these fascinating people.

Collectively as an organisation, we would like to thank Roisin for all the incredible work she does and continues to do each day for our diverse Birmingham diaspora. It is through this specific kind of work that all of our fascinating, vibrant and unique individuals residing in the city are given not only a voice but the ability to confidently take opportunities and share their story. For this, we are all so incredibly grateful.

The next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

For more information on our volunteering roles, please click here

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Benefits from the recent budget

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 21:47:54 GMT

In this column I want to talk about how communities in the West Midlands will benefit from the recent budget and the Government’s ‘Levelling Up’ plans - through investment in transport and homes, support for business and jobs, and helping those on the lowest incomes.

Our region is a prime example of why Levelling Up is needed. For generations we faced underinvestment, leading to serious decline. Now, we provide evidence that it can work. When I stood for re-election in May, I was able to point to the money that had been brought in during my first term in office, and the major improvements already underway, from transport to housing to skills. Between 2010 and 2019, the West Midlands was the fastest growing region, closing the gap on the UK average - Levelling Up in action!

Transport is a good example. Last week the Chancellor spoke about bringing regional transport spending to reflect the levels seen in London. This is a point I have often made; that’s why I used a Tube-style map to illustrate my ambitious West Midlands transport plan. Last week the Budget announced over £1bn for us in the West Midlands to make that vision a reality .

We will be cracking on with determining how we invest this in meaningful schemes that genuinely provide a step change in transport provision – like new railway stations, metro lines, backing our bus services, cycle routes, and of course embracing the shift to electric vehicles.

Our challenge is to move at pace to get these improvements done quickly – and in the process help link citizens to new job opportunities, open up areas for further investment and help reach our climate change goals.

A further £1.8billion has been allocated to the biggest challenges facing us in housing, including a big investment in enabling more housing on old derelict brownfield sites. This is another area where the West Midlands has been leading the way, and Digbeth is seeing one of the most exciting of these brownfield projects, with the redevelopment of the former Bull Ring Trading Estate.

I was also pleased to see funding confirmed for affordable housing – another crucial priority. Here in the West Midlands, we have done well with housebuilding performance and brownfield reclamation

– but we need to do much better on providing more affordable homes, as we do as a nation. £8bn has already been allocated to Housing Associations to get on with building affordable housing.

Levelling Up must be visible if it is to have a true impact, and key to that is supporting our town and city centres. We have already seen benefits from the Towns and Future High Street Funds, but now the Levelling Up Fund is also starting to deliver real investment, reinvigorating our civic centres and rejuvenating much-loved buildings.

Important though all these physical changes will be, of course Levelling Up has to mean the Levelling Up of people’s lives and opportunities. It is no secret that I have expressed concerns about the Government’s changes on Universal Credit.

The budget saw a major move to support those affected and a response to the campaigning of, amongst others, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Centre for Social Justice and Resolution Foundation.

The significant cut in the Universal Credit taper rate from 63p to 55p and an increase in the work allowance by £500 means a tax cut targeted to the nation’s two million lowest paid - something worth around £1,000 in their pockets.

If we want to truly Level Up our nation, we must look beyond maps to people and communities .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Becoming Accredited by Investors in People

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 10:58:06 GMT

Throughout the past few weeks, our staff have kindly been providing specific opinions on our Association practices, culture and policies to the wonderful individuals at Investors in People . Upon hearing back very recently regarding our application, we are delighted to announce that we have achieved our accreditation.

Being able to deliver outstanding bespoke care relies so heavily upon the work of our magnificent teams, therefore, knowing they are happy at Birmingham Irish Association means the world to us.

Hearing that our staff feel "empowered to say and do", that it's "the best job they ever had" and that "it's incredible here", further ignites our passion for community and kinship, and view of evolving with the outstanding individuals in our team.

As an Association, we want to thank all of our phenomenal staff members, board of trustees and supporters, as without your help, being accredited by Investors in People simply wouldn't be possible.

Read the statement in full from Investors in People about our accreditation, below:

Investors in People is delighted to award Birmingham Irish Association, Midlands' leading charity providing support and cultural services to the Irish community, the We Invest in People, standard accreditation.

It means principles and practices around supporting people are in place and everyone understands how to use them to make work better!

Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, said: “We’d like to congratulate Birmingham Irish Association. Being accredited with We Invest in People is a remarkable effort for any organisation, and places Birmingham Irish Association in fine company with a host of organisations that understand the value of people.”

Commenting on the award, Maurice Malone, CEO, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with this wonderful news, and so proud."

We believe that the success of your organisation begins and ends with people. If we make work better for everyone, we make work better for every organisation. And if we do that, we make society stronger, healthier and happier.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our Computer Hub

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 10:52:19 GMT

Throughout the past eighteen months, we have heard so many speak of just how much of a challenge it has been to keep in touch with loved ones.

This, of course, has mainly been due to pandemic restrictions, but also because of not feeling they have the skills to take full advantage of the tech devices they own in their everyday life.

This is why, last year, we launched our fantastic Computer Hub. Now a bustling group who meet each Wednesday afternoon in St Anne's Parish Hall, it offers a wonderful opportunity for those over 50 who want to learn more about how technology can help to connect with others and to make life easier, in a fun and engaging way.

Our ultimate aim is for all members to grow in confidence and master skills needed to understand how to make technology work for them in everyday life, and not the other way around.

So no matter what queries yourself or your loved ones have, we are sure that this can give you a helping hand.

To find out more about our Computer Hub, please call 07880385378

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our Ramblers Walking Group

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 10:50:49 GMT

It's safe to say that for many, the last eighteen months have opened their eyes to the true beauty that Birmingham has to offer, in its vast green spaces stretched across the length and breadth of the city.

As an Association, we wanted to ensure that those who found this passion were able to continue, as we approached normal life once more, therefore, we launched our weekly Ramblers Walking Group.

Since then, the group has evolved into a brilliant group of individuals who meet each Friday morning in the city centre, and travel to a new location together to enjoy the true peace and tranquillity nature brings.

To find out more about our Weekly Ramblers Walking Group, please call 07880385378

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Paving the way for new era for the GAA in Britain

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 10:49:02 GMT

The Irish community in the West Midlands has always made a huge contribution to life here, in terms of everything from industry to faith, from charity work to culture.

In the sporting arena too, our Irish connections have provided memorable moments and much-loved idols, from the likes of Paul McGrath and Jack Grealish at Aston Villa to our own Olympic bronze medallist gymnast Alice Kinsella, whose dad Mark played football for Ireland.

But in this column, I want to celebrate news that will ensure a bright future in the West Midlands for a different kind of footie – Gaelic football .

I am delighted that the planned redevelopment of Warwickshire GAA's Páirc na hÉireann has been approved by Solihull Council paving the way for a new era for the GAA in Britain.

Páirc na hÉireann has hosted numerous Warwickshire Gaelic football and hurling matches as well as the provincial knockout championships and the British University Gaelic Football Championships.

It also regularly hosts hurling teams from Ireland, following the entry of Warwickshire's hurling team into the Lory Meagher Cup and the Leinster Junior Shield.

I put my full support behind this proposal, because I know just how important the game is to the Irish community, and also because I was impressed with the way the GAA was committed to opening up facilities there to the wider community.

Unanimous support was granted at a planning committee for the new development to the south of the current site on Catherine-de-Barnes Lane.

It means that the future of the site has been secured, with two new pitches and a brand-new clubhouse joining the existing main pitch.

I believe it’s a huge honour for the West Midlands to host Pairc na hÉireann, as it is not only the home of the GAA in Warwickshire but the whole of Britain.

It has 3,000 volunteer members and attracts people from across Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton to engage in Gaelic football, hurling and camogie.

That’s why these plans won strong cross-party support in the region, with myself, local MP Saqib Bhatti, former Transport Minister John Spellar MP and Labour MP Jack Dromey all getting behind the proposals.

It also reflects a positive and productive partnership between the GAA and Highways England.

The ground’s redevelopment is part of the M42 Improvement Scheme, which will see a road run directly through the site’s current pitches and clubhouse.

However, Highways England are fully supportive of getting the new facilities in place, and, while there will no doubt be disruption over the coming months, by working with the local council and the community, the GAA will literally build the future of Gaelic games in the new Páirc na hÉireann, right here in our region.

By working together, what at first appeared to be an imminent threat to this wonderful sports facility has been turned into a huge opportunity, not just for the short term, but for generations to come .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Representing the Irish Youth Foundation in the Vitality Big Half Marathon (an update)

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 20:28:02 GMT

As we slowly evolve away from the chaos of the pandemic, it's wonderful to see the journey we have made in helping our Birmingham community when it needed us most. There have been so many organisations and friends who have helped us to be a rock for our citizens through delivering essential services, one of which being our wonderful supporters, the Irish Youth Foundation.

Established in 1989, the Irish Youth Foundation is the only national charity in Britain who specifically aim to help disadvantaged young Irish people and their families. We are so incredibly grateful for their support in ensuring that our youth projects have continued in this difficult period, as these services have never been more in demand than they are today .

In order to thank the Irish Youth Foundation for their ongoing generosity, our CEO, Maurice Malone, proudly represented them in the Vitality Big Half Marathon 2021 in London on 22nd August, who performed absolutely spectacularly. As an Association, it's safe to say that we cannot be prouder.

To everyone who has supported through donating to this project, we can't express how grateful we are to you as it truly means the absolute world to us. So far we are pleased to announce that through the Vitality Big Half Marathon, Maurice has raised almost £5,000 for the Irish Youth Foundation!

A truly dazzling achievement, which will make a phenomenal difference to countless other Irish Youth Projects throughout the UK.

Maurice said “It was a fantastic experience and something that will live with me for a long time as will the aches and pains. I just want to thank everyone who supported the fundraising and also sent me messages of support. The generosity of all those who contributed is truly humbling and will go some way to keeping the work of the Irish Youth Foundation going.”

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Outreach Dementia School Sessions (August Update)

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 20:26:39 GMT

As an organisation, we understand just how difficult things can be when a loved on is living with dementia, and how the confusion can be especially tough on children.

This very reason is why we are so grateful to have reopened our Outreach Dementia School Sessions to local schools within the Birmingham community, with the support of BBC Children in Need. Through this project, we have been providing a safe space where pupils can learn about dementia in a child-friendly, fun and engaging way, whilst also being able to discuss worries or concerns they may have in a safe and trusting space.

Since reopening this year, we have been able to deliver sessions to Our Lady of Fatima Primary School in Harbourne and The Abbey Primary School in Erdington, and we are hoping to grow this project even further in the coming few months. To all staff and students who have joined us in this venture in 2021 so far, we would like to extend our thanks. We can't express what it means for us to be able to deliver sessions, and to see the children's wonderful engagement and creativity.

For their wonderful support during this incredibly challenging and unpredictable period, we would also like to express monumental thanks to BBC Children in Need. Without their generosity, it would have been very challenging to reach just as many individuals, families and classes as we have done this year, so for this, we cannot thank you enough.

As we are aiming to grow our Outreach Dementia School Project, we are always on the lookout for new schools who would like to join us. To find out more about how we can help your school, please email our Children's Support Worker Paulene, through paulene@birish.org.uk .

For more information about the work of the Dementia Education and Care Services we have on offer, please click here .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Launch of the Ambrose Barlow Dementia Centre Sessions (August update)

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 20:26:35 GMT

Since the news of its launch, it's safe to say that our staff have been busy preparing with our new partners, Ambrose Barlow RC Church and Father Paul Johnson, ready to open the doors to our wonderful new volunteers and clients.

Since our announcement of the project in our July edition, we have been truly overwhelmed with requests from those wanting to join us as volunteers, which we are absolutely delighted about!

At the moment, we are also looking for those individuals who would benefit from visiting our new sessions as a client.

If you would like to find out more information for a neighbour, family member or friend, we would love to hear from you.

Please call Trudy or Sinead through 0121 604 6111 or alternatively, email Sinead through sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: We need one final vaccination push

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 20:25:13 GMT

Recently, I was invited to appear in an NHS video to persuade people across the Midlands to take up the offer of a COVID vaccination.

The NHS video featured a cross section of local people explaining what the vaccine means to them. My own contribution was personal, as I am one of thousands across our region who have lost a loved-one to this terrible disease - my mum. I know very well that if she’d been vaccinated, she’d still be here .

I want to use this column to write about my experience, about where the vaccination programme is now and how Birmingham’s Irish Community can continue to contribute to the fight against COVID – by getting a jab.

I really didn’t anticipate my mum’s death – I was out walking with her just a week before she went into hospital, where she contracted COVID. It was an incredible shock.

The day after she went into hospital, Mum was called for her vaccine jab. It could have saved her life – it’s that simple. And that’s why I feel even more determined to get across the message that everyone should take up the offer to grab a jab.

There is no doubt that the NHS vaccination programme is having a major impact. It has kept around 52,000 people out of hospital and saved an estimated 60,000 lives.

