Social Inclusion Week officially begins today, with events planned across the county for the next week.

There are a whole range of events to attend, such as the launch of training initiative on intercultural issues on Monday, an evening of entertainment with Majella O’Donnell on Tuesday at An Grianan Theatre, special storytelling events, English conversation workshops, and much more.

This annual programme of events aims to highlight the very positive work being done not only by Donegal County Council but also by the other statutory and community organisations operating in Donegal to raise awareness of social inclusion related issues in the county.

This year’s programme was officially launched by Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry McMonagle in the Letterkenny Public Services Centre on Tuesday 3 October at 12.30pm.

Social Inclusion Week also coincides with World Mental Health week and to mark this, Peter Walker HSE spoke about the ‘Connecting for Life Donegal’ conference that is taking place in Ionad Naomh Padraig, Dobhar, on Friday October 6.

“The programme of events also provides an occasion to increase our awareness and understanding of inclusion and diversity in Donegal. I wish every success to the week of events and would urge everyone to take part in the celebrations and activities,” Cllr Gerry McMonagle, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council says.

The conference is a joint initiative with the HSE and will see a number of guest speakers, including former Donegal Footballer Eamon McGee who will share his own experience with mental health issues.

“Social Inclusion is about creating a fair and inclusive society,” says Seamus Neely, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council.

“It is about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be part of the community in which they live regardless of their circumstances or background.

“Social Inclusion is about supporting people who are disadvantaged and marginalised and helping them to participate in all aspects of social, cultural, economic and political life.

“Social Inclusion week 2017 is an opportunity to showcase the great work taking place throughout the County which aims to improve the quality of life for all.”

To check out what’s on in your area, you can view the brochure by following this link:
http://www.donegalcoco.ie/media/donegalcountyc/community/pdfs/socialinclusion/Social%20Inclusion%20Oct%202017%20Brochure.pdf?platform=hootsuite