Leitrim and Cyprus Celebrate New Partnership Through EU Presidency Pairing Visit
Day One: Young People at the Heart of European Connections
Pupils from St Aidan's National School and Scoil Mhic Diarmada, together with Her Excellency Sarah Hamilton, Mr Alexandros Petrou and representatives of Leitrim County Council, at Dromahair Library during the Leitrim-Cyprus pairing visit.
Dromahair Library Welcomes Cyprus Delegation
Leitrim County Council was delighted to welcome representatives from Cyprus to County Leitrim on 8th and 9th October as part of a special pairing initiative during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Guests were welcomed to Dromahair Library by Mary Bohan, Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, who extended a warm Leitrim welcome to Her Excellency Sarah Hamilton, Ambassador of Ireland to Cyprus, and Mr Alexandros Petrou, representing the Embassy of Cyprus to Ireland.
In her opening address, the Cathaoirleach spoke about the importance of building connections between communities across Europe, highlighting the strong sense of culture, heritage and community shared by both Leitrim and Cyprus.
A highlight of the morning was the participation of pupils from St Aidan's National School, Ballaghameehan, and Scoil Mhic Diarmada, Kiltyclogher, who presented artwork and projects exploring the theme of Europe, while also showcasing their musical talents. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for young people to engage with the visiting delegation and celebrate the values of friendship, cooperation and cultural exchange that underpin the European Union.
Students showcased artwork and projects exploring the theme of Europe during the welcome event at Dromahair Library.
The programme also included a visit to St Clare's Comprehensive School, Manorhamilton, where Transition Year students participating in European Studies took part in a youth engagement session entitled My EU Idea for 2035. Students had the opportunity to engage directly with Her Excellency Sarah Hamilton and Mr Alexandros Petrou through presentations and a question-and-answer session on diplomacy, careers and EU citizenship.
Day Two: Exploring Leitrim's Creative and Cultural Heritage
Helena Golden, "The Willow Woman", with members of the Cyprus delegation, community representatives and Leitrim County Council staff during a willow basket-making workshop.
Traditional Willow Basket Making with Helena Golden, "The Willow Woman"
The second day of the visit showcased Leitrim's rich cultural heritage and creative traditions. At The Dock Arts Centre in Carrick-on-Shannon, delegates participated in a willow basket-making workshop led by Helena Golden, better known as "The Willow Woman."
A Leitrim-based basket maker, willow weaving teacher and facilitator, Helena shared the traditions, skills and stories of Irish basketmaking with the group. Delegates experienced the traditional craft of willow weaving first-hand, learning about the skill, artistry and heritage behind basket making while creating their own pieces under Helena's guidance.
“The Willow Woman”, with members of the Cyprus delegation during a willow basket-making workshop at The Dock Arts Centre.
The delegation also enjoyed a guided tour of The Dock's current exhibition, providing an opportunity to experience the vibrant visual arts and creative talent that contribute to Leitrim's reputation as a centre for arts and culture.
Building Lasting Relationships
Reception in the Council Chamber
The visit concluded with a reception in the Council Chamber at Áras an Chontae, Carrick-on-Shannon, where guests reflected on the success of the two-day programme and the strong connections developed between Leitrim and Cyprus.
To mark the occasion, Her Excellency Sarah Hamilton and Mr Alexandros Petrou were presented with a print of the bridge in Carrick-on-Shannon by local artist Emma Loughlin as a memento of their visit.
Representatives from Leitrim County Council with Her Excellency Sarah Hamilton and Mr Alexandros Petrou in the Council Chamber.