NATIONAL
COUNCIL REPORT PLUS: Youth Forum Report 2019 Vol. 2
Guider’s Link
CONTENTS Chief Commissioner's Message 3 Noticeboard 4 National Council 2019 6 Health Promotion 12 Development 14 Cygnet Section 16 BrigĂn Section 18 Guide Section 20 Ranger Section 22 Training 24 International 26 Zoo Day Activities 30 Outdoors 32 Youth Forum 36 Around Ireland 40 Contacts 47
Don't forget to send your photos and articles for the Guiders Link to: guiderslink@girlguidesireland.ie. Closing date for the next issue is 1st July 2019 2 Guiders Link Vol. 2
CHIEF COMMISSIONER'S MESSAGE Hello everyone, Welcome to another packed edition of the Guiders Link. Hope you enjoy the many articles, photos and ideas that the Guider's Link provides each edition. I’m writing this fresh from the 43rd National Council, it was great to see so many of you there and catch up with you all. It was a great National Council and definitely had a fun element to it, that’s what we want in all our activities, business and pleasure. Some notable events from National Council were; •
Presentation of the Gold Health Quality Mark
•
Launch of the Storrows Programme
•
Great international reports
• Launch of the ‘Say YES to Living Sustainably’ programme •
The inaugural CGI Oscars
I don’t even know where to start there was so much happened on the day. Once again, many congratulations to our Health Promotion team, the golden girls of Nicola, Eileen and Barbara, to achieve the Gold Health Quality Mark so soon after the Silver was a fabulous achievement and one we should all be proud of. I for one am extremely happy to be able say that CGI is a Gold standard youth health promoting organisation. Make sure you check out the resource bank on the website for loads of ideas and information on health strategies. The Storrows launched their programme for the 18 to 30 age group and many congratulations to Maria and her team on a great programme. You will see more of it in this edition of the Guider's Link. It was great to see leaders reporting back on their international experiences and giving us plenty of food for thought for how we progress the ideas they brought back from their travels.
And such fun at the Oscars, many congratulations to the winners and a special word of congratulations to the Lifetime Award winner – Dolores Farnan. Make sure to check out Dolores acceptance “song” on the Facebook page, Well done Dolores. Many thanks to Nicola, Eoin, Erinn and Antoinette for all the work they put into National Council, it shows on the day and is very much appreciated. Following on from National Council Nicola and I met with Louise Fitzpatrick for the review of our NQSF report. The National Quality Standards Framework is the measure used to ensure we are doing what we should be doing and reaching our targets. Louise congratulated us on the work we do but once again has said we need to make ourselves more visible and to take ownership and appreciate all the hard work we put into Guiding. As I said at National Council, we are a fabulous organisation and we need to make sure everyone out there knows just how fabulous we are. So, ladies don’t be modest, shout it from the roof tops how brilliant CGI is and all the opportunities that we offer to the young people in our care. A reminder once again that if you are due to be revetted by the National Vetting Bureau or AccessNI, please ensure you get it done, it only takes a few minutes and you need to be re-vetted every three years. Many thanks to the CPA trainers who have completed a colossal amount of training lately. The safeguarding team have met recently and I look forward to their report. So, Zoo Day next and National Camp, I look forward to seeing a lot of you at the Zoo, fingers crossed the weather is kind to us and I most especially look forward to welcoming the Guides and Rangers and their Guiders to Wexford to the National Camp. We will do our best to ensure the sunny South East lives up to its name! Hope all your planning is going well for your summer camps, weekends, day trips. Whatever activities you are undertaking between now and September. Enjoy and stay safe.
Yours in Guiding, Emily McCann Chief Commissioner chiefcommissioner@girlguidesireland.ie
Congratulations to Siobhan Mullins on the launch of her ‘Say YES to Living Sustainably’ programme, this is available on the website and I would encourage you all to use it. The excerpt from it that we have printed in the Guider's Link is a great resource to use before the Zoo Day and you could do it along with the endangered species badge.
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NOTICEBOARD UPCOMING NATIONAL EVENTS NEB All Sections Zoo Day National Guide & Ranger Camp CCA Projects Closing Date Members Council Weekend CCA Interviews Guide Weekend Ranger Weekend
18 May 25th May 28th -30th June 27th September 18th - 20th October Throughout November TBA 1st - 3rd November
RESOURCE DATES International Day of Families
May 15
World Bee Day
May 20
International Children's Day
June 1
World Environment Day
June 5
World Refugee Day World Chocolate Day International Day of Friendship
June 20
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 4 Guiders Link Vol. 2
July 7 July 30
Reminder to all Guiders: Forms containing personal information should only be kept by you for current registered members and must be stored appropriately. For historical information and members who have left the organisation, please send the forms to the National Office where the information will be scanned and stored in a safe. This is to meet our insurance obligations.
NEWS FROM THE BOARD • Donations to the Thinking Day Fund should be sent to National Office as soon as possible • Please ensure cheques are made payable to ‘Catholic Guides of Ireland’ (not CGI), and Unit cheques have two signatories • Internal Financial Controls Procedures reviewed and approved by the Board • Storrows logo and pin approved by the Board • CGI are now in the 1st year of the 3rd three year cycle of the National Quality Standards Framework (NQSF). Evidence assessment held in National Office by Standards Officer from the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, went extremely well
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NATIONAL COUN The 43rd National Council of the Catholic Guides of Ireland was held on Saturday 6th April at the Osprey Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare. The meeting was chaired by Emily McCann, Chief Commissioner. Marie Hannigan, South West Region and Emma Reynolds, Northern Region read a Reflection. The Agenda and Minutes from the 42nd National Council were adopted. A detailed Financial Report for year ended 31 December 2018 was presented by Eileen Mc Carthy, National Treasurer including a breakdown of the Income and Expenditure, the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme and the need for a Reserves Policy. The Financial Report was then adopted.
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NCIL 2019
SATURDAY 6TH APRIL OSPREY HOTEL NAAS
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A slideshow and video of the Annual Report 2018 was screened, giving everyone the opportunity to see some of the great work carried out by our members during the year. The Annual Report for 2018 was adopted. Emily then gave her Chief Commissioner address, a copy of which was sent to all Guiders in CGI after the National Council meeting. Emily gave feedback on the Resolutions that were approved at National Council 2018.