The vaccination programme in the Midlands has constantly expanded to new sites, reached out to more people and ensured that a steady supply of vaccine is available.

Every UK adult has now been offered a vaccination, which was a key part of the decision to ease restrictions and open up businesses.

I have personally worked to ensure there are enough supplies of vaccine to deliver the jabs needed here. We can look everyone in the eye and say they have been invited to get a jab.

Vaccination centres can be found everywhere from town halls to Villa Park, from night spots to supermarkets.

But we still face challenges, with some areas and communities displaying a higher rate of vaccine hesitancy. We are addressing this through outreach work that clearly explains the importance of vaccination, dispels any concerns over safety, and helps people book an appointment or find a drop-in clinic.

There have been huge efforts by many of our faith groups to promote the vaccine, dispelling anti-vax fake news, as well as addressing legitimate concerns around fertility and long-term pre-existing conditions.

Now, with almost three-quarters of adults double-jabbed across the UK, we are seeing the national programme swing to focus more on younger people. People aged from 18-34 now make up more than one in five of those admitted to hospital with the virus.

That’s compared to just one in 20 in that age group at the peak of the winter wave in January. In a young and diverse region such as the West Midlands, a lack of vaccine uptake in these groups is a concern to all. Indeed, the profile of our population means, as a whole, we are more unvaccinated than elsewhere - so there is a real need for young people to get jabbed.

I have been working with the Street Team, a young group promoting work and volunteering opportunities related to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, plus the national Kickstart scheme and apprenticeships .

It has been fantastic to chat to young people and hear about their experiences, as well as telling them about the opportunities being created in my push to create 100,000 jobs in two years. However, we have also been using the initiative to encourage greater vaccine take-up among young people.

The NHS is also working to rapidly extend the programme to 16 and 17-year-olds, while children aged 12 to 15 who are clinically vulnerable or live with adults who are at increased risk will also be invited for their vaccine over the coming weeks too.

This huge national vaccination effort, which began with the oldest people in our society, may seem to be drawing to a conclusion as we focus on our youngest citizens. But there is a risk that we will rest on our laurels, instead of driving to get the job done.

In Birmingham, right now, hospitals are cancelling critical operations because of a lack of ICU beds, as virus cases continue to drain NHS resources. This is not acceptable.

This pandemic has touched all parts of society, impacting tragically on thousands of families, my own included. Yet communities have been sustained throughout by a feeling that we are all in this together. Now, as we face one final push to increase vaccination uptake, we need that spirit more than ever. The message is clear: everyone, of every age and of every background - get the jab!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We are proud to represent Irish Youth Foundation in the Vitality Big Half Marathon

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:33:44 GMT

In our July feature, we wanted to take the opportunity to thank our wonderful Birmingham community for all of the donations received so far in support of our CEO, Maurice Malone, as he will be representing the Irish Youth Foundation in the Vitality Big Half Marathon on the 22 August.

Established in 1989, the Irish Youth Foundation is an incredibly special organisation, who have been supporting ours and countless other projects across our city, and are the only national charity in Britain who specifically aim to help disadvantaged young Irish people and their families .

The Irish Youth Foundation support a wide range of projects including: help for the homeless; employment and training schemes; women and children escaping violence; young offenders; Irish Travellers; mental health; drug and alcohol rehabilitation programmes; cross-community initiatives as well as social and cultural activities encouraging young people’s awareness of their Irish heritage.

We believe that supporting the Irish Youth Foundation in this way is the very least we can do for them, as their help has been crucial in providing guidance and support to the entire city in these incredibly difficult times we have been facing.

If you have not yet, and would like to sponsor Maurice in his journey to the finish line on the 22 August, we would like to thank you so much and invite you to click here to visit our Virgin Money Giving fundraising page.

"I am delighted to be given the opportunity to take part in the Vitality Big Half to raise funds for the Irish Youth Foundation. For many years they have funded organisations throughout the UK to allow us to support the young people in our community. Without this money, many of the projects aimed at supporting our young people simply wouldn’t happen.

"It has been well documented that mental health and well-being will be an issue for many in the years to come following the pandemic and in particular amongst the younger generation. Please help me to give something back and support the Irish Youth Foundation in their work to provide organisations with the financial backing to support and care for those young people in our community.

“Training is painful and slow at this point and I ache in places I didn’t know existed! However, I'm determined to see the challenge through and if I can get around the course in one piece and finish before it gets dark I will be delighted! Please dig deep to support the Irish Youth Foundation and their wonderful projects. Thank you so much."

Maurice Malone, CEO of Birmingham Irish Association

Go to fundraising page >

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our new Emotional Support Project

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:29:35 GMT

As we take this next, new step in serving our community, we understand just how vital it is to reflect on the current and ever-changing needs of our community, so we can offer help in the most effective way. This difficult period has cast its effects on every single person, every single individual, every single family in our city, no matter their circumstances, and with more detrimental repercussions on some than others.

In early 2020, as we naively approached the beginning of the pandemic, it's safe to say that our society and way of life were reaching an incalculable speed. For most of us, lack of time pushed us to streamline our busy schedules to complete only the most urgent of daily tasks, and worries about the future arose only at night, inconveniently, as we were attempting to recharge for the following day. As, of course, we all now know, a change so herculean was about to take place, a change that would turn lives upside down at a moment's notice.

To say that facing the very nature of lockdown is difficult, is, put simply, an understatement. For many, the combination of a slower pace of life, uncertainty for the future and fear for the safety of loved ones allows dark thoughts and debilitating anxiety to set in in an insidious way, leaving them very susceptible to mental health struggles. With no clear route, and without seeking professional help, navigating through the pandemic in this mindset can be an excruciating experience, especially when living alone without a close support network.

When news of the pandemic reached the Association, our team knew that this would cause momentous emotional turmoil for many in our city, therefore, we set to work in planning our new venture, the Emotional Support Project.

With the need in our city having never been more prominent as it is today, all of our staff are absolutely delighted to announce the launch of this crucial new service and welcome our two new staff members to the team, Rachel and Shelby.

Based in our Family Support Team, Rachel and Shelby will be providing emotional and practical support to a case load of young people experiencing difficulties with mental health, across many locations such as Children's Centres and schools, and in close partnership with Social Workers, Family Support Workers, Mental Health Services and Inclusion Workers. Rachel and Shelby will also be a key contact for other staff here at the Association in terms of providing advice and support in relation to the mental health needs of children and young people as well as referral pathways.

We are certain that their warm, kind and caring natures are perfect for their new roles, and the support they will give will restore light, hope and liberation to those feeling lost and enduring their darkest moments yet.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our new Dementia Care Centre location, Ambrose RC Parish Hall

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:27:55 GMT

Throughout the last two years, we are incredibly grateful to have had the ability to expand our Dementia Care service throughout our city, and are delighted to now have three centres where our client centred care is truly flourishing.

Due to this success, we are now thrilled to announce that in August, we will be working in close partnership with Ambrose Barlow RC Church and Father Paul Johnson, to open an additional Dementia Care Centre in Hall Green.

At the moment, a precise date is to be announced, however we do know that the centre will take place from 10am until 2pm, on every Friday in the Parish Hall, that meals will be provided to clients, and a pick up and drop off service may be available.

At the moment, we are looking for those individuals who would like to join us as volunteers in this exciting new chapter (full training will be available) and also those who would benefit from our client centred care in these new sessions.

If you would like to find out more information, we would love to hear from you. Please call Trudy or Sinead through 0121 604 6111 or alternatively, email Sinead through sinead@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA Health Enablement Worker, Rosie Pocklington

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:25:51 GMT

Since we opened doors to our first clients over 60 years ago, assistance with health, finance and all it surrounds has been an immensely critical aspect in serving our Birmingham communities. Due to an incalculable number of changes in circumstance over the course of the pandemic, this need has sadly soared to colossal heights.

That said, we feel incredible gratitude for our wonderful Health Enablement Worker, Rosie, as her wealth of knowledge and experience enables us to offer bespoke guidance of astounding quality to countless individuals in our city in their most crucial times of need .

As Rosie offers her brilliant counsel through both our one-to-one office appointments, walk in surgeries and individual support, she is able to guide each client through their own unique and sometimes, very stressful and frightening journeys step by step, in a kind, caring and warm way.

We are so exceedingly thankful that you are part of our team Rosie, as every day, you piece the lives back together of so many in our community who so desperately need a helping hand to get back on their feet.

Our next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

For more information on our financial, housing and benefits support,

please click here >

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Call to sign up now to support the Mayor’s Giving Month

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:24:24 GMT

Birmingham’s Irish community is well-known for its charitable work. From the welfare and cultural support provided by the BIA’s charity Birmingham Irish, to the ground-breaking work with the homeless pioneered at Tabor House to the many, many smaller examples of support throughout the pandemic, volunteering and giving have always been part of the make-up of our region’s Irish community.

Well, I want to use my latest column to tell you about a major charity event happening soon, which I hope businesses in the Irish community will embrace with their usual passion and determination .

For the last two years, I have been proud to be the figurehead of the Mayor’s Giving Day, a simple and impactful initiative that strides to build a sense of pride and purpose in the region by showcasing existing charity work and encouraging us all to do a little extra.

Born from the Lord Mayor’s City Day in London, the event enables companies and employees to celebrate and showcase their philanthropic and volunteering achievements while encouraging others to get involved.

This year its back for a third year - but this time it’s Giving Month!

The Mayor's Giving Month begins on Tuesday 21 September 2021, giving businesses the opportunity to support local charities, community groups and good causes across Birmingham and the West Midlands .

And it’s not just about money and donations. Giving takes many different forms. As well as financial support, we give time and skills to those less fortunate, largely through charity intermediaries.

Even a small act, when multiplied by many of us, can make a big difference. This could be through financial donations to charities and community groups, or practical help by offering time and expertise.

The events of the last 16 months have been unprecedented, and I would like to thank the many charities and voluntary groups who have selflessly helped us get through these difficult times by working harder than ever to support vulnerable and isolated people.

We have seen throughout the pandemic that businesses are keen to volunteer and help their local communities by offering their skills, knowledge, expertise and time along with raising essential funds and donations.

Their generosity has been fantastic, and I have seen all kinds of examples of businesses going above and beyond to help people, from local shops delivering food to isolated individuals during lockdown to big businesses providing interview coaching for those who have found themselves out of work .

I look forward to us working with businesses of all sizes during the Giving Month and beyond, as the region starts to recover from the pandemic.

Whatever size of business you represent and whatever sector you operate in, our local good causes would welcome your support. There are some amazing and fun ideas for what you can do and how you can get involved in the Mayor's Giving Month, including virtual events for those working from home, so please register to find out more.

Businesses that would like to contribute to the Mayor’s Giving Month can sign up here: www.wmca.org.uk/who-we-are/meet-the-mayor/giving-month

Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your event photos/videos #WMGivingMonth21

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Community Champions: BIA Friend, Mick O’ Brien and the Warwickshire GAA

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 20:04:53 GMT

Over the last few weeks, our teams at Birmingham Irish Association have been reflecting on all that we have achieved together since the arrival of the Coronavirus in March 2020.

There is still a long way to go in helping those experiencing the devastating effects of the pandemic, but in the June and following editions of our monthly newsletter, we want to express our incalculable gratitude to those incredible individuals, friends and supporters who have been there for us so far by dedicating a Community Champion article to each of them.

Without these wonderful, kind and wholesome people, it would have been impossible to be there for every single person who knocked on our door over the last 16 months. This month, we want to start our Community Champion articles with our inspirational friend, Mick O' Brien from Sean McDermott’s GAA Club.

Over many years, we have formed a very close bond with Mick and the Warwickshire GAA, but we truly feel that our community work throughout the pandemic has brought us even closer together. When Mick heard about our small food bank initiative at the beginning of March 2020, he was so very kind enough to get Warwickshire GAA on board.

Since then, the 'Clubs Together' campaign has continued to support all of the vulnerable across our city through school donation collections and countless revolving food drop offs by Sean McDermott’s, Erin Go Bragh, St Brendan's and John Mitchel's GAA clubs.

As the crisis began to spread, and the needs of our community shifted, Mick and the GAA clubs were so incredibly generous through regular, monetary donations for our hot dinner deliveries/collections and clothes for our centre. The GAA's help allowed us to stretch our capacity to astounding levels, reaching every vulnerable and affected person in all corners of Birmingham.

As December arrived, so did preparations for Christmas, and instead of our usual grotto for the community, we decided to organise a Toy Appeal, to collect new and unwrapped gifts for those families in the communities with a much lower budget for the festive season. Once again, Mick and the GAA were there to support us with an overwhelming amount of donations that filled our Parish Centre Hall.

In early November, Mick also completed a five day sponsored challenge that saw him walk over 60 miles along all of the major canals in Birmingham, Warwickshire and the Black Country, all to support our Christmas Toy Appeal.

