The recently launched youth service, An Cosán, Erris UBU youth service celebrated a successful launch event at Áras Inis Gluaire on Friday, June 2nd. Operated by Foróige and funded by the Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB), this much-anticipated service aims to provide a safe and inclusive space for young people between the ages of 10 and 25 in Belmullet, Eachléim, and Cornboy.
The UBU Your Place Your Space scheme, under the auspices of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth, supports this initiative, offering out-of-school assistance to young people in their local communities. By empowering them to overcome challenging circumstances and reach their full potential, the scheme focuses on fostering self-confidence, resilience, creativity, and positive relationships.
Breda Ruane, MSLETB Youth Officer, expressed delight at the successful launch, stating, “It is wonderful to be at this stage, and we are delighted that the service got off to such a great start. Foróige has been a pleasure to work with, and they are providing a truly fantastic service for young people across Erris.”
Hazel O’Connor, a senior youth worker with Foróige based in An Cosán, emphasized the partnership and support provided by Breda in achieving positive outcomes for the young people in the area. The collaboration between the youth service and MSLETB has been instrumental in the service’s success.
The establishment of An Cosán in 2021/2022 was a result of MSLETB being selected, along with one other Education and Training Board (ETB), to develop a new youth service within their respective areas. The competition, which was open to all 16 ETBs in the country, acknowledged the unique potential of this project among many worthy contenders.
During the launch event, attendees were also informed about an exciting new virtual digital project involving MSLETB, Thamarai (India), Foróige, An Cosán, Erris Youth Service, and the BEY Project in Ballyhaunis and Swinford. This collaborative effort aims to further enrich the experiences of young people involved in these initiatives.
As An Cosán sets out on its journey to empower and support the youth of Erris, the service eagerly welcomes individuals from all walks of life. By providing a nurturing environment for personal growth and development, An Cosán seeks to create a positive impact on the lives of young people in the region.
The launch event showcased the promising beginnings of An Cosán, leaving attendees inspired and excited about the future prospects for youth engagement and development in Erris. With the dedicated support of Foróige, MSLETB, and the wider community, the service is poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people, fostering their potential and ensuring a brighter future for all. Congratulations to all involved!