The following Resolution was put forward and approved by National Council 2019: The National Executive Board propose that the National Commissioner for Ranger Guides and her team, review the age range for Ranger Guides Notice of Amendments to the Constitution of the Association in relation to Registration were approved.
Caoimhe McNamara, Eastern Region, gave a very interesting presentation on the Growth Gathering 2018, hosted by WAGGGS Europe Region, which she attended.
Noreen Glacken, Le Cheile Corcaigh, and Fr. John Power, Chaplain to the Diocese of Cork, were remembered by Council, having passed away during the year.
Katrin Wolschke from the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI), gave a presentation on ‘Skills Summary - The easy way to track and develop your life skills’.
Lisa Harold, Health Promotion Officer- National Youth Health Programme, attended National Council to present CGI with the Gold Standard of the Health Quality Mark.
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After lunch, guest speaker Su Carty gave an inspirational talk on stepping outside of your comfort zone to embrace new challenges.
Two International presentations were given by Alison Dowling, South West Region, on her experience at the Helen Storrow Seminar and Marie Denham, Eatern Region, on Roverway 2018 and Eurojam 2020.
Maria Travers, National Commissioner for Development, and members of the Development Team gave a presentation and the new Storrows programme was launched at National Council.
Siobhan Mullins, South West Region, presented her project from the Helen Storrow Seminar ‘Say Yes to Living Sustainably’. A copy of the project was given to everyone at National Coucil on USB, and Emily presented Siobahn with her own copy.
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Elections: Brenda Davison, National Secretary. Carina Burke, National Commissioner for Cygnet Guides. Yvonne Murphy, National Commissioner for Brigin Guides Brid Barnes, National Commissioner for Guides Suzanne Lenihan, International Commissioner Arlene Griffin, National Commissioner for Outdoors. Tara Smithers, Ordinary Member
Presentations: Presentations were made to outgoing members of the National Executive Board: Geraldine Conway Sarah Browne Liz Collins
National Commissioner for Cygnet Guides National Commissioner for Brigin Guides South West Regional Commissioner
CGI Oscars: For the first time, CGI Oscars were held at National Council and this created a fun end to the day. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners, especially Dolores Farnan who received the CGI Oscar Lifetime Award and celebrated by singing the ‘Community Song’.
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Guides… It’s a healthy thing
HEALTH QUALITY MARK Over the last couple of years, the Health Promotion team has been working to achieve the Health Quality Mark. At National Council, CGI was presented with the Health Quality Mark Gold Standard, by the National Youth Health Programme, which is a partnership between the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI), the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA). The Health Quality Mark aims to promote quality youth health promotion practice, which in turn promotes healthy and supportive environments for all our members and staff. The Health Quality Mark supports and compliments the National Quality Standards Framework (NQSF). There are four distinct levels for Health Promotion: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Developing Personal Skills through Health Education Partnerships with Others Creating Supportive Environments Policy Development
CGI can now refer to ourselves as a ‘Youth Health Promoting Organisation’ and we would like to thank each and every adult member for the continuous work you do in your Units, to provide a challenging Guiding programme within a safe environment, for our youth members. You may have noticed weekly posts on the CGI Facebook page from the Health Promotion team, if not take a look! Also, keep an eye out for the Health Promotion pages in the Guider’s Link. Also, there is a Resource Bank on the CGI website, full of useful information and websites where you can get lots of information on Health Promotion, to use for yourself and within your Unit. Log into the Members section of the website and click on Health Promotion, Resource Bank. If you do not have a member log in to the website, please contact Erinn in the National Office, admin@girlguidesireland.ie If you have any questions you can contact us at healthpromotion@girlguidesireland.ie Health Promotion Team
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DEVELOPMENT The Pilot Storrows Programme was launched at National Council on the 6th of April, 2019. The Programme is designed for the 18 - 30 age group to give flexibility with school/ college/starting work and provides for individual choices, is interactive and inclusive. It is therefore designed in a way to “keep involved” and can be a “dip in and out” option for Guiders and/or Rangers to keep in touch with their peers while also facilitating personal development. It does not replace either the Guider or Ranger Sections. The CGI Storrows Facebook page provides members of the Storrows with a range of benefits, and opportunities to empower yourself in a variety of ways and to support users working, thinking and acting together. You can ask other members for help, advice and support, share ideas or just check in. Most importantly you will experience a sense of belonging, support and potentially form lifelong friendships. Whatever your passion, books, bands, recipes or ideas, it will be catered for within the group. To get the most out of this programme you could consider joining our Facebook page CGI Storrows or perhaps check out the CGI Website under ‘Development’ which also contains links, articles and topics for discussion. For further information email storrows@girlguidesireland.ie
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CGI DEVELOPMENT FORUM REPORT The Development Forum took place on the 27th and 28th of January, 2019 in Ozanam House, Mornington, Co Meath. Twenty two guiders participated in this weekend, giving generously of their time and energy to inform this process. The purpose of the forum was to promote current thinking, research models and explore best practice regarding ‘Development and Change Initiatives’ for CGI, while building on and acknowledging existing knowledge and skills of all our members. Louise Monaghan, NYCI was engaged to facilitate the forum supported by Management Consultant Helen Newman, who had a particular expertise in relation to the management of change. We began by celebrating and acknowledging what we do well, our successes as previously captured in a recent 18 – 30’s Survey Monkey.
‘Be in som g pa am eth rt of azi ing ng ’…
ve ha art I p ’… l ee e ily I f com fam be a of
‘I gained confidence and it help me step out of my comfort zone’…
‘I found the job I wanted to work at through guides’……..
‘I feel a sense of belonging’….
FORUM - SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS: • There is a need to develop an organisational chart, which outlines and clarifies roles and responsibilities.
‘I made Life Long Friendships’
‘Great Friends and Great’ Experiences’ ..
• A document for each section as well as a one pager linking to the strategic plan outlining paths of progression.