After crossing the finish line, an anonymous donator offered Mick a second challenge; for every mile walked on an extra day, £10 would be donated to the appeal. This was truly phenomenal generosity on both parts, as on the day, Mick and his son Deaglan were up at the crack of dawn and walked an extra 25 miles in aid of our appeal.

With unwavering help from Mick and the GAA, we were able to deliver new and unwrapped gifts to over 500 families in the first week of December, ready to wrap and put under the tree ready for the big day.

Mick and GAA members, staff and parents, we cannot begin to put our emotions and thanks into words for the unfaltering help you have given since March 2020 and always, know that we will never forget this. You have provided an awe-inspiring lifeline for our community in their darkest and most frightening hours of need, whilst helping us achieve milestones as a charity we never thought possible.

For this we are eternally grateful.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Reminder: BIA representing the Irish Youth Foundation in the Vitality Big Half Marathon

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 20:01:50 GMT

Over the last twelve months, the pandemic has impacted each and every one of us. As a charity, it would have been impossible to continue our projects and support for our community, would it not have been for our many friends and supporters who have been there for us in every step of the way.

One of our incredible supporters are the Irish Youth Foundation, established in 1989, and the only national charity in Britain who specifically aim to help disadvantaged young Irish people and their families.

In order to thank the Irish Youth Foundation for their ongoing support, our CEO, Maurice Malone, will be proudly representing them in the Vitality Big Half Marathon 2021 in London on 22nd August, despite having no prior running experience. If you would like to sponsor Maurice in this challenge, we thank you so much and invite you to click here to visit our Virgin Money Giving fundraising page.

“The past year has been difficult for us all on a personal level and the impact of the pandemic has had a disastrous effect on charities who heavily rely on fundraising to survive and provide the fantastic services to our community. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to take part in the Vitality Big Half to raise funds for the Irish Youth Foundation. For many years they have funded organisations throughout the UK to allow us to support the young people in our community. Without this money, many of the projects aimed at supporting our young people simply wouldn’t happen.

Maurice Malone, CEO of Birmingham Irish Association

Go to fundraising page >

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA Children's Support Worker, Paulene McDermott

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 20:01:45 GMT

Our many years of caring for the Birmingham Irish diaspora in the city have taught us many things. One being how crucial it is to have a family support team with a truly wholesome, understanding and patient nature. It's safe to say that few people we know embody this more than our Children's Support Worker, Paulene McDermott.

It's no secret that cases of dementia are on a steady rise in the UK, which is truly heartbreaking for those individuals, and their loved ones. The raw, emotional pain they feel is relentless, and can be incredibly confusing and upsetting for children as, out of the blue, the behaviour of dear aunt, uncle, grandparent or family member has changed .

Children often do not want to or have the opportunity to speak about it, and this can lead them to blame themselves. This very reason is why we are so relieved and delighted that Paulene's wonderful primary school dementia outreach workshops are able to begin again.

Funded by Children in Need and the Irish Youth Foundation, the sessions incorporate fun, engaging and informative activities with opportunities for children to ask questions, enabling a higher level of understanding and empathy in an incredibly effective way. Paulene's seamless delivery allows her wonderful nature to shine through, which builds trust with all children involved, and naturally allows a safe space to form where honest discussions form organically and children can voice their concerns.

Paulene, we want to thank you for all the extraordinary work you are delivering for us, as so many families that are experiencing heartache have never needed a lifeline from us more than they do presently. Through guiding their children and providing discussions that could be very difficult in the family setting, you are actively lightening their load and bringing more wholesome moments to their lives, which we all know, are so very crucial and precious.

Our next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Advice for those travelling between England and Ireland

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 20:00:11 GMT

With recent changes allowing borders to open between England and Ireland, naturally, we have received many enquiries about meeting all requirements for travel for long anticipated trips to see family and friends. In this article, we wanted to give some clarity to those planning visits to Ireland, and in particular, what tests, documents and quarantining periods are needed to do so.

For those travelling to both the Republic and Northern Ireland, It is advised to gather two things for each way of your journey; a completed Passenger Locator Form and a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Many clients have and have not been asked to show these on departure, so personally, we advise contacting your flight provider, to ensure that all bases are covered before your trip.

For ease, we have included below a description of what exactly these forms and tests are, and also contact links to Ireland's main airline providers, as we know all too well how easy it is to be misinformed and confused by what is required at the moment.

For all travelling, it is crucial for Passenger Locator Form to be filled in within 48 hours of arriving to Ireland or back to England, and it will be needed before boarding your plane or ferry. It is free to complete, can be done online and may be used to contact you in the following 14 days to verify your details, to provide you with public health advice and for the purposes of contact tracing in relation to confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19.

To complete a Passenger Locator Form for arrival in Ireland, please click here .
To complete a Passenger Locator Form for arrival to England, please click here .

There are a couple of things you need to know regarding tests as both types are very different, in both price, location of test and the amount of detail in results. Lateral flow tests are those frequently being completed at home, free and test simply for contagiousness of COVID-19. PCR tests, on the other hand, give more detailed results, incur a cost of a passenger's own expense and are completed only through a COVID-19 testing provider.

The type of test you will most likely need to provide is a PCR test, specifically a negative result for an RT-PCR test for arrival in Ireland and a negative result for a PT-PCR for arrival back to England. It's important that these tests are completed no less than 72 hours before arrival.

To view a list of providers, based in England that offer PCR tests for arrival in Ireland, please click here .

To book a PCR test in Ireland for arrival in England.

Please click here .

It's also important to bear in mind that all travellers arriving from England to Ireland will be asked to complete a mandatory quarantine at home for 14 days, by law. Passengers are also requested by the Irish Government to complete a second RT-PCR test which will be free of charge, either by booking through the Irish Government website or with their local walk in HSE test centre . If fully vaccinated, passengers are able to take this test on day 5 of their quarantine period and complete their period if the result. However, if the individual is not fully vaccinated, they will need to complete the test on day 10 and still quarantine until day 14, providing they are symptomless.

When returning to England, no travellers will need to complete a quarantine period if the test taken 72 hours before their flight is negative, as Ireland is still currently categorised as 'green', however, everyone will need to book a PCR test, on or before, the second day after arrival, at their own expense.

We hope that this gives a little more clarity on the process and peace of mind to those travelling. However, please know that this is our personal guidance and for more information on requirements for individual flights, please contact your provider, for ease we have included help page links to Ireland's main travel companies below.

Suggested travel companies:

Ryanair - www.help.ryanair.com

Aerlingus - www.aerlingus.com/support/contact-us

EasyJet - www.easyjet.com/en/help/contact

Stena Line - www.stenaline.co.uk/customer-services

Irish Ferries - www.irishferries.com/uk-en/contact-us

Other related links you may find useful:

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Plans for Digbeth High Street will support jobs and investment

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 19:52:42 GMT

The heart of Birmingham’s Irish Community has always been in Digbeth. Now, Digbeth High Street is to be at the heart of one of the biggest transformations the city has seen in many years, with improved transport links, more open space and huge investment?

Crucially, it’s hoped that these changes will bring new opportunities and jobs to the area and increase footfall for local businesses, boosting the local economy as we build back better out of the pandemic. I want to use this latest column to tell you a little about the exciting things being planned for Digbeth.

The major remodelling works will see the High Street transformed into a pedestrian-friendly space served by much-improved public transport links .

The Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) has allocated £15.4m from its Enterprise Zone Investment Plan (EZIP) to Birmingham City Council to redevelop Digbeth, with an additional £272,000 is being provided by the council. The works, which should begin this summer, will complement construction of the Birmingham Eastside Metro extension in the area.

It is great that work is set to start this summer, creating local jobs at what is a critical time as we recover from the Covid pandemic. The improved transport links and street environment will also help support jobs and investment in the Digbeth area for years to come. So, what is happening?

Firstly, the Metro will be realigned to allow for wider pavements, better cycle routes and increased cycle parking. The idea is to make the area more attractive for pedestrians and residents, increasing customer numbers, bringing more commercial investment and supporting local businesses.

Improvements to the street scene are set to commence in July and are expected to be completed next summer. They will include a two-way Metro running on the southern side of Digbeth, closest to the coach station, providing a fast and frequent public transport link to the West of Birmingham and the Black Country .

A wide area of public space will include planting, trees, street lighting and flexible spaces for seating.

There are also changes to Digbeth’s roads planned, which aim to make the area more pedestrian-friendly, while still allowing businesses to load and unload.

Digbeth, of course, is located near the landmark Curzon HS2 station, and these improvements also aim to maximise the benefits of that development.

The expansion of the Metro in Digbeth and to the east of the city will make it easier for local people to get around, and will help transform and support the regeneration of Digbeth by improving connectivity and making the most out of HS2.Even before the Metro is carrying passengers locally, the area will be renewed through these ambitious street scene improvements.

Of course, as with any major infrastructure project, there will be some disruption. Every effort will be made to minimise impacts on traffic and reduce any disturbance as far as possible, and travel advice will be provided by Transport for West Midlands and transport operators. But these plans, and the major investment behind them, represent a real opportunity to transform Digbeth, providing a timely boost the local economy just when we need it .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We are proud to represent Irish Youth Foundation in the Vitality Big Half Marathon

Tue, 25 May 2021 19:23:59 GMT

Maurice Malone, CEO of Birmingham Irish Association

Go to fundraising page >

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA Dementia Centre Care Support Worker, Sharon Toy

Tue, 25 May 2021 19:19:19 GMT

Since June 1957, Birmingham Irish Association have always taken pride in the dedication, strength and empathy that all staff embody. Throughout our 60 years in the city, it’s safe to say we have served, comforted and shared light to our community through many a troubling time.

To do this without our wonderful team would be impossible, and a magnificent example of how strength, dedication and empathy is shown is through the work of one of our fantastic Dementia Care Support Worker, Sharon .

In January 2020, we were delighted to announce the opening of Sharon's new dementia centre, based in Maryvale Community Centre, and to see it doing wonderfully. Whilst open, we saw many regular clients and a wealth of creative, engaging and popular activities being explored. With the arrival of the pandemic a couple of months later, the centre sadly had to be put on pause to channel energy into new emergency ventures.

As an organisation, we are so grateful for Sharon's hard work, optimism and wholesome nature as this has brought such warmth to every aspect of our emergency COVID-19 extended services over the last twelve months.

You are a credit to us Sharon, as all our staff are. We look in hope to this next chapter, as Maryvale Dementia Centre reopens and brings light to those and their families who need our help more than ever before.

Our next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

For more information on plans to reopen our services, please click here

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Andy Street: Community ownership can help secure the future of our pubs

Tue, 25 May 2021 19:18:08 GMT

Since I was re-elected as Mayor of the West Midlands, my diary has been full – and rightly so. There is much to be done?

Throughout the campaign, my message was always that I was ready to get straight back to work – to start the task of creating 100,000 jobs in the next two years, attracting new investment and pressing on with our transport and housing plans. Thanks to detailed planning, we were ready to hit the ground running.

Now we have seen a major step towards recovery, as lockdown restrictions were eased further. For the owners of restaurants, cafes, gyms, fitness clubs, wedding venues, holiday lets, hotels, B&Bs and many other types of business this is a huge step forward .

In this column, I want to focus on pubs. Pubs are, quite simply, part of the fabric of life. That’s why, I believe, my visit to a Wolverhampton pub while on the campaign trail with the Prime Minister last month gathered so much interest. For many, the simple act of being able to go out for a pint has become shorthand for a return to normality.

I know that Birmingham’s Irish community values its pubs greatly, not just as brilliant places to go for a drink but as centres for local life. Venues like Hennessey's Bar, in Allison Street, Clearys Irish Bar in Moseley Street and the Spotted Dog and St Annes Club, in Alcester Street, provide a sense of social cohesion within the Irish community in the Brum.

I want to tell you about a scheme launched here to help protect local pubs, and also how I believe it reflects broader changes across society regarding much-loved community assets, and how the growing Social Economy can protect them.

The pandemic has had a brutal effect on our pubs. The facts are stark - over 2,500 pubs across the UK closed down in 2020 – an increase of 50% on the previous year, and a figure which represents 5% of all pubs in the country. While venues lucky enough to have outdoor space have been able to safely serve some customers since mid-April, the easing of indoor restrictions has been long awaited. Only around 40% of the UK’s pubs have outside serving space.

Throughout the pandemic, I have battled for extra help for the hospitality industry, but the cruel reality is that at the time when we are most looking forward to visiting pubs again, there will be less of them to return to .

Of course, many pubs will make a strong recovery once lockdown is lifted, but some inevitably will not. That’s why we have launched a scheme to give people the chance to save those pubs by bringing them into community ownership.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has partnered with Plunkett Foundation, a community business charity, to help community groups establish action plans, build capacity and raise the finance to take ownership of local pubs. The statistics show that it works, too. Community-owned pubs have a 99.3% long-term survival rate.

An initial £10,000 investment will enable the Plunkett Foundation to support seven community pub groups - one from each of the boroughs that make up the WMCA. Those groups will get tailored business support and advice, online training, peer-to-peer networking and the chance to visit some of the 150 existing community-run pubs in the UK.

