Region reaches out to displaced Ukrainians
At the start of the year, few would have predicted the upheaval that has befallen the people of Ukraine. Following a fateful decision by Russian President, Vladimir Putin to invade the country, this vast nation has been subjected to almost continual attack from Russian Federation forces, which in turn has led to displacement of a significant portion of the population. These, mainly women and children, have fled for their lives seeking refuge mainly in Europe.
Ireland has already taken several thousand refugees. Traumatised by what they’ve been through, they must now attempt to establish new lives in a ‘foreign’ country. Towns and villages throughout Ireland have responded by setting up support groups, with Blackwater Ukrainian Solidarity Group flying the flag in the Fermoy/ Mitchelstown area. Speaking following last week’s first public meeting of the group, spokesperson, Graham Clifford said the gathering had been ‘ constructive’ and ‘positive’.
“The main message coming from the meeting was that people want to help, this is hugely encouraging and once again underscores this country’s willingness to reach out to those whose lives have been turned upside down. We had a lot of contributors in what was a very constructive and positive exercise,” he said.
FOCUS ON TOWN CENTRE LOCATION
While a lot of the meeting was aspirational, there was a major breakthrough following ‘agreement in principle’ that a building formerly owned and occupied by the Blue Nuns in Fermoy town centre was being made available to assist with the refugee situation. The fact that it was recently refurbished, is close to schools and amenities and is ready to be occupied are all major pluses.
FERMOY AND SURROUNDING AREAS READY TO PLAY THEIR PART
The takeaway message from the meeting was that Fermoy and its hinterland stands ready to provide practical support to displaced Ukrainians. The challenge for the recently formed Blackwater Ukrainian Solidarity Group is to co-ordinate the various pledges of support and to assist with the integration process.
It’s anticipated that the group will liaise with Government agencies as well as organisations such as the Irish Red Cross and Saint Vincent de Paul.
FLY THE FLAG
A number of speakers urged the public to source and display Ukrainian flags - a visible gesture of solidarity with a nation fighting for its very survival.