• To support diverse leadership in terms of age, background, ethnicity, religion, disability and experience
• Complete a training needs analysis in order to identify relevant and necessary training, which is then marketed with the content outlined and the benefits identified.
• For young leaders to remain and to have a level of responsibility – Members’ Council could have a role in this
• There is need to have a rolling recruitment strategy in place.
• There is a need to clearly define what the Storrows programme is, what it does and where it fits in relation to the rest of CGI • The structure of CGI needs to be examined in order to identify what is working and what is not working. • The role and composition of the Board of Management needs to be examined and amended.
• To hire a consultant to develop the areas of marketing and social media. • There is a need to complete a more in-depth piece of work on the Rangers. • Identify good practice in relation to Awards Structures in other organisations in order to develop a more comprehensive offering
NEXT STEPS The proposal is to explore these recommendations and develop a ‘plan of action’ prioritising key initiatives that are feasible and easily implemented within a reasonable timeframe in order to grow the organisation and secure a ‘brighter future’ for CGI plus set the cornerstone for the Strategic Plan.
We will keep you posted as we progress.
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CYGNETS Hi Everyone, Summer is here let the sun shine, it’s a great time to get out and about. Here are some ideas for the summer months.
OUTDOOR BADGE This time of year is a great opportunity to get exploring and started on your outdoor badge. Sometime hiking can be long or tiring, why not spice it up. Theme the walk if it's an animal walk have the girls was in different directions of animals for example, sideways like a snail. Colours walk, give each child a sheet with colours on it, each time they see something they give it a tick, for example a person with a blue coat or the grass and tree are green.
Thank you all for your support, guidance and friendship over the past two years on my journey as Cygnet Commissioner. Can’t wait to see you all at the Zoo day in May, we’re going to the zoo, zoo, zoo, you can come too, too, too.
Yours in Guiding Geraldine Conway National Commissioner for Cygnets
CAMPFIRE SONG
This song would get you up and moving, why not have a campfire evening with parents to end the Guiding year, smores and songs,
THE BED BUG SONG I woke up Monday morning, I looked up on the wall, The beetles and the bedbugs were having a game of ball The score was six to two The bettles were ahead The bedbugs hit a home run and knocked me out of bed.
Chorus: Singing eanie, meanie and a minee moe Chatch a whipper whopper by the toe and if he hollers, hollers, hollers don't let him go singing eanie, meanie and a mine-e moe
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I went downstairs to breakfast I had ham and eggs I ate so many pickles the juice ran down my legs I went into the bathroom I sat upon the pot ewww! those nasty pickles They sure did hit the spot
FATHERS DAY CRAFT: DAD YOU ROCK
Supplies
• ¼ cup salt • ½ cup flour • ¼ cup water • bowl • cookie sheet • ½ cup pea gravel
ROCKS”. Press them firmly but gently into the salt dough. 5. Bake your paperweight for 2-2.5 hours until completely dry.
6. Remove from oven and allow to cool before handling or removing from cookie sheet. 7. Optional: You can spray your creation with acrylic sealer or paint it with a clear coat sealer.
Method 1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F. 2. Mix flour, salt, and water together in a bowl. If the dough is too sticky add small amounts of flour until it is doughy and pliable. Be careful not to add too much as the dough will dry out and your creation will crack. 3. Shape a piece of the dough into a ball in your hands. Place the ball on the cookie sheet and flatten to about ½ thickness. 4. Carefully select pieces of pea gravel to spell out “DAD
SUMMER BANANA SPLIT BITES INGREDIENTS:
• 3 Bananas • 1/4 lb Cored Pineapple • 6 Strawberries • 1 cup Dipping Chocolate • 1/4 cup Chopped Peanuts or coconut • 12 Popsicle Sticks (or skewers) Method 1. Cut strawberries in half. 2. For each strawberry half, cut an equal size piece of banana and pineapple. 3. Place pineapple on first, then banana and lastly strawberry. 4. Place in freezer for 10 minutes.
5. Line a tray with wax paper or parchment paper. 6. Put chopped nuts or coconut in small plate to use for dipping. 7. Melt chocolate by heating in microwave for 30 seconds, stirring and repeating until melted and smooth. 8. Dip cold fruit in chocolate, then into nuts, then place on prepared tray.
OUTDOOR GAME DOGGY, DOGGY, WHERE’S YOUR BONE In this game, the child who is the Doggy turns around while someone steals his “bone”. The bone can be any object, but with smaller kids using a toy bone might make it easier to understand. When the Doggy turns around, all the children attempt to look guilty while Doggy guesses who stole the bone. With little ones, let them guess until they pick the right person, then it's the next child’s turn to be doggy
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BRIGÍNÍ Welcome to our last term of the year, and it is also my last Guider's Link pages as Brigin Commissioner. Thanks to everyone for your support over the past two years and best of luck to the new Brigin Commissioner. This time of year is one of change for our girls too. Did you know that we lose almost half of our girls in the transition from Brigini to Guides? Here are a few ideas to try keep the girls interested and to keep growing our organisation for the future
Sarah Browne National Commissioner for Brigini
SOME TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP OUR GIRLS MOVING TALK TO PARENTS Having parents invested in their daughter’s guiding experience is crucial to keeping them with us. As your girls approach the age to move on, discuss their next steps with parents. They might not know about the other sections in guiding, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
THINK PRACTICALLY It might be easier for girls and their parents if sections meet on the same evening, so try to join up with your local units if possible. Alternatively, make sure you let girls know about all available units in their area. Sometimes, the one nearest their home might not be the most convenient.
GIVE GIRLS A TASTER Invite girls at the top end of a younger section to come along to one of your meetings. This will help prepare them for what’s to come, and by meeting some of the older girls, they’ll be introduced to some future friends! Don’t forget to take their parents details so that you can contact them personally about joining, when the time is right.
FOCUS ON SKILLS The skills and new experiences that guiding brings become even more important as girls get older and start to think about their futures. For example, Guides have told us that learning new skills and having adventures is particularly important to them. For your older girls, why not invite some young leaders or volunteers to talk to them about the opportunities that guiding gave them, from leadership skills, to international adventure, to helping with their higher education applications?