Crucially, saving pubs will also help address issues of isolation, loneliness, wellbeing, work and training as well as protecting much-loved community businesses and buildings .

But I also believe that this new scheme reflects a broader change across society, where communities are stepping forward to take responsibility for local assets they value. Sometimes the people involved are volunteers who simply want to ensure that a cherished building looks at its best, sometimes they are organised groups with serious business plans to revitalise services and create jobs. The common factor is that communities across the West Midlands are realising they can help retain much-loved buildings and boost local civic pride.

There are all lots of local examples, from volunteers looking after historic railway stations to local Trusts fighting to revive old cinemas and swimming baths.

The Government also recognises the huge potential of community ownership with the £150 million Community Ownership Fund set to open in June.

Our new scheme to bring pubs into community ownership adds another important part to a tapestry of social enterprises, charities and organisations that often form the social safety net needed to support those impacted by the tough times we are living in.

If there has been one positive thing to come out of the pandemic, it has been the renewed sense of community spirit born of adversity. As they open their doors again, publicans will be hoping to see that reflected by ringing tills. This new scheme will ensure more can keep their doors open – and we can all raise a glass to that .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We are planning to reopen our services once more

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 19:55:48 GMT

In this month's edition of our newsletter, we wanted to share some news with you all that we are incredibly excited about. In the next few weeks, as in the next few weeks, our staff here at Birmingham Irish will be getting our premises ready to welcome you all back to us.

Over the month of May, we will be gradually reopening our main services to ensure the needs of our community are met in the best way possible. To give optimal clarity on our reopening, we have included a timeline below.

If you have any questions or queries, or if you would like to book an appointment in advance, please feel free to call us on 0121 604 6111.

We would also like to let those know who would like to reach us by phone, that from 17th May, our helpline will be formally replaced by our office number, 0121 604 6111. We look forward to seeing you all very soon!

Monday 10th May - We will be welcoming our clients back for their Dementia Centre sessions who visit us in St Anne's Parish Hall in Digbeth. To make a referral for a loved one, or to find out more information, please call Sinead on 07837 137984 or drop an email to sinead@birish.org.uk

Monday 17th May - We will be opening our front office in Digbeth strictly for those clients with appointments only, to offer guidance for passport, benefits and financial matters. To book an appointment, please call our main office on 0121 604 6111.

Tuesday 18th May - We will be welcoming our clients back for their Dementia Centre sessions who visit us in St Dunstan's Parish Hall in Kings Heath. To make a referral for a loved one, or to find out more information, please call Ruth on 07495 711704 or drop an email to ruth@birish.org.uk

Monday 19th May - We will be welcoming our clients back for their Dementia Centre sessions who visit us in Maryvale Community Centre in Kingstanding. To make a referral for a loved one, or to find out more information, please call Sharon on 07495 711695 or drop an email to sharon@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA Dementia Centre Care Support Worker, Ruth Geoghegan

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 19:52:01 GMT

Over the course of the pandemic, it's safe to say that everything we have achieved so far as an organisation would be impossible without the sheer dedication, flexibility and teamwork from our small group of staff.

A wonderful example of the way in which our team has shifted and evolved with the ever-changing circumstances, is the hard work of our lovely Dementia Care Support Worker, Ruth.

Prior to the pandemic, Ruth was beginning to manage her own dementia centre with us at our Kings Heath location, but sadly, coronavirus had other plans and we had to close despite its brilliant success shortly after its opening .

Since then, Ruth's role with us has significantly changed, as she has been working incredibly hard with the rest of the team on all aspects of our COVID-19 extended services. From delivering, cooking and collection of hot meals and lunch bags, to taking calls from the public on our helpline, you're sure to see Ruth sharing positivity and a helping hand.

As an organisation, we can't begin to explain how much we owe to Ruth and those in her position in our organisation. We thank you so much as the optimism, drive and commitment to serve our community in their hour of need is what changes lives every single day, for hundreds across our city.

Our next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

For more information on plans to reopen our services, please click here

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Celtic School Cultural Project (April update)

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 19:48:21 GMT

As you may already know from the March edition of our newsletter, we were able to begin our Irish Cultural Sessions last month at The Abbey Catholic Primary School in Erdington with session leader and talented folk musician, Jobe Baker Sullivan of local band 'Ire-ish'.

Even a month on, it's safe to say that we at the Association are still absolutely delighted and so grateful that it could still go ahead, as it gave an exciting new project and a creative release to their two Year 3 classes on their first day back at school after the lockdown.

Since our last update in March, the classes have enjoyed eight vibrant sessions in total, including two focused on percussion and led by Jobe's fantastic bandmate, Joe Cook. As a result of the sessions the children have so far learned the basics of notes and sheet music, and to play simple tunes together on the bodhran, tin whistle and ukelele. Soon they will be learning their Irish performance piece to play together in June, which we are so very excited to hear!

As an organisation, we want to extend massive thanks to The Abbey Catholic School in Erdington, for making these sessions a possibility, and also to both Jobe Baker Sullivan and Joe Cook for working with us and sharing their wonderful knowledge with the next generation. This project truly couldn't be possible without you all, and we are so grateful for your hard work.

All primary school years are welcome to take part. To register your interest, please email jennifer@birish.org.uk

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Mayor Andy Street: How I'll get the West Mids back on track and unleash our potential

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 19:46:59 GMT

On May 6th, the people of the West Midlands face a critical choice: do we accelerate the progress of the last four years, or do we go back to the old failing approach which led to decades of decline for our region?

In this column, I want to explain to members of the Birmingham Irish Association how our region has progressed in the last few years, the challenges we all face now, and how I intend to tackle them if re-elected.

Before COVID struck, the West Midlands had begun to reclaim its place as an economically successful region, after decades of stagnation. As we come out of the pandemic, there is much to do to ensure we don’t throw away those years of progress.

The significant strides made here since I was elected Mayor on 4 May 2017 are borne out by the statistics. From 2017-2020, a record-breaking 48,098 homes were built here, nearly double the 25,000 target set in 2017 .

This year, the level of transport investment was seven times higher than in the year before I became Mayor. The building of the metro in Digbeth, at the heart of the Irish community, is a great example of this. We have made fantastic progress in reducing the number of rough sleepers, with Tabor House is based in the Birmingham Irish Association building making a huge contribution.

More than 97,000 new jobs were created in the region overall in the three years before the pandemic, the most of any region outside the capital.

More than £3 billion of new funding was brought in from Government. This has been achieved thanks to my background in business as the MD of John Lewis. To win investment, you have to build a business case and show how you will deliver it.

Now however, sectors like retail, hospitality and manufacturing have seen thousands of workers laid off or furloughed. We must act quickly to get back on track post COVID.

That’s why my first priority will be to create more than 100,000 new good quality local jobs and training opportunities for local people.

That means winning every possible contract for local businesses from major regional projects like HS2 and the Commonwealth Games .

It also means securing an electric battery Gigafactory for our region, bringing 4,000 new jobs and protecting thousands more in the automotive industry and supply chain.

It means making the most of the creative revolution starting in Digbeth, with new TV studios opening and major investment from the BBC on the way.

I want our region to become the national leader in construction, engineering, life sciences, technology, 5G and other growing industries.

I have plans to double transport spending to half a billion pounds per year. On housing, I will build thousands of new homes where they are wanted. That means continuing our successful “brownfield first” approach, with over £400 million of funding to reclaim derelict sites, protecting our Green Belt and boosting construction.

I will launch a programme to retrofit people’s homes with energy efficiency measures to reduce fuel bills and carbon emissions, bringing huge opportunities to the businesses and trades employed to carry it out.

I believe part of the success of the last four years can be put down to the communities of the West Midlands finally working together, from the seven boroughs that make up our region to groups like Birmingham Irish Association who work tirelessly to improve the life of local people. I have tried as Mayor to bring people and communities together .

My message is simple: I have a credible delivery plan to make all of this happen, and a proven track record over the last four years, beating our targets and other city-regions on investment, skills and housing.

My commitment is to secure £10 billion of new investment into the region, from both the Government and private investors, with a clear business-like approach to the Mayor’s role as a regional champion. That means working with Government to make things happen, rather than criticising and grabbing headlines, and then being ignored.

I grew up here. Local values shaped me as a person – that’s why four years ago I decided to step away from a career in business and stand to be Mayor. I urge the people of the West Midlands to choose me to get on with the job, get this region back on track and unleash our potential .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Introducing our wonderful friends, the Erin Go Bragh team of the Warwickshire GAA

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 19:22:00 GMT

This month, we would like to let you know of the wonderful people at Erin Go Bragh. Over the past year, they, along with all other teams at Warwickshire GAA, have given the most incredible support to Birmingham Irish Association and the Birmingham community.

Through the organisation and execution of our ‘Clubs Together’ food bank campaign , and incredibly generous donations to the Birmingham Irish Christmas Toy Appeal, it’s safe to say the teams have been there for their city in their most crucial hour of need.

Since the birth of Erin Go Bragh in Birmingham, the team has seen massive growth from football coaches increasing from two to ten members and their hurling team now regularly training over 50 kids aged 5+ every Wednesday night in Holly Lane.

To date, the team now have over 100 children registered of all ages and abilities, whose families bring a massive sense of community and wellbeing, as many relatives are team managers for the club. Other team members also include nephews and cousins of the last team to win the last championship, around 2008 as well as the children of the lead hurling coaches.

Prior to the pandemic, the last game to take place for the Erin Go Bragh team was the championship cup in Páirc na hÉireann on Saturday 21st September 2019, and what a wonderful game it was. The win from their under 11 team was achieved through an accumulation of a few years growth and driven by the determination of club members who had a vision, passion and sustained belief that the way forward was to grow from the bottom up.

Here at the Association, we are so relieved and glad that Gaelic football and hurling teams can once again resume play very soon, as their games bring such joy, warmth and sense of family to our Birmingham community, something that we have all so sorely missed over the past year.

The team always welcome new members at their Holly Lane location in Erdington, so if you or a loved one would like to know more about how to join as a member, please get in contact through their Facebook page or their Twitter profile.

Facebook page link – www.facebook.com/egb.camogiebirmingham
Twitter profile link - www.twitter.com/erin_gaa

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Celtic School Cultural Project (March update)

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 19:18:18 GMT

With schools reopening this month, everyone here at Birmingham Irish were so happy to hear that a first set of sessions had taken place at The Abbey Catholic Primary School in Erdington.

On the day of the first session, teachers kept the project secret from the pupils, so they would have a surprise treat for their first day back at school.

It's safe to say their faces were a picture when they found out, and they were so happy they were able to take their new musical instrument home to practice!

As an organisation, we would like to give special thanks to musician, Jobe Baker Sullivan of local band 'Ire-ish' and The Abbey Catholic Primary School, for going above and beyond to make these sessions so special, we can't thank you enough.

If you are a teacher, or are part of a school who would be interested in our sessions , please email jennifer@birish.org.uk for further information.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Mayor Andy Street: Why Digbeth will be at the heart of a Brummie TV revolution

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 19:15:45 GMT

Right now Line of Duty, one of the BBC’s most successful shows, is gripping the nation once again after returning to our tv screens for its highly anticipated fifth series. The hit crime drama is one of a number of major TV productions made in Northern Ireland, making a significant contribution the local economy there.

However, few people know that the first series of this hit show – the one that established it as a fans’ favourite – was made in Birmingham.

In fact, Line of Duty was created by West Midlands-born Jed Mercurio, who lived for several years in Birmingham where he worked as a doctor in local hospitals.

I don’t know why production of the show moved away from Birmingham, but its move was certainly emblematic of how the BBC were ignoring our city .

Now, all this is changing – with a landmark announcement from the BBC and significant plans for independent production studios, following years of lobbying by myself, and huge combined efforts by our talented creative industry. In TV parlance, we are ‘ready for our close up’ – and Digbeth is going to be at the very heart of the changes.

For decades, Birmingham boasted one of the biggest BBC centres in the country – Pebble Mill – which was home to the Archers, Top Gear, The Clothes Show, Countryfile, Gardeners World and the daily magazine show Pebble Mill at One. Its studios were used to film All Creatures Great and Small, Boys from the Blackstuff, Doctors, Dangerfield, Howards' Way, Juliet Bravo, Dalziel and Pascoe and more.

After the BBC closed the famous studios in 2004, its presence in the region shrank to a shadow of its former self. By 2011, the Corporation had opened its huge base at Salford’s MediaCity, in Greater Manchester - where it employs more than 3,000 people.

This, for me, was another symbol of how our region was being left behind other parts of the country. It wasn’t just about the loss of jobs and investment, critical though that was, it also meant that talent from our region would be forced to move elsewhere.

I t also showed a major national institution turning away from us, and not just any institution – the BBC isn’t like any other business. It is one we all pay for through our licence fee and it was clear that West Midlands people were getting a poor return on the money they were contributing to BBC coffers. Quite simply, the BBC was investing less in the Midlands than any other part of the country .

And it’s not just about money – it’s about representation. Think about this: how many TV shows can you name that are set in the Midlands? TV schedules are full of gritty northern dramas, London cop shows or programmes that use famous regional landmarks as their backdrops. Happy Valley is set in Yorkshire, Unforgotten, Luther and Marcella in London, Broadchurch in Dorset. The biggest soaps are in the capital, Manchester and the Yorkshire Dales. Doctor Who may travel anywhere in time and space, but the Tardis chose to move its regular base from Wales to Sheffield.

Yes, we have the sublime Peaky Blinders and Line of Duty subtly hints at an anonymous Midlands setting, but there are very, very few shows where you can see life here on your screens, or hear our accents. As one of the UK’s most densely populated places, this underrepresentation is simply wrong.

Last week, the BBC announced ambitious plans for its biggest transformation in decades, including moving more programme making and investment to the West Midlands, finally delivering the kind of investment that our region has been crying out for.

This followed months of negotiations with new BBC Director General Tim Davie, and means that over the next six years the corporation will increase activity across the region, with at least one new primetime drama series and one new primetime entertainment series commissioned here.

This will not only bring new jobs and opportunities, it will also give us the chance to tell our own stories, express our creativity, make our voices heard and ensure a fairer representation for the region on the cultural landscape. However, it will also mean that the BBC will benefit hugely from the incredible pool of talent here .

Under my leadership, the West Midlands Combined Authority helped set up Create Central to bring together the local screen industry to lead the development of plans to grow the sector. This included £2 million for Create Central to fund a programme of activities to boost the film, TV and games sector in the region, with £500,000 to run bootcamps to teach young people the skills they need to work in the TV production sector.

All this activity means the arrival of more BBC activity coincides with a creative explosion here – and it’s centred around Digbeth. Two major new production facilities are already planned in the spiritual home of Birmingham’s Irish community - Mercian Studios, an international film studios and media village, led by the creator of the Peaky Blinders, and a new Creative Content Hub for independent TV and content production.

All of this will bring jobs and opportunities to Digbeth – and, who knows, perhaps a few stars too!

Over the next few weeks, the UK will be gripped by Line of Duty, a TV phenomenon that began here in the West Midlands. Soon, the Peaky Blinders will return to our screens too. The news that the BBC is to finally take full advantage of the immense talent to be found here will mean viewers can look forward to many more local TV classics – many of them made in Digbeth .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A century after partition, it still shapes our present

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:16:31 GMT

Throughout the last century, many transformative events occurred and caused a prominent partition on the island of Ireland.

The effects of these events ultimately led to six of the nine Ulster counties remaining within the United Kingdom and the rest of the island opting for self-determination and what would become an independent republic .

As the present Ireland currently engages in recalling this history, Michael D. Higgins published a recent message, guiding those on how to ethically remember, fully understand the complexities of when these uncomfortable events occurred and to recognise the reverberations of that past for our societies today and for relationships with each other and neighbours.

"Only by remembering complex, uncomfortable aspects of Britain and Ireland’s shared history can we forge a better future".

Michael D Higgins, President of Ireland .

To read the article in full, please click here .

all credits : The Guardian

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Consistory Court of the Diocese of Coventry decision on the Margaret Keane memorial stone

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:11:25 GMT

As an organisation, we can't imagine the pain felt over the last three years by the Keane family, as describing it as simply difficult would be a complete understatement.

Over this period of time, the family have been fighting for the right to have a Gaelic-only inscription of 'In ár gcroíthe go deo' ('forever in our hearts'), as an epitaph for Margaret's headstone, and due to their strength and determination, an appeal hearing took place on the 24th February 2021 .

Margaret emigrated from County Meath to Coventry, where she raised her family and worked hard to give back to the community as a dinner lady in a local school. As well as contributing so much to the community, Margaret was incredibly proud of her Irish heritage and because of this, the above epitaph was chosen with an abundance of love and care by her family.

Since the dates of the February hearing were confirmed, the family created an incredible social media campaign using the hashtags '#MessageToMargaret' and #CountdownToCourt' where so many rallied around them to show an immense amount of support.

Amongst these were the Labour Party Irish Society who hosted a very successful online discussion, and were joined by legal teams, organisations, speakers and contributors, as well as individuals wanting to show their support for the family. Those wanting to show their support could also join with those who lit a candle on the eve of the hearing, and posted on social media at 7pm, using the hashtag 'MessageToMargaret'.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA CEO, Maurice Malone

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:09:09 GMT

Together as an organisation, we have been on a long journey since the beginning of last April, and provided a lifeline for hundreds upon hundreds in desperate need throughout our city.

Through incredible leadership and management, we have been able to achieve this as a team, as ensuring safety for all involved and helping every client reaching out is key.

There's no doubt that without our wonderful CEO, Maurice Malone, the sheer scale of tailored support would have been impossible. Care of clients and staff is at the heart of every daily decision he makes, so that we can all continue to serve our community in its most crucial hours.

Thank you so much for all you do for us Maurice. Without your work, our now hundreds of clients would not be receiving the all-important care they so desperately need on a regular basis.

Our next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

2021: Celtic School Cultural Project (update)

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:05:19 GMT

With home-schooling, online learning and lockdown now becoming the new normal, it's safe to say that current circumstances are taking its toll on everyone, especially our little ones.

Over the last few months, staff at Birmingham Irish Association have been planning a new project with other Irish creatives within the city and our local Catholic primary schools, to aid with pupil's catch up of the National Curriculum whilst spreading knowledge of Irish heritage, traditions and culture.

This specific project is soon to be delivered in a handful of schools across the city, once they are able to reopen, and we are planning to deliver flexible sessions within the spring and summer terms of this year.

If you are a teacher, or are part of a school who would be interested in our sessions, please email jennifer@birish.org.uk for further information.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Column by Andy Street, the Mayor of the WM: Digbeth at the heart of transport plans

birishwebsite@gmail.com (Birmingham Irish) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:02:04 GMT

A year ago I unveiled an ambitious 20-year vision of how our towns and cities will need to be linked in the coming decades, involving various modes of transport including Metro, rail, bus and high-tech vehicles. It envisages 150 miles of new Metro lines and calls to reopen long-closed railway stations, as well as pioneering Very Light Rail technology and driverless vehicles.

My plan captured the imagination, partly thanks to a Tube-style map which lays out just how all of these new networks would knit together. And right in the centre of the plan was Digbeth, where work has begun on one of the first steps in this 20-year ambition .

Of course, creating an ‘Underground’ map also clearly signalled my determination to build a transport network of the standard enjoyed by the capital for decades – with the funding to match. Then the pandemic struck.

So, what has been achieved since the plan was launched? Despite the many challenges of the last year, we have been getting on with the job. Work has continued apace, despite COVID 19.

First, in central Birmingham, the ‘Westside’ Metro extension from Centenary Square to Edgbaston village is set to open later this year. But I’m delighted that work has started in Digbeth, on the ‘Eastside’ line, which will take the Metro through to link with HS2 at the new Curzon Street station. This is a hugely important first step in my plan.

But it’s not just about Birmingham. Two of our largest projects are brand new stations in Wolverhampton and Coventry. Both are progressing fast and Wolverhampton will open in the Spring – along with a new link to the Metro network.

Elsewhere on the railways, we have made major progress on our plans to work with Government and our local Councils to reverse the Beeching cuts, and reopen long-closed stations. Planning permission has been secured for five new stations – including in South Birmingham.

This is just the start. We are about to bombard Grant Shapps and his team with plans for many more stations, including Tettenhall in Wolverhampton, three more in Coventry, at Binley, Coundon and Foleshill, and at the Fort and Castle Bromwich in North Birmingham .

The Metro section of my plan is also progressing at pace. Not long after becoming Mayor, I secured £250million of Government support to extend the Metro network. Looking back now, that early win indicated a shift in onus after years of underinvestment in the region. That money has underpinned the rapid expansion of the Metro, putting diggers in the ground.

Huge progress has also been made on the buses network, which remains the backbone of public transport here, with 267 million journeys a year compared to 50 million for rail and about 7 million on the Metro. Our bus fleet has been continually improved, with new vehicles and cutting edge technology. National Express’s Platinum buses boast comfier seats, USB points to charge phones, crystal-clear CCTV, bright LED interior lighting and improved sound proofing.

National Express, based in Mill Lane, Digbeth, has been a major player in improving local public transport. It has also announced a fourth consecutive annual fare freeze – a huge contribution to millions of families here at such a difficult time.

Then there is ‘Very Light Rail’, a pioneering concept that draws on design and component expertise from our auto industry to create a relatively low-cost streetcar system.

What the transport map doesn’t show are the numerous other schemes on the table to improve cycling, walking and healthier ways of getting around which will also play a part in revolutionising how people move about the conurbation.

We aren’t going to overturn 40 years underinvestment in the West Midlands in just four years, but we are moving forward at pace and are on target. Digbeth is at the heart of what we are doing .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

A Happy New Year and BIA service updates

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 14:46:37 GMT

Hello Birmingham, we wish a happy and healthy new year to you all.

In this month’s edition of our newsletter, we wanted to send a reminder to you that although we are still facing hard times, we will emerge from this together with the strength and love we have shown to each other in 2020.

As an organisation, we are here for you all just as much as last year, and in this article, we would like to let you know of our 2021 services which will allow this, despite the current difficulties our community is facing .

In March 2020, we launched our emergency helpline number (0121 647 5105) for those facing problems of all kinds caused by the pandemic. Your calls to this number over the past year have enabled us to help countless individuals with their unique circumstances. Therefore, we will be keeping this line open until we are all safe and sound once again. Our helpline is managed by our staff and is open from 9am until 8pm, 7 days a week.

Throughout 2020, we have also seen our hot meal and lunch bag delivery service grow in popularity as so many depend on us for meals each day. In 2021, we are continuing our hot meal delivery service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and will be accepting new orders through our helpline (0121 647 5105).

Throughout the second half of 2020, we were also operating a hot meal and lunch bag collection service alongside our deliveries. In 2021, we are continuing to offer this on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday between the hours of 11am and 12pm .

Please be assured that social distancing will continue to remain throughout by our staff and food will be distributed in an orderly and safe fashion in strict accordance to the Government guidelines .

Towards the end of 2020, we hoped that we would be able to open our main office to you all to assist with general enquiries as done in the past, but due to the announcement of our latest national lockdown, this unfortunately wasn’t the case. Therefore, our Digbeth office will remain closed to the public for all general enquiries, but we will arrange appointments for emergencies.

To book an emergency appointment, please call our helpline on 0121 647 5105 or if you require general assistance, please email info@birish.org.uk or call 0121 604 611. We will ensure that your call is directed to the correct department and someone will contact you as quickly as possible.

In addition to this, we would like to also include a small side note about our services. During 2020, we have been able to help so many people from the community who have called from our helpline with very unique enquiries such as requests for radios to keep loneliness at bay when self-isolating, through to referrals to food banks in the community.

We want to let you know that even if the services mentioned above do not directly solve an enquiry in mind from yourself or a loved one, we can still help through referrals in our database of contacts in our community, so please don’t hesitate to call us.

We have no doubt that there are still tough times ahead for us all in 2021, but by standing as one, having faith and showing strength and love, we will emerge stronger than ever before and celebrate once this battle is won.

Please stay safe and may God bless you all .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Stories of our Saints: St Brigid

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 14:45:10 GMT

The stories and traditions relating to St Brigid have been an incredibly important part of Irish culture and folklore for many generations. Taking place on February 1st, this day marks the beginning of Spring and celebrates new life, creativity and strong women.

With the dark, cold days we are currently facing, the celebrations of St Brigid's Day and the light it brings are needed now more than any other time we have known. This is why we, at the Association, wanted to share her story and traditions with you.

In the small Irish town of Faughart in AD 450, Brigid was born to a Pagan Chieftain and Christian. Brigid’s father named her after one of the most powerful goddesses of the pagan religion - the goddess of fire, whose manifestations were song, craftsmanship, and poetry, which was considered to be the flame of knowledge. Brigid spent her earlier life cooking, cleaning, washing and feeding the animals on her father’s farm .

She lived during the time of St. Patrick, was inspired by his preachings and therefore became a Christian. When Brigid turned eighteen, her father wanted her to find a husband but she had instead decided to give her life to God's work through taking care of poor, sick and elderly people.

Legend says that she prayed that her beauty would be taken away from her so no one would seek her hand in marriage. Her prayer was granted, she finally entered the convent where she received her veil from St. Macaille and made her vows to dedicate her life to God. Legend also says that Brigid regained her beauty after making her vows and that God made her more beautiful than ever. News of Brigid’s good works spread and soon many young girls from all over the country joined her

Brigid founded many convents all over Ireland; the most famous one being in Co. Kildare and it is said that this convent was built beside an oak tree where the town of Kildare now stands. Around 470 she also founded a double monastery, for nuns and monks, in Kildare. As Abbess of this foundation she wielded considerable power, but was a very wise and prudent superior. The Abbey of Kildare became one of the most prestigious monasteries in Ireland, and was famous throughout Christian Europe .

Since her death in 525 AD, time has seen many ways to honour St Brigid. In Ireland, an important tradition is the St Brigid's Day Procession. As she is said to walk the earth once again on the eve of her feast day, each member of the family leaves a piece of cloth outside for St. Brigid to bless before going to bed.

The head of the household would smother the fire and rake the ashes smooth. In the morning, the family look for some kind of mark on the ashes, a sign that St Brigid has passed that way during the night and the cloths are brought inside, and they are believed to now have powers of healing and protection. On the following day, the girls of the families carry the cloths through the village or neighbourhood, from house to house, where this representation of St Brigid is welcomed with great honour.

Today, we still widely celebrate the feast of St Brigid, but in a way that is a little different. Each year, we honour the saint by making, blessing and giving St Brigid's Day crosses, usually of straw or rushes. Many who visit Ireland during February 1st are very likely to notice families honouring the feast day, as these woven crosses are displayed in the windows and doorways of homes to keep fire, hunger and evil at bay.

As the practice is very simple, and can make great home-schooling and culture projects, why not make your own Brigid's Day cross this year? For those who would like to try, we have included a link below to craft materials and a video class, we hope you enjoy.

On behalf of everyone at Birmingham Irish Association, we would like to extend blessings this St Brigid's Day, from our family to yours. We hope that the light half of this year brings peace, joy and new beginnings to you all.

May the blessing of Saint Brigid be with you .

Links you may find useful:

Instructional video : Click here

Craft materials:

100 Green Pipe Cleaners: Click here
Crepe paper roll 180g: Click here
Stylecraft Knitting Yarn/Wool 100g Ball: Click here

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA Service Manager, Trudy McGroarty

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 14:39:41 GMT

Throughout the past year, our care assistance to the community has never been more crucial and many hundreds more have needed our help across the city, each in their own unique way.

As an organisation, we are proud to have offered tailored help to every single person reaching out to us, and we are certain that this could not have been possible without management from our wonderful Service Manager, Trudy McGroarty.

From organising our Christmas Toy Appeal, to keeping client preferences at the centre of everything we do, Trudy is always there for both clients and staff as a source of comfort and guidance.

H er constant support allows us to do everything possible to help the vast amount of people we now serve, but still with the warmth and kindness that our clients know and love.

Thank you so much for all of the incredible work you do for us Trudy, this makes a difference to all of our staff and every client we help on a daily basis.

Our next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Column by Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 14:38:32 GMT

Birmingham’s Irish community has a long and proud history of helping the city’s homeless. The roots of that generosity stretch right back to the height of migration of Irish people to Brum, when it was recognised that a chronic lack of accommodation meant there was a need to provide help – leading to the first seeds of a local welfare service.

With the support of St Anne’s parish church, Tabor House opened in 2017 and in doing so became Birmingham’s only permanent night shelter, a long way from the original single room in Moat Row where a small number of volunteers had offered help and support to Irish immigrants .

Since becoming Mayor, homelessness and rough sleeping have been one of my priorities, which is why I set up a taskforce soon after talking office and have championed Housing First, the pioneering scheme which shares many of the approaches seen at Tabor House.

In this column I want to tell you about the successes Housing First has seen in helping society’s least fortunate people.

First seen in Finland, Housing First works with councils, housing associations and support groups to help rough sleepers break the cycle of decline which has landed them on the streets.

Housing First is a Government-funded initiative of £9.6m over three years, which aims to help people with a long history of rough sleeping by providing a home and the wrap-around support individuals need to re-build their lives and stay in their accommodation.

In the West Midlands, individuals are also given a small budget to make their new homes their own thanks to pilot funding and money donated through the Change into Action scheme .

I’m proud to say that latest figures show that thanks to the scheme 326 individuals have been supported into a place they can now call home.

This is an important milestone for Housing First and proof that the scheme is having an impact. There is no doubt that this achievement has contributed to us reducing the number of rough sleepers across the region.

The need to help homeless people has been perhaps even greater during the coronavirus pandemic, and Tabor House, driven by the Irish Community, has once again led the way.

In 2020 the entire project moved temporarily to a hotel so it could continue to support guests while following Government guidelines on social distancing.

Then, to enable it to re-open, Tabor House was redesigned to follow new guidelines and ensure guests could continue to stay safe. Capacity was reduced to house eight people in separate bedrooms, and it changed its approach from being a night shelter where guests would leave during the day, to being permanently open for guests.

It now offers 24/7 accommodation for guests. The project has also secured a lease on a nearby building containing three bedrooms, so nobody was made homeless as a consequence of the changes.

The wonderful thing about Tabor House is not only does it give accommodation for a number of days or weeks, but during that time the residents will have support to rebuild their lives so they can go into permanent accommodation, an approach mirrored by the support offered by Housing First.

I think if the original parish priests and volunteers who set up that single room in Moat Row, Digbeth all those years ago could see the work being done today at Tabor House and by Housing First across our region they would not only approve, they would urge us to push on and try to help even more people.

That’s something I intend to do. Knowing the deep generosity of Birmingham’s Irish community, I know they will too .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We offer our support to those affected from 'mother and baby homes'

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 21:08:19 GMT

A judicial commission of investigation has published a long-awaited report into a network of 'mother and baby homes' that inflicted abuse and shame - with the complicity of wider society - for much of the twentieth century.

The five-year investigation into the homes – religious institutions for unmarried mothers and their children that doubled as orphanages and adoption agencies – chronicles deprivation, misogyny, stigma and in some cases shocking levels of infant mortality, adding up to a blistering indictment not just of the institutions but the wider culture of oppression that sustained them. Most of the homes were Catholic run but a small number were Protestant. The commission also investigated four state-run county homes.

Below is a message from Colm Brophy, T.D. Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, acknowledging the serious mistreatment made to mothers and children born into the institutions, and explaining how they will work to support those left with incredibly painful experiences and scars due to this.

To support those who have been affected in these difficult times and need support in our city, we have also included a contact link to our fellow organisation, icap. Please click here to view.

Dear Members of the Irish Community in Britain,

On 12 January, the Final Report of the Mother and Baby Homes Commission of Investigation was published. This Report acknowledges the serious mistreatment, profound pain, and suffering endured by the former residents of and children born into these institutions, laying bare the dominant role of the churches and a moral code that lacked compassion, and the regulatory failures of the Irish State.

It is a moment for Irish society to recognise a profound failure of empathy, understanding and basic humanity over a long period of our recent past. When single women and their children most needed care, support and protection, they were let down. Many felt they had no option but to leave Ireland to try and build better lives for themselves and their families, most of whom travelled to Britain.

The State Apology given by the Taoiseach rightly stated that every woman and child who was in an institution is blameless, and deserved so much better than the treatment they received. The lack of respect for their fundamental dignity and rights as mothers and children who spent time in these institutions is humbly acknowledged and deeply regretted. The State had a duty of care to protect its citizens, and failed to do so.

The Government now plans to respond to the recommendations of the Report, and ensure that former residents and children of these institutions are provided with a range of supports. I am committed to working with the Irish Community in Britain to ensure that this response best meets the needs of survivors of Mother and Baby Homes in Britain. This work will take a survivor centred approach, based on engagement with former residents and their representative groups – including the survivor diaspora.

Supporting survivors abroad is prioritised in the new Diaspora Strategy, and my Department will also work to provide financial support through the Emigrant Support Programmes. The 2021 Programme (which will open for applications on 20 January) is very keen to support initiatives that heal our relationships with emigrants who left Ireland in crisis.

This is a difficult time for women and children who survived the Mother and Baby Homes, and for the wider community of survivors and their families. It is also a challenging time for those of you who support and advocate for the needs of the survivor community. I deeply appreciate those efforts to assist and advise those affected by this shameful period in our history and I am committed to working with you as we undertake a journey towards healing.

With best wishes,

Colm Brophy T.D. Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora

Related useful links:

icap announcement - Click here
Government report - Click here
State Apology - Click here
2021 Programme - Click here

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

2020: A thank you and updates

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 18:42:12 GMT

You may already know, but since March, we have been adapting our services to best suit our lovely clients and the wider community, and what a journey we have been on together. First of all, we would like to extend an unbelievably colossal thanks to everyone who has helped us, however small.

Over the last few weeks we have been counting just how many people that, through the kindness of the community, our funders and fellow organisation, we have helped this year. It’s safe to say we have never been prouder to be part in the heart of our Birmingham Irish community.

When the circumstances came upon us all in March, our first response was to open an emergency helpline, so every single person who needed urgent help were listened to and given tailored support. So far, our helpline has been manned every single day since March, from 8am to 8pm by our staff and has so far received over 5,500 calls.

Very soon after our helpline opened, we realised that shortages and stockpiling in supermarkets meant that our most vulnerable had no way at all of gaining basic essentials, which was impacting severely on their mental and physical health. We knew we had to help and since then, our Club Together campaign with our incredible friends, the Warwickshire GAA and the local community has allowed us to distribute over 2,920 grocery parcels to the most vulnerable in our community.

As the situation began to evolve in early summer, calls from our helpline enabled us to understand that there was a real need for a hot meal delivery service in the community, as relatives couldn’t provide care in two places at once. Therefore, in early May, we launched our hot meal delivery service which so far has provided over 2,612 nutritious hot meals to families who need it most.

We have also been giving out lunch bags alongside our meals, and to date we have distributed 2,112 of them. We still continue to operate the meal and lunch service on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday and deliver around 360 hot meals per week all across the city.

In June, we began to say hello again to our old clients as our main services reopened, and as a team, our staff worked together to explore additional services to give further aid to our community. From these services, we have strengthened the digital skills of 17 seniors in our community, who were unable to communicate using technology in the first lockdown.

News of the furlough scheme ending then reached us, and we knew just how much devastation it would leave in its wake. With the Christmas season soon approaching, we knew there would be so many children left with no presents under the tree, therefore, we immediately launched our Christmas Toy Appeal.

It’s safe to say that the community response for our appeal soared higher than we thought possible, and with support through new toys and donations through our Virgin Money Giving Page, we were overwhelmed and the sheer generosity took our breath away. To store all of the donations we required a storage facility and to date, we have distributed gifts to over 500 families throughout our city, which parents can then wrap in time for Christmas and leave under the tree.

This time last year, we would never have fathomed our journey together since March. The sheer amount of people we have helped would not be possible without the incredible generosity of our wonderful funders, the kindness of our beloved Birmingham Irish community and the magnificent efforts and strength of our fellow organisations. We would like to extend the most enormous thank you to the phenomenal people listed below, as well as every single person who has donated through our Virgin Money Giving page or a new toy to us.

We wish you all the healthiest, happiest Christmas and as we continue, the strength and kindness shown throughout this year will be paramount in getting through this difficult time. Faith is our key to finish together, and we will celebrate in true Irish style as a community once this battle is won. May God bless you all.

National Lottery Awards for all

Birmingham City Council

Birmingham Irish Society

Cloth Makers Fund

Heart of England Doing Things Differently

Irish Government Emigrant Support Programme

National Lottery Community Fund

Communitas

Irish Youth Foundation

Community-Led Organisations Recovery Scheme (CCLORS)

Archbishop Illesley

Charities Aid Foundation

BBC Children in Need

NHS

TLC Lottery

M. Lambe Construction Limited

Court Collaboration

NNS Ladywood Small Grant Scheme

Tesco Bags of Help Scheme

J Murphy and Sons

Friel Homes Ltd

Lilies Funeral Directors

St Brendan's GAA Club

Sean McDermotts GAA Club

Erin Go Bragh GAA Club

John Mitchels GAA

No5 Barristers' Chambers

Milnes Walker Court Sheltered Housing Scheme

Guillemard Court Housing Scheme of Housing 21

Gillian and all her colleagues at Tesco Monkspath, Solihull

Kiely Brothers Limited

Mick O’Brien and family

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Christmas Toy Appeal and Memories of Home Hampers

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 18:42:04 GMT

It's safe to say that life has been turned completely upside down for so many individuals throughout our city of Birmingham. Here at the Association, we wanted to make sure that Christmas shines that little bit brighter for them.

When news reached us in September that the furlough scheme was to end for those in our community, we started our new toy collection for children aged up to 16, as we knew just how colossal the impact would be for families in our community this year and how many children may not have any gifts under the Christmas tree.

Since then, there have been so many wonderful organisations, companies and members of the community who have generously donated new toys for us to distribute. So far we have helped over 500 families to give that extra magic to their children this Christmas Day.

Due to the kindness of the Irish Embassy in London, we have also been able to create and distribute some wonderful hampers for those in the Irish diaspora of Birmingham, Sandwell and Coventry. This will enable them to experience the taste and smells of Ireland whilst keeping safe at home.

Each hamper holds a prayer written especially for the festive period for those missing Ireland, an Irish turf candle, a CD with traditional Irish songs and festive tunes recorded for us by the Children of Our Lady’s School choir as well as a selection of our best-selling Irish food and drink products. Together with the Coventry and Sandwell Irish Societies, we have distributed 210 hampers to homes across Birmingham, Sandwell and Coventry.

With everything that has happened this year, we know that Christmas will not be the same for more of us in our city than ever. Despite this, we feel that as a community, we have become united to care for each other in so many different ways, and make Christmas that little bit brighter for those who need it most.

As an organisation, we would like to extend monumental thanks to everyone who has helped us this year, we wish you health and happiness over this festive season and we look forward to seeing you all in the New Year .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Guest column by Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 18:41:53 GMT

While Birmingham’s Irish community has its spiritual home in Digbeth, I know that the BIA’s members live all across the Second City and beyond into the wider West Midlands.

At this time of year, we are usually thinking about paying a visit to loved ones for Christmas. While the effects of coronavirus may make this a different experience this year, it’s so important that Brum has a world-class transport system to help us get about now and in the future.

In my last column, I wrote about how the Metro extension to Digbeth will bring new opportunities to the community there. This month I want tell you about some of the other transport investments we are making – particularly on buses - and efforts to make travelling around the city safer .

For decades, our region’s transport was massively underinvested in, compared to other places. When I became the first elected Mayor of the West Midlands, I committed to reverse that decline and work to get our fair share of transport investment.

Transport isn’t just about getting around – it is about providing people with the ability to access the good jobs and opportunities that are there, and that is even more crucial than ever now, as we plot our way out of the coronavirus pandemic and its economic impact.

Plus, of course, high-quality public transport attracts businesses to invest nearby. As work begins in Digbeth on the Metro, we will see that new transport investment at work. I was delighted that Chancellor Rishi Sunak has now committed to a new five-year transport settlement which could be worth as much as £800million to support the next stages of our plan here.

Alongside our ambitions on the Metro and railways, buses are crucial to getting around the city – after all, the vast majority of public transport journeys are made by bus here. I want to outline three ways that we are improving the experience of bus passengers .

First of all, bus users will benefit from the fourth year of a fares freeze from National Express. This means that throughout my time as Mayor, fares from our main provider have been frozen, in contrast with the rises of the past. This is really important as before COVID-19 hit the fares freeze was helping drive the increase in bus use.

Secondly, we want to make bus journeys more comfortable and safer. That’s why Birmingham and the West Midlands is going to lead the country with tough new byelaws to tackle anti-social behaviour on buses.

These new rules will mean people who spoil the journey of others through smoking, vaping, drunk and disorderly behaviour, playing loud music, vandalism, threatening and offensive behaviour or obstructing people can face being thrown off the bus and being fined.

The rules have existed on trams and trains but now they are being extended to buses. I believe people have the right to a safe, pleasant journey and this will help tackle the small number of people who don’t want you to.

Finally, we need to ensure that the vehicles themselves are up-to-date. That’s why investment in the region’s fleet is also being stepped up with the rollout of “platinum” buses and now electric buses – thanks to National Express’ commitment to never buy another diesel bus for use in the West Midlands.

This is a massive commitment, which will see our main service provider change much of the way it operates to adapt to the new greener vehicles. For example, bus drivers have to be specially trained to drive electric buses. The vehicles behave completely differently to diesel-driven buses, and drivers have to drive to preserve the charge for as long as possible and extend the range. Engineers have been trained in a whole new kind of maintenance too.

This year has been incredibly challenging for us all. For much of 2020 we have been unable to get out and about, due to lockdowns and social distancing. As Christmas approaches, the news that COVID vaccines are now being given in the UK has helped bring us all a little festive cheer and a sense of hope that normality will return.

I’m happy to say that, as we look forward to 2021, we are unwrapping lots of improvements to create a world-class transport system for Birmingham and the West Midlands – so we can all enjoy the freedom of travelling again soon .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

The Birmingham Irish Christmas Toy Appeal (update)

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 12:21:56 GMT

As many of you will know from prior updates that over the last few months, we have been working hard to collect as many new toys as possible for our Christmas Toy Appeal campaign , so that every family in our city who have been affected financially by the pandemic can give their children a new toy to open on Christmas Day.

Through this campaign, our initial aim was to care for families most in need of our help this Christmas and to make the big day that little bit brighter for their little ones. Since then, the project has grown larger than we ever thought possible.

From community members to fellow organisations, funders to large companies such as Tesco, the response to our appeal has been utterly overwhelming and we would like to extend a colossal thank you to each and every person.

Through us, you have reached out to make Christmas that little more special for someone else and we have never felt more lucky and proud to be a part of the incredible and selfless community that is Birmingham.

At this moment, our staff are preparing the gifts in our storage facility to deliver to families for the first week of December, but keep a look out in next months' newsletter as we will be releasing just how many families we have been able to help, together, through the Christmas Toy Appeal

If you would like to make a monetary donation to our Christmas toy fund, please click here to visit our Virgin Money Giving page.

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Mick O’ Brien’s magnificent gesture for our Toy Appeal

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 12:21:48 GMT

Many of you may already be aware of our Christmas Toy Appeal and the utterly astounding response we have had from the community for this since September.

This month, we would like to share how one of our most dedicated supporters and dear friend of the organisation, Mick O’ Brien, completed a sponsored challenge to support the appeal in giving as many families as possible a gift for their child on Christmas Day.

Between 7th and the 12th November, this wonderful man walked along all of the major canals in Birmingham, Warwickshire and the Black Country, thus clocking up over 80 miles in total and all to raise awareness of our appeal. We can't even begin to thank Mick enough for going out of his way to plan and complete this incredible challenge, as donations have poured in as a result. We can safely say that he is an absolute hero.

At the moment, our staff here at the Birmingham Irish Association are preparing the delivery of gifts from the Appeal to parents, but keep a look out in next months' newsletter to find out just how many families we have been able to help through the campaign this Christmas.

You can still donate here >

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Column by Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 12:21:30 GMT

Digbeth is one of the most vibrant parts of Birmingham.
Once a key part of the city’s industrial heart, Digbeth’s old factories have been transformed in recent years. Now, the area is a cultural and creative hub.

Add this cultural mix to Digbeth’s deep Irish roots and you have an area which is renowned not only for colour and energy but community and heritage too.

I often urge people to visit the cultural landmarks of the West Midlands, to fully understand the rich diversity of our region, and places like Digbeth, Bournville and the Jewellery Quarter are always high on the list.

Now, with the Metro extension going ahead to link the city centre with Digbeth, more and more people will be able to sample its delights .

Improving our region’s transport links is massively important as we make every effort to bring the benefits of economic development to every part of our region. Better transport links are key to bringing the investment in jobs and new homes that we need.

The extension of the Metro is a crucial part of the plan for cleaner and greener transport.

I believe the Metro Will help drive the regeneration of the Digbeth community, changes that have been spearheaded by cultural sites such as the Custard Factory. Stephen Knight, creator of the Peaky Blinders, is planning a film studio, complete with a cobbled street and media village in Digbeth too. The plans for the site of the former Irish Centre, will bring real change too.

Now the Metro will also bring change - and people! I was delighted to secure £160 million from the Government for the Eastside Metro extension, which will create a 1.7km track from the city centre right into the heart of Digbeth. The scheme includes four additional West Midlands Metro stops, serving the east of Birmingham City Centre.

Crucially, the new extension will link the Metro network to HS2, which means much of the wider region - places like Wolverhampton, Dudley and Sandwell - will all be able to access the new High Speed rail service.

But it will also bring real benefits to Digbeth and its people. First of all, of course, there is the improvement in travel and connectivity that inevitably comes with such a major transport investment .

It will mean more people using the Metro in this area for day-to-day travel, resulting in journey time savings and reduced congestion.

It will provide new and improved public transport links for the East of Birmingham City Centre and Digbeth, connecting local people to job and education opportunities.

And it will bring people into Digbeth, to enjoy its Irish heritage and cultural offering, boosting business and encouraging new businesses to relocate there.

Everyone was saddened to see the this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade cancelled because of the pandemic, as it is by far one of the biggest dates on the region’s calendar. The new Metro link will make it even easier for crowds to join the celebrations, from right across the region.

The Eastside extension is just part of the huge transport plan for the region that I unveiled last year. On the Metro alone, I want to build over 150 miles of new lines and around 380 new stops.

By linking the Metro network to HS2, the Digbeth line is a crucial first step in this exciting transport journey for our region.

From their days powering the ‘Workshop of the World’, to their place creating our city’s cultural quarter, the industry and values of Digbeth people have always driven Birmingham forward. With the arrival of the Metro, it will be able to share their heritage and warmth with even more people .

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

46th Anniversary of the Birmingham Pub Bombings

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 11:32:34 GMT

This year marks the 46th Anniversary of the Birmingham Pub Bombings. For the past 2 years the community has gathered beneath the trees memorial on Grand Central Plaza to remember those who lost their lives on that evening in 1974.

Sadly, this year due to the ongoing situation with COVID-19 it will not be possible to hold a ceremony that would allow us to pay our respects in a fitting manner and to remember the tragedy that struck the city that evening.

The Misneach committee are currently working on a short video that will be released at 8.17pm on the 21st November through various social media channels and outlets.

Although it will not replace the beautiful ceremony we had planned, we hope it will be a fitting tribute to the many people whose lives were changed forever.

Further information will be released shortly so please keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for more details .

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The Birmingham Irish Association's Toy Appeal (update)

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 11:26:55 GMT

As many of you will know, we have been extending our services to give specialised care for our community throughout the pandemic. We know that these difficult times are more a marathon than a sprint, and we want to be there for all of you, in every step of the way.

Due to the current uncertainties, many families in our city are experiencing financial worries, and especially about Christmas time. This is why we set up a new appeal in September to collect new toys for children who may not have presents under the tree this year to open. Since the launch, there has been an extraordinary response and we would like to extend a massive thanks to every single person who has donated so far, you are all absolute stars.

At this point, we also need help to find those who would like to receive these presents for their children at Christmas. If you know a family who would benefit from our appeal, we would love you to get in touch with us by calling Trudy on 07970 671 462 or by dropping her an email through trudy@birish.org.uk. Please include how many children there are in the family, their ages, whether they are boys or girls and any particular gifts they might like.

We are also collecting donations and new toys until the end of November, to ensure delivery on the first week of December and peace of mind for parents. If you would like to give a new toy, that would be wonderful. Please get in touch with Trudy through the above contact details, or pop into us at St Anne's Parish Church on Alcester Street (from Mon-Fri, 10am – 3pm). If you would prefer to make a monetary donation to our Christmas toy fund, please click the link below to our Virgin Money Giving page.

Any donation given is so very greatly appreciated as it will help to make Christmas that bit more brighter for our little ones this year. If you are able to share this post let friends and family know about our appeal, we would be really grateful as we can gather and deliver as many toys as possible. Thank you so much.

Donate Here >

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Children’s Dementia Zoom Support Sessions (update)

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 11:25:47 GMT

As an organisation, we know first-hand just how difficult it can be when a loved one is living with dementia, but these circumstances can be especially tough on children.

This is why, as an organisation, we want to be a rock for little ones experiencing this confusing period with their families, by helping them to understand and giving them space to talk through any worries or share their feelings, both with staff and other children in a similar situation.

With the help of the lovely people at BBC Children in Need, we are providing this through our interactive Zoom support sessions.

If you know of any children or families who would benefit from this service, we would love you to get in touch with us.

For more information and to pass on details, please call Paulene, our Children’s Support Worker, on 07495 711 696 or email paulene@birish.org.uk .

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Our Tablet Entertainment & Library Service (update)

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 11:18:59 GMT

As you many already know, we at Birmingham Irish have extended many of our services this year in order to reach as many people as possible and to give a well-needed boost to our community, both physically and mentally.

With the help of our funders at the Department of Foreign affairs ESP, The Big Lottery and Birmingham City Council we have been able to launch and continually operate our incredibly popular tablet entertainment library service this year to help so many clients to battle loneliness and boredom whilst self-isolating.

To date, we have lent 80 iPads filled with vibrant entertainment content such as movies, TVs, apps and games to vulnerable people throughout our city and this service will be there for our clients and community as long as needed.

If you know someone who is self-isolating and would benefit from our tablet entertainment library service, please give us a call on 0121 647 5105.

One client said;

“Once someone from Birmingham Irish Association showed me how to use the tablet, it got easier to use and I feel so much more in touch with the outside world as a result of this. I’m delighted to have been offered it and thank you so much to you all.”

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Column by Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 11:18:15 GMT

This month, we would like to share a new column with you all, written by the Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street. To read this first piece in full, please see below.

I was delighted to be asked to write a regular column for the Birmingham Irish Association Newsletter – but it left me with a bit of a conundrum. In a year of so many challenges, and with so much going on in Digbeth and the Irish Quarter, what should I write my first contribution about?

2020 has seen all communities across our region face the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and the Irish community has been among the most active in supporting people. Digbeth is one of the most exciting and dynamic places in the city, attracting millions of pounds of investment. It was recently declared the top area in Birmingham for residential property investment.

So, there is much to report. However, I thought I would concentrate my first column on the important role the Birmingham Irish Association (BIA) plays in local life, and how our Irish community continues to play a big role in shaping the city, leading the way in social support and sharing its views on the changes we are seeing .

I have often said that Birmingham is a place where you can see the entire world in a day. This city is more diverse than anywhere else in the UK and the Irish community is a vital part of that cultural diversity. America has the Boston Irish. We have the bostin’ Irish!

That community still embraces and celebrates Irish traditions and Irish family values. Our city has Gaelic football teams and a vibrant Irish dancing scene. There are places you can learn Irish instruments and there's a great music scene, which I am certain will spring back into life once the challenges of coronavirus are passed .

And at the heart of that community is the Birmingham Irish Association, based at its hub in Digbeth. Around 90% of its work is providing support for the elders and vulnerable in the community, something which has become more important than ever this year.

A dedicated team of BIA volunteers reach out far beyond Digbeth to Erdington, Cotteridge, Harborne, South Yardley, Sheldon, Hall Green, Brandwood, Shirley, Edgbaston, Acocks Green, Kingstanding, Handsworth, Maypole and Kings Norton.

The Association is also involved in promoting Irish culture and helps arrange the annual St Patrick’s Day parade, said to be the third largest in the world. I was as disappointed as everyone else to see it postponed this year – particularly as the theme was to be ‘The Irish Quarter’ – but it will be back, bigger and better than ever.

But perhaps the most important role played by the BIA is the voice it gives local people in an ever-growing, ever changing city.

Part of my role as West Midlands Mayor is to ensure our region wins the investment needed to drive growth, generate jobs and create prosperity. Money is pouring into the east side of the city centre. Digbeth is well-known for its cluster of creative industries and, when Peaky Blinders creator Stephen Knight’s plans come to fruition, it will soon have a film studio, complete with a cobbled street and media village.

I was delighted to secure a further £160 million from the Government for the Eastside Metro extension, a 1.7km track running from the city centre to Digbeth, will bring with it huge benefits.

And the ongoing regeneration of the area, not least the plans on the site of the former Irish Centre, is seeing real change in Digbeth. With all this investment, the BIA provides a vital focal point for the Irish community to have their say on what is happening, talking to developers to protect the character of the Irish Quarter.

Birmingham is lucky to have its Irish Quarter – and the Irish community is lucky to have the BIA .

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Tribute to our late friend Mark Tomlinson : Please save the dates!

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 15:58:49 GMT

Earlier this year, we at Birmingham Irish lost a very beloved friend of ours, local musician Mark Tomlinson.

A truly remarkable person who never failed to brighten up a room, Mark was well known on the Irish music scene in our city and was rarely ever seen without his beloved Bodhran.

To remember his anniversary and honour his memory, a wonderful tribute will take place over the weekend of the 27th and 28th of March 2021, with a mass at Holy Souls Parish Church, a Bodhran Master Class at St Anne's Parish Hall and a series of spectacular performances from musicians both local to Birmingham and from Ireland.

All of these events will be subject to future restraints of the pandemic, however we would love for as many people to attend as possible, and it would mean so much to the family and friends of Mark, and also to us, if you could note this date in the calendar to keep it free.

Thank you so much!

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

Meet our team! BIA Dementia Centre Manager, Sinead McTernan

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 15:58:40 GMT

At Birmingham Irish, we want to be sure that every single client is cared for in a supportive and warm environment that revolves completely around their physical and mental wellbeing. Without wonderful staff such as our Dementia Centre Manager of St. Anne's, Sinead McTernan, we know for a fact that this wouldn't be at all possible.

Our Sinead has been with us for many years now and knows to a tee what makes our lovely clients at St Anne's comfortable and happy.

This kind of knowledge is crucial for our sessions, as it allows specialised tailoring for groups and not only ensures that our clients get excited for our sessions and leave with a little boost, but also that their families feel relieved, safe in the knowledge that we are taking excellent care of their loved one.

Throughout the pandemic, and presently alongside our dementia centre sessions, Sinead has also taken on the role of co-ordinating our hot meal delivery services, and with over 100 meals delivered a week to date, we think she is doing an absolutely sterling job.

Thank you Sinead for the incredible work that you do, you make such a wonderful difference to our clients, both old and new.

Our next edition of our newsletter will feature another fantastic staff member from our organisation, so make sure to stay tuned!

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Set aside time to unwind with the ICC Culture Hotline service

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 15:58:19 GMT

Throughout this year, our ever-changing circumstances have allowed us to enjoy culture from the comfort of our own homes more than ever.

However, these online resources may not be an option at all for those who do not have the technology needed to appreciate them. That's why our brilliant friends at the ICC in London launched a fantastic platform back in May, their Culture Hotline.

This fantastic service allows any person from across the United Kingdom to ring in via telephone or join online to listen to series of songs, poetry, storytelling and music to combat isolation, loneliness and boredom.

As their first series back in May was a tremendous success, they are now launching a stunning new series for Autumn 2020, featuring a talented array of musicians.

For more information, please see the session dates and instructions below.

We hope to meet you there!

Session Dates:

30th September Justine Gormley (Piano)

14th October Ellen Mahwinney (Soprano)

28th October Tara Viscardi (Harp)

11th November Mollie Wrafter (Violin)

25th November Adam Heron (Piano)

9th December Amy Gillen (Flute)

16th December Conall O’Neill (Bass)

Instructions:

To listen in on the phone all you need to do is call one of our numbers below.
If you have a contract with unlimited minutes please dial: 020 3443 9152 or +44 20 3443 9152 from abroad.
If you are on Pay As You Go or have limited minutes please feel free to dial our toll-free number: 0800 031 5925
You will be prompted to enter the following Conference ID: 135 144 590#

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A Tribute to John Hume, the Nobel Peace Laureate

Sat, 22 Aug 2020 15:47:04 GMT

When the news of John Hume’s passing reached us, as an organisation, we were, and still are, so very saddened.

An inspirational leader who pioneered for a peaceful end to violence of the Troubles, Mr Hume was truly one of kind and we were so very lucky to live amongst such a person in our lifetime. Due to his being there for Ireland and creating a light of hope in the most difficult of times, he is now known far and wide as the architect of the 1998 Belfast Agreement.

Ireland's current SDLP leader, Colum Eastwood, described him as Ireland's "most significant and consequential political party leader" of the 20th century. It is understood that Mr Hume's death was not related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

We would like to express our deepest condolences to Mr Hume's family, and we hope they can find comfort in the legacy he has left behind.

The link below holds a tribute message released by President Michael D. Higgins released on the morning of his passing.

Read President Michael D. Higgins statement here

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‘Lights Will Guide You Home’ A commemoration service in honour of Margaret Keane

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 11:06:17 GMT

“Meitheal”, the Irish word for community, encapsulates exactly how Irish groups have rallied around the family of Margaret Keane in support following a refusal of a church court in Coventry to allow an Irish only inscription on her grave of “In our hearts forever”

Recently, our good friends at Coventry Irish held an online concert in her honour, packed full of Irish dance, music, songs and poetry and headlined by none other than Dubliners legend Seán Cannon. This incredible project raised widespread awareness and attracted over 12,000 views online.

To mark the second anniversary of the Margaret's passing on 29th July, we and our good friends at the Coventry Irish Association, held ' Lights Will Guide You Home ', a cross-community commemoration last week. The service was streamed live on Facebook from St Giles Church in Exhall, with green lights and messages of support shining onto the building throughout, many being in the Irish language.

This was followed by the reading of a stunning poem written by Alex Johnson explaining the sheer beauty and love for the Irish language. The piece was translated into Irish by our very own trustee and fluent Irish speaker, Terri Lynk, and read by Birmingham born Dr Angela Moran (presenter of BBC's Birmingham Irish I Am documentary), with an English translation to follow. A link showing full footage of the commemoration is below .

As an organisation, we are so incredibly passionate about supporting the Keane family and their legal battle, therefore we want to ensure that we do everything in our power to help them.

This is why our very own trustee and solicitor at Irwin Mitchell, Caroline Brogan, is currently representing the family in their legal case to overturn the church court’s decision. The legal team, which includes high profile human rights barristers, Caoilfhionn Gallagher QC and Mary-Rachel McCabe of Doughty St Chambers, are all acting on a free of charge basis.

Caroline explained: “The family completed a straightforward form to have a standard gravestone for their mother, with a GAA cross and “In ár gcroíthe go deo”. The Reverend has confirmed that no-one at parish council level had an issue with the Irish language, but the matter was referred up to a church court as they thought that there was a potential health and safety issue relating to the GAA cross (which was initially going to protrude slightly). The application came before the Chancellor of the Diocese of Coventry, HHJ Stephen Eyre QC.

A compromise was reached about the cross (the cross can be included but it is not to protrude). However, the Chancellor refused the Irish only inscription. The refusal and the reasons given for that refusal have caused the family deep hurt, particularly as other gravestones in the same churchyard have Welsh inscriptions, without translation. A legal application has been made to the Arches of Canterbury to seek permission to appeal the decision”.

Supporting Links:

Full footage of 'Lights Will Guide You Home' - Click here >

Coventry Telegraph coverage of commemoration - Click here >

Public Statement from St Giles Church - Click here >

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BIA COVID-safe risk assessment has been certified

Sat, 01 Aug 2020 14:21:56 GMT

During lockdown the staff at Birmingham Irish Association have been working hard to make our premises Covid-19 secure in order to welcome back clients. See details of our reopening here >

As part of this process we have undertaken a full Risk Assessment of all our premises and activities in order that you can visit us safe in the knowledge that your welfare, and that of our staff, is paramount.

When you visit our premises you will be asked to comply with the hygiene and safety measures we have put in place for your protection and comfort.

We are confident that the changes we have made will not adversely affect your experience when you visit us, and we will still be offering the same warm welcome, albeit a socially distanced one. A copy of our risk assessment and Covid secure certificate can be viewed and/or downloaded below .

Staying Covid-19 secure certificate (PDF file) >

Our risk assessment document (PDF file) >

Please Note: Request these documents in other formats by contacting us.

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Extension of our tablet entertainment library service

Sat, 18 Jul 2020 10:02:05 GMT

Even though lockdown has eased for many across the city and nationwide, many vulnerable people are still shielding to keep safe.

We understand just how hard this can be, especially as we have already spent an incredible amount of weeks inside and tire of the usual non-routine that quarantine brings. This is why we will be extending our tablet entertainment library service.

This adapted service allows us to download a wealth of media entertainment in the form of film, TV, magazines, ebooks, games and other apps to tablets (complete with data plans) and lend to those who are shielding for a certain period of time on a rotational basis.

We hope that this will boost wellbeing and joy for those who are still stuck at home, and help to eliminate the inevitable loneliness and boredom that lockdown brings.

If you know of someone who is feeling isolated whilst shielding and who would benefit from this service, please let us know by calling 0121 457 5105 and we can add them to our lending list.

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Enormous thanks and well wishes to Ruaidhri Dowling on his new chapter

Sat, 18 Jul 2020 10:01:54 GMT

As an organisation, we would like to extend infinite thanks and well wishes to Ruaidhri Dowling, First Secretary of Community and Cultural Affairs at the Irish Embassy in London.

In August 2020, he will be relocating to become Ireland’s ambassador to Croatia.

From presidential visits to passport applications, Ruaidhri has been with us from the very beginning and provided us with unlimited and incredible support in every aspect of our organisation.

We have and always will consider him to be a dear friend here of staff, clients and the Irish community in the city.

We wish you every happiness Ruaidhri, for the future and in this next exciting chapter of your career .

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Infinite thanks to our incredible supporters and friends during lockdown

Sat, 18 Jul 2020 10:01:46 GMT

Whilst emerging from lockdown and into a new kind of normal, we have been taking some time to look back on how far we have come over the last few months. Below are some of the statistics representing the quantity of those we have helped since lockdown began.

482 hot food deliveries
1,531 food parcels
429 helpline calls

Without the help of the public, our incredibly generous friends at Warwickshire GAA and the amazing people at the organisations listed below, we would not have been able to reach out across the city to the sheer breadth of people who have so desperately needed us physically and mentally in these difficult times.

Some of our donors/supporters included:

Big Lottery
Awards for All
National Lottery Community Fund
Birmingham City Council
Irish Youth Foundation
Heart of England Community Foundation
Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme
BBC Children in Need
Clothworkers Foundation
The Ireland Funds Great Britain

We can’t even begin to explain the difference in wellbeing that these services provide for many in the community, especially those who visit us regularly and for whom the social interactions and developments are their sole opportunities to do so. You have enabled us to be there for and fulfill our community through primary care more than we ever have before, and for that we are so infinitely grateful.

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update