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BRIGIN LINK BADGE With the help of your Guider: (a) Arrange to meet a Girl Guide and find out the differences between a Brigín Guide and Guide Company meeting (b) Design a poster promoting Guiding Activities (c) Take part with Guides on a hike, outing, meeting etc. (d) Find out what a ‘Linking-up’ Ceremony is and take part in one. Ask your Guider for details
LINK CEREMONY Here are some examples of link ceremonies (also called flying up or bridging ceremony). Maybe your unit already does a link up ceremony and you would be willing to share your ideas in Guider's Link for other units? There are lots and lots of ideas online, especially Pinterest which you may be able to adapt for your own unit.
guiding adventure and say goodbye to your brigin friends. During your time in brigins with us, we had many adventures including _______________. I hope you have as many adventures during your next part of the guiding adventure.
Creating your own ceremony Moving up to a new section is an important transition in a Girl Guide's life. It's a defining moment when a girl becomes aware of her achievements and is ready for new adventures and responsibilities. Celebrating this change should be fun, personalized, and memorable for everyone involved. And most of all, it should be designed by the girls in true partnership with adults.
Arrange all the girls who are not moving up into a line, in pairs. The brigini moving up to guides walk down the middle of the line saying goodbye to everyone. At the end of the line, the last two girls take the brigin and present her to the guide leader who shakes their left hand and welcomes her to the guide unit.
Brigin leader introduces brigin to new guide leader and she welcomes her to the guide family.
All the brigini stand at one end of the room and the guides stand at the other. At the brigin end, have a green candle and at the other end, enough blue Link ceremonies usually take place at the beginning or candles for the girls moving up. In a suitably safe end of the guiding year and can have three parts: holder, the transitioning girls have a candle in the unit • Opening: Guests are welcomed and the tone colours. The brigin guider makes a suitable speech, remembering the girls time as part of the brigin unit, is set. • Main section: The ceremony is explained and gives her any outstanding badges, certificates and link the girls celebrate moving from one level to the badge. Carefully, the brigin lights the coloured candle off the green candle and walks to the blue candles where next. she lights one, and blows out the coloured candle she • Closing: Girls can participate in friendship carried. Thus they have carried the flame of guiding circles and thank their guests. from their brigin unit to their new life in guides. They are then welcomed by the guide leaders and all the Each of the Ceremonies parts offers plenty of room guides. for the girls' creativity and individuality. The ceremony should always focus on paying tribute to all members of the guiding family as they move forward. Here are some Using grey card cut into stepping stones, the brigins cross the river to guides. The brigin leader stands ideas for you to try. on one riverbank and the guide leader on the other riverbank. The guides read out the guide laws as they Brigini assemble in a circle on one side of bridge with stand on each stepping stone. If they can cross the river their leaders. Guides are on opposite side with a leader without falling into the river then they are welcomed to in a horseshoe facing the bridge. guides Brigin leader: now its time for you to move on in your www.girlguidesireland.ie 19
GUIDES Hi I would like to introduce myself as new Commissioner for Guides. My name is Brid Barnes and I am Unit Leader in Buion Francis Taylor, Malahide in the Eastern Region. I have been part of CGI for many years and currently work with our Guide section. We have many challenges ahead this Guiding year, the most important being finalising the new programme for Guides. If you have ideas you would like included in the new programme or would like to be part of the team, get in contact guides@girlguidesireland.ie. As the summer months approach I know many of you will be heading off on your Guide Camps. I hope you all have a great time and share your experiences with us when you return. Looking forward to seeing you at Zoo Day and National Guide and Ranger Camp.
7KH 6RQJ On top of my cracker, so yummy and sweet, I’ll put on some chocolate, To make a good treat. Then comes the Marshmallow, so sticky and soft, and the one more cracker,
Brid Barnes National Commissioner for Guides
so it wont fall off. I put it together, so gently I press. If I squeeze too hard, it will make a big mess. I’m ready to eat it, this thing called a s’more, oh my it’s so yummy, I think I’ll have some more
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ROCK PHOTO HOLDERS Materials Needed:
•
Smooth Rocks
•
Copper Wire
•
Needle Nose Pliers
•
Acrylic Paint
•
Mod Podge
With the copper wire, wrap it around a pen or marker
Instructions
Straighten out the wire underneath the loops you have just created, and wrap the wire around the rock
Paint the rocks a solid colour, this may take more than one coat
And that’s it you can easily stick photos in the loops you have created
After the paint has dried add some decoration with a smaller brushpen or marker www.girlguidesireland.ie 21
RANGERS Hi Everyone,, Summer is here and you may be going on camp with your unit or on holidays with family and friends. Whatever you are doing during the holidays I hope that you have a great time. For those of your doing exams (or if you have just finished) I would like to wish you the best of luck and hope everything went well. I look forward to seeing you at the Zoo Day, National Guide and Ranger Camp and the National Ranger weekend in November, which is being held at Castle Saunderson Scout Centre this year. Let’s make it a great camp this year. Patricia Derwin, National Commissioner for Rangers
SAVE THE
DATE 25TH MAY 2019 – ZOO DAY
*Don’t forget that there will be a Ranger competition on the day. Please bring along your digital camera or phone to take some great photos.
25TH JUNE, 2019 NATIONAL GUIDE AND RANGER WEEKEND, Venue, IOAC, Co. Wexford. Cost €50 + travel €15.00
1ST TO 3RD NOVEMBER, 2019. RANGER WEEKEND Castlesaunderson Scout Camp, Belturbet, Co. Cavan,
Some of the planned activities for the weekend will include: • Personal development • Personal Safety • Outdoor Activities • Crafts • Games
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STAY SAFE THIS SUMMER
Tips for beachgoers
F.L.A.G.S.
1. Swim at a beach patrolled by lifeguards This is the safest part of the beach, because it’s where the lifeguards patrol. 2. Look for information and follow advice Find out about the beach before you go there, and check the weather and tide times. 3. Never swim alone 4. If you get into trouble in the sea, stick your hand in the air and shout for help 5. If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard If you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard. 6. Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas When there is little or no wind, only use inflatables between the red-and-yellow flags, and make sure children are closely supervised. 7. Supervise children Keep an eye on children at all times and agree on a meeting point when you arrive at the beach, in case you're separated. 8. Don’t go into the sea after drinking alcohol Alcohol slows your reactions and can impair your ability to judge distances. 9. Know your flags On beaches patrolled by lifeguards, different flags tell you where it’s safest to swim and which areas are designated for watersports.
To stay safe at the beach, always remember F.L.A.G.S. F - Find the red and yellow flags and swim between them. Always swim where there is a lifeguard on patrol, and stay inside the area marked by the red and yellow flags. Never swim where a sign says not to, or when the red flag is flying.
FLAGS YOU
NEED
RED FLAG no swimming at all
TO KNOW
L - Look at the safety signs. Always read and obey the safety signs - they will help you to avoid potential dangers on the beach, and to identify the safest areas for swimming. A - Ask a lifeguard for advice. If in doubt, it's always best to play it safe and ask the experts. G - Get a friend to swim with you. Make sure there are other people around, because you never know when help might be needed. S - Stick your hand in the air and shout for help if you get into difficulty. If you see someone else in difficulty: ALWAYS tell a LIFEGUARD Or if you can't see one CALL 999 / 112 ask for the COASTGUARD BETWEEN TWO BLACK & WHITE FLAGS no swimming are used by surfers & windsurfers
BETWEEN TWO RED & YELLOW FLAGS safe to swim & belly board
MINDFULNESS CALENDAR FOR JUNE 2019 SUN
MON 27.
28.
3.
Cultivate a feeling of loving and kindness towards others
10.
Make no plans for today. Slow down and let spontaneity take over
17.
Have a device free day and enjoy the space it offers.
23.
Bring to mind all the people you love and care about.
24.
Mentally scan down your body and notice what it is fully.
30.
Stop and think about the people who bring joy to your life.
3.
2.
Get outside and notice five things that are beautiful
9.
Listen to your favourite music
16.
If you find yourself rushing, make an effort to slow down.
TUES
29.
4.
Stay fully present while drinking a cup of tea or coffee
11.
When someone is speaking, take a full breath before you reply.
18.
Do something creative that absorbs your attention.
25.
Tune into your feelings without judging or trying to change.
4.
WED
THURS 30.
31.
6.
Eat mindfully; appreciate the taste, texture and smell of your food
12.
Feel the cool of a breeze or the warmth of the sun on your face
13.
Stop, breathe and just notice. Repeat regularly during the day.
19.
Listen deeply to someone and really hear what they are saying.
20. as soon as possible.
26.
As you walk, notice the sound of each step and how it feels.
5.
Every Hour simply take five breathes in and out
5.
Notice when you’re tired and take a break
27.
6.
FRI
Take a few minutes to stop and relax.
SAT 1.
Start today by appreciating that you’re alive and have a body
Look around and spot three things that you find unusual or present.
7.
Listen to how you speak to yourself. Try to use kind words
8.
14.
Enjoy doing chores or tasks more mindfully today.
15. notice what is different.
Stop to just watch the sky and clouds for ten
21. minutes today.
28.
7.
Make a list of amazing things that you take for granted.
Take an unusual route and
Focus on what makes you
22. happy.
29.
Appreciate your hands and all the things they enable you to do
8.
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TRAINING Since the last Guider's Link, trainers have been very busy throughout the Association. Northern Region STEM Training In January, the Northern Region ran a really successful STEM day. Almost 50 Guides, Rangers and Leaders attended . Everyone had the opportunity to participate in every activity- unicorn slime, lava lamps, balloon towers, bridge building, micro bits and scribble bots. We managed to include at least one activity from Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. We gathered all the participants together at the end to complete an evaluation of the day. We were delighted to hear about what the girls loved and what they didn’t really care about. It was really important for the trainers to hear this so that the next time we run a STEM day we can include the recommendations of the girls. What was really heartening to learn was that they want more days like this. Not only on a Regional level but also on a National level. Don’t neglect taking your girls to a STEM Day just because you don’t like the idea- I can guarantee that they will love it.
Guider Training Steps 2 and 3 were run in February in the Carlton Hotel, Dublin. 19 Leaders attended Step 2 and the sessions they participated in were Team Work, Personal Effectiveness through Effective Communication, OGM , International and Managing Challenging Behaviour. 11 Leaders attended the Step 3 course. Their sessions were Knowing Me Knowing You, Making a Positive Difference, Diversity and Project management. Both groups got together for the Digital PR session , Guides Own and Tai Chi which they participated in on Sunday Morning. This was a great way to waken up and start the day. I’d really like to thank all the participants because these courses are not
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compulsory but the leaders gave up their weekend and really entered into the spirit of the courses. I was also delighted to see that we had representatives from every Region. The work hasn’t ended though for the Step 3 participants because they are now working on their projects and after reading their Overviews, I am really looking forward to seeing the finished projects which I promise will be available for everyone to look at on the website.
Managing Challenging Behaviour A Managing Challenging Behaviour course was held in the Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords in March. We had 23 participants and the leaders were a great group to work with. No matter what region you work in I think most leaders are finding challenges with some of their girlsranging from Cygnets to Rangers! There were plenty of opportunities for the leaders to discuss the problems they are facing and working with their group to work out strategies to deal with the issues.
As you can see it was a busy 3 months. Many thanks to ALL the leaders who attended and a massive thank you to the trainers who made themselves available to deliver the training. I really appreciate all your hard work and dedication. All of the above courses were voluntary, Guider Training Step 1 however is compulsory. At the minute the Regional Commissioners are going through OGM to check that all leaders have completed this course. If not, you cannot attend meetings until you do. We will be contacting every leader who has not completed Step 1 in the very near future to see how we can help you sort this issue out! Yours in Guiding Eilish Smyth National Commissioner for Training www.girlguidesireland.ie 25
INTERNATIONAL Hi everyone Hope everyone had a fabulous Thinking Day and found their Thinking Day booklet useful. Don’t forget to send your Thinking Day fund donations into the national office as soon as possible so we can forward them to WAGGGS. Also send us your photos from Thinking Day, we love to see what you did.
WAGGGS EUROPE MEDAL Many congratulations to Yvonne Browne who received the WAGGGS Europe Medal at the International Commissioners Forum in Serbia recently. Yvonne was awarded the medal for her outstanding contribution to the Europe Region WAGGGS. Well done from all of us.
If you are traveling abroad with your girls this summer don’t forget to send your permission to camp form to me at international@girlguidesireland.ie within the required timeframe. In this issue we have detailed one of the relaunched UN / WAGGGS badges. There are lots more of these to do, so see the link in the article to find more info on these. Have a great summer and a well deserved rest Suzanne Lenihan International Commissioner international@girlguidesireland.ie
IC FORUM REPORT
I represented CGI at the International Commissioners Forum which, was held in Belgrade in Serbia from the 20th to the 24th of February. The first day was a WAGGGS only day where all the IC’s from WAGGGS members met to discuss topics of importance to them. These topics included WAGGGS new strategic plan and the changing to an overall 12 year plan with a 6 year strategic plan.
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That evening when all the WOSM IC’s had arrived we started the forum with a game of Guiding and Scouting Jeopardy and who says we’re not competitive! Much screaming, shouting and debating was involved but it was a great way for us all to get to know each other. Topics discussed over the joint conference days included the role of an IC and promoting international within our member associations along with detailing the help that’s out there for new IC’s. There were also workshops on the various programmes being undertaken within MO’s around Europe and the World Centres. There was no rest for the wicked at this forum as work continued well on into the evenings. Although we did get out to see some of Belgrade on the Saturday night and enjoy a very tasty traditional Serbian meal. Overall it was a great but tiring experience and I got to meet a lot of other IC’s and build connections which will be helpful during my term as IC.
WAGGGS PROGRAMMES ADVOCACY TOOLKIT
WAGGGS has just launched a new Toolkit for advocacy called “Advocacy Toolkit - Speak Out For Her World”. This is a Guide For Girls And Young Women To Start Their Own Advocacy Campaigns. As you know no country has yet achieved equality between women and men, and this remains one of the greatest injustices in the world. Advocacy plays a crucial role in achieving WAGGGS’ mission of facilitating women to change the world. This Advocacy Toolkit has been designed by young women, for young women. It serves as a step-by-step guide that anyone can use to design and deliver their own advocacy campaigns. This Toolkit was inspired by the incredible young women in WAGGGS, who raised their voices and told WAGGGS what they need to change their world. It is WAGGGS’s mission to enable girls and young women to develop their fullest potential as responsible citizens of the world. It’s their vision to create a world where all girls are valued and take action. Therefore, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts invites you to speak out. “So pack your bag, you are off on an adventure!” You can download the toolkit which has fantastic ideas from coming up with topics to discuss to designing their own campaign. See https://www. wagggs.org/en/what-we-do/speak-out/advocacy-toolkit/ www.girlguidesireland.ie 27
EVENTS FOR ADULTS Did you know that you can attend an event held at one of the World Centres throughout the year? You do not need to be invited so go ahead and visit one now! Each World Centre holds many different events throughout the year. We have detailed some below but there are many more - check out www.wagggs.org/en/events Here are just a sample of events on offer;
ALPINE ADVENTURE WEEK DATE: 4 Sep - 11 Sep 2019 IMPORTANT INFORMATION: A good level of fitness is required for this event. TOPIC: World Centre events LOCATION: Our Chalet, Switzerland COST: CHF 720 plus flights and transfers The Alpine Adventure Package includes: • 7 nights in rooms allocated by Our Chalet • All meals from dinner on arrival day to packed lunch on departure day • Luggage transfer from and to Adelboden Oey bus stop (8am - 6pm only, must be pre-booked) • 5 day programmes, 6 evening programmes • All costs associated with activities, hikes, and excursions (including gondolas) as indicated in the programme
SUMMER FRIENDSHIP EVENT AT OUR CABANA 2019 DATE: 12 Aug - 20 Aug 2019 LOCATION: Nuestra Cabaña, Cuernavaca, Mexico COST: 1100 USD plus flights and transfers Trip includes: • 8 nights in Nuestra Cabaña • Trips to Cuernavaca and Tepoztlan • Waterfall jumping or rafting • Service project • Programme
SARIS AND SPICES DATE: 9 Nov - 13 Nov 2019 LOCATION: Sangam World Centre, India COST: £420 GBP plus flights and transfers Immerse yourself in Indian culture as you stimulate all your senses. Experience the sights and sounds of market shopping, try your hand at tying a sari, smell the fragrant spices and enjoy tasting a feast of delicious food. As part of Saris and Spices you will discover the colourful city of Pune and learn more about this sensational country. 28 Guiders Link Vol. 2
EVENTS FOR GIRLS JOURNEY THROUGH LONDON DATE: Running for various dates between 23 Jun - 23 Aug 2019 LOCATION: Pax Lodge, London, United Kingdom. Open to girls 14 - 18 years old. COST: £525.00 A week-long summer event for girls to discover London with other members of Guiding and Scouting, participate in a community service project, and celebrate the international spirit of the movement in the city where it all began. Event highlights: • Guided bus tour around London • Ride on the London Eye • Visit to Tower of London • Theatre show in the West End • Leadership challenge around London • Evenings at Pax Lodge - exploring our history and learning about Guiding and Scouting in other parts of the world • WAGGGS session
CAMP4GIRLS A Camp 4 Girls will be held in Slovakia 4.-11.8.2019. The main topic is spirituality and identity of girl with motto: Let yourself be you! This camp is run by ICCG. PLACE: Kláštorisko (760mt. altitude) is an archeopark and touristic place in the heart of national park Slovak Paradise. In the middle of canyons, gorges, caves and streams is located a ruin of a monastery from the beginning of the 14th century. (You can check the websites: https://www.klastorisko.eu/en/ https://vraji.sk/en https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=0uwp9hXcWok) ACCOMODATION: in “cottage” (reconstruction of original cells of Carthusian monk). It is necessary to take own sleeping bags. Hygiene – as on scout camps (latrine only, spring and improvised camp shower). PROGRAM: Main program will be voluntary service on Kláštorisko. Daily work is finished usually at 4pm. Besides the voluntary service you can await workshops, lectures, reflections, trips to the National park Slovenský raj (Slovak Paradise) and a lot of fun! COST: €30 plus flights. For more info contact international@girlguidesireland.ie
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ZOO DAY ACTIVITIES Wildlife Conservation 1 Read the following and show a picture of each species - (Appendix 4 on the CGI website) Illegal Trade in Wildlife is one of many threats to species. At the heart of illegal trade is the unsustainable demand for wildlife and wildlife products. These species and many others need your help.
Elephant – Elephants are being poached in larger numbers for their ivory. In recent years, experts have estimated that as many as 100,000 elephants were killed between 2010 and 2012.
Pangolin – All eight species of pangolin are now globally threatened, with Asian species either Endangered or Critically Endangered.
Sea Turtle – Sea turtles are poached for their meat, their eggs are harvested unsustainably, and their shells are used for making jewelry and traditional crafts sold to tourists.
Tiger – Poaching is the leading threat to wild tigers. It is believed there are many medicinal benefits attached to the body parts particularly tiger bone.
Helmeted Hornbill – A combination of habitat loss, poaching and lack of law enforcement are deadly recipes for the helmeted hornbill. Jewelry and decorative ornaments made from their casque command a higher price than elephant ivory.
Orangutan – Illegally trafficked orangutans, and other ape species, can end up in zoos or as pets in private collections.
Rhino – About 96% of black rhinos were lost to large-scale poaching between 1970 and 1992, and although numbers have recovered since, today there are now just 4,800 black rhino individuals left in the wild.
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Wildlife Conservation Posters This is an opportunity for the girls to do some self-expression. Provide each patrol with a poster (Appendix 6 on the CGI website) and encourage them to use the facts and ideas from the matching game, as well as their own knowledge, to create a poster to inform others about their kindred species. The girls can express their ideas in a variety of ways that may include any/all of the following: A picture of the animal A list of general facts about the animal A chart to show how the population has changed over time An explanation to describe why/how the animal is endangered Suggestions for how others can help Once completed the posters can be placed on the walls around your meeting hall and the girls can partake in a Gallery Walk. As they rotate around the hall and observe each group’s poster, they should be thinking of how to respond to the poster later on: One thing they like about the poster A question they have about the poster Something they found surprising about the poster After the girls have finished the Gallery Walk, allow time to reflect and comment on each poster. Ask the girls to share ideas they found interesting or unique and how the Gallery Walk has changed the way they think about these animals and how we can help.
Activities In groups, ask the youth in your companies to discuss the posters on (Appendix 7 on the CGI website)
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OUTDOORS Hey All, This is a great time of year to put all the skills you’ve learned over the winter in to practise. Why not hold an Inter-Patrol Competition? You can use your imagination or previous programme plans to come up with your own bases, but I’ve included some suggestions below which should be easily adaptable to your groups level. You can also use these games to start planning your patrol camps; consider having a base around menu planning (target to keep healthy/ within budget), campsite layout (marks for every area included). Looking forward to hearing about all of your adventures! Yours in Guiding, Arlene Griffin National Commissioner for Outdoors
COMPASS BLINDFOLD COMPASS WALK (wide, in or out) Materials: for each of four patrols, a numbered stake, a compass, a large paper bag, and a large playing area or field Method: In the center of a large area, set each patrol’s stake in the ground about 10 feet apart. One Guide from each patrol stands at their patrol’s stake. A Guide from one patrol sets their compass between 20 and 80º; a Guide from another patrol, between 100 and 170º; a Guide from another patrol, between 190 and 260º; and a Guide from another patrol, between 280 and 350º. A paper bag is then placed over the head of each Guide, permitting her to see only the ground and the compass in their hand. Each Guide turns herself around three times, then follows the bearing on their compass for 50
steps. They then turn around and follows the bearing back (orienting the direction of travel arrow toward herself instead of away) for 45 steps. Scoring: Only Guides within 5 steps of their stake, score. COMPASS FACING (small, in or out) Materials: one compass for each patrol Method: Patrols line up in parallel formation. First Guide steps forward with their compass. Leader will call out a bearing and those Guides with the compass will then race to see who can face that bearing first. Each patrol member must go at least once. Scoring: Patrols score points each time one of their members is the first to face in the correct direction.
FIRST AID BANDAGE RELAY (small, in or out) Materials: Guide neckerchief or triangular bandage for each patrol Method: Each Guide selects a buddy from their own patrol and the pair lines up double file, facing an assigned judge who is standing 25 feet away with a neckerchief or triangular bandage. The name of a bandage, either “ankle,” “head,” or “sling,” is called out. When the name of the bandage is announced, each pair of Guides run over to their judge and correctly apply the bandage to their buddy. The judge checks bandages as they are finished. As soon as a bandage is approved by the judge, it is removed, and the Guide on which the bandage was 32 Guiders Link Vol. 2
tied now ties the same bandage on their buddy. When the judge approves both bandages, the buddies run back to their patrol and tag off the next pair of Guides. Scoring: Each pair that correctly ties the bandages gets a point for their patrol. The first pair to run back to their patrol scores an additional point. ICE ACCIDENT (wide, in or out) Materials: for each patrol, a 10 to 15-foot rope, a Guide stave or broomstick handle, and a blanket Method: Casually arrange the equipment in a corner of the room so that it’s ready for use, but don’t draw attention to it. Have each
patrol place a Guide “victim” in a prone position at the opposite end of the room. Announce that these victims have broken through the ice and that it is up to each patrol to rescue its victim and to render first aid. Note the following: • Whether or not ropes and staves are noticed and used • Whether or not the victim is warmed by the blanket and treated for shock • Whether or not the need to administer CPR is ascertained • Whether or not medical help is summoned Scoring: The patrol with the best performance and time wins .
KNOTS & LASHINGS
handing off the cord to the next Guide in line. All patrol members need to go at least once, and some might need to go more than once to keep things even. The leader holding the stave keeps a tally of each correctly tied knot. After all patrol members have taken the designated amount of turns Scoring: The first patrol seated in a straight line with the most correctly tied square knots wins.
50-FOOT RESCUE RELAY (wide, in or out) Materials: a cardboard square and one 50-foot rope for each patrol Method: Patrols line up in relay formation. One Guide from each patrol sits on the square of cardboard about 35 feet in front of their patrol. On signal each patrol prepares their rope for an accurate distance throw. One member casts the line to their Guide who must grab the rope while remaining on the cardboard. Once they have the rope, they tie a bowline around their waist, grab the cardboard with both hands and remain on the cardboard as the rest of their patrol pulls them ashore. Scoring: Patrols score points according to how effectively they can rescue their patrol mate(s). Variation: Patrol members take turns coiling and throwing the rope and riding the cardboard. KNOT HOOP RELAY (small, in or out) Materials: 6-foot rope for each patrol Method: On signal, the first Guide
ties the rope into a hoop with a sheet bend and passes it over their head and down their body. They step out of the hoop, untie the knot and pass the rope to the next Guide who repeats the method and so on down the line. A judge for each patrol will observe the knots. Scoring: Points are given for each correctly tied sheet bend, and extra points to the patrol that finishes the quickest. If there are different numbers of Guides in the patrols, announce a specific number of knots to be tied, requiring some patrol members to go more than once. SIMPLE SQUARE KNOT RELAY RACE (large, in or out) Materials: for each patrol, a 3 foot cord and a Guide stave Method: Patrols line up in relay formation facing a leader holding their Guide stave in an upright position. On signal, the Guide at the head of the line runs to the stave with the 3-foot cord and ties a square knot down onto and flush against the stave. When this is completed, they remove their cord and run back to their patrol,
HITCHING CHALLENGE (RACE) (small, in or out) Materials: 15-foot braided nylon or polyester cords attached at the bottom of one or more erected 4-foot upright poles (Guide staves can be used, with someone holding the pole in a vertical position for the Guide applying the hitches) Method: Guides apply a succession of over-an-end half hitches over the upright pole(s). Scoring: The most half hitches applied in a set amount of seconds is the winner. EVERYONE ON THE TRIPOD (wide, in or out) Materials: for each patrol, three 8-foot x 4-inch spars, three sturdy 6-foot x 3-inch spars, six 15-foot lashing ropes, one 20-foot lashing rope. Method: On signal, patrol members lash the three 8-foot spars into a tripod, using the 20foot rope. When finished, they set up the tripod and using six square lashings, lash a 6-foot spar between each of the legs. When all lashings are completed and the tripod is strong and secure, all the patrol members stand on the 6-foot spars, making sure their weight is evenly distributed. Scoring: The first patrol with all its members off the ground wins.
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TENTS TENT PITCHING RACE (wide, out) Materials: for each half-patrol team, one troop tent with everything properly packed Method: The half-patrol teams line up across from their tent. On signal, each team pitches their tent. When completed, the sides must be smooth and tight and the tent door closed.
TRAIL SIGNS
Scoring: The first patrol with both tents put up correctly wins the race. TENT STRIKING RACE (wide, out) Method: This race is the same as for “Tent Pitching Race�, but in reverse. Scoring: The first patrol with both tents properly packed wins the race.
face down; the cards with the definitions are spread out face up. On signal, the first Guide from each patrol runs to their set of cards and draws one of the face down cards. They place it on the correct definition card, run back, and tag the next Guide. Continue until all cards are matched. Scoring: The first patrol to correctly match all cards wins. NAME THAT PLANT (small, in or out) Materials: a collection of locally grown leaves from various plants and trees each assigned a number displayed on a table, paper and pencils
TRAIL SIGNS RELAY (small, in or out) Materials: two sets of 3-by-5 index cards for each patrol (each of the first set bearing a drawing of a trail sign; each of the second set with the definition of one of the
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trail signs) Method: The patrols line up in relay formation. The two sets of cards are placed about 25 feet in front of each patrol. The cards with the pictured trail signs are placed
Method: On a piece of paper, Guides write their name and the name of the plant corresponding to each numbered leaf displayed on the table. After identifying the leaves the best they can, they record their answers on their paper and turn it in. Scoring: Some kind of prize is presented for the most correct identifications.
WOOD CRAFT WOOD SPLITTING RELAY (small, in or out) Materials: protective eyewear, leather gloves, a chopping block, and hatchet for each patrol, a 9 inch x 1 inch dry stick for each patrol member Method: Patrols line up relay formation 15 feet from their chopping block, hatchet, protective eyewear, and leather gloves. An equal number of sticks are passed out to each patrol so that every patrol member has one. On signal, the first Guide in line walks over to their patrol’s materials, places their stick on the chopping block, and puts on the protective eyewear, and gloves. When ready, they pick up the hatchet and use the contact method to split their stick. Once split, they carefully place the hatchet back on the chopping block, take off the eyewear and gloves and tag off the next Guide in line who repeats the process. Scoring: The first patrol to split all their sticks wins. BOW SAW RELAY (small, in or out) Materials: for each patrol, one bow saw, one pair of leather gloves, protective eyewear, one log about 3 to 4 feet long with a 2 to 4-inch butt, and one short, thick log or block for support Method: The patrols line up in relay formation, each facing their log from a distance of 20 feet. The bow saw is placed alongside the log. On signal, two Guides from each patrol run up to the log. One Guide steadies the log positioned on the support block, while the second Guide puts on the gloves and saws off a disk about 2 inches thick. As soon as the disk drops to the ground, the Guides change positions and another disk is sawed
off. When the second disk hits the ground, the bow saw and gloves are placed beside the log, then both Guides race back to the starting line and tag the next two Guides, who repeat the process. This continues until all Guides have had a chance to saw and all members of the patrol have returned to the starting line. Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins. FUZZ STICK RELAY (small, in or out) Materials: for each patrol, one sharp knife and one stick of dry softwood, 9 inches long and 1/2 inch thick Method: Each patrol lines up in relay formation opposite their knife and stick, about 20 feet away. On signal, the first Guide runs up and cuts one sliver on the stick, lays the knife down, and runs back to tag the next Guide, and so on. Slivers should be at least an inch long. Twenty slivers, all attached, complete the fuzz stick.
camp for five minutes without talking. The Guides are permitted to touch what they see, but must replace objects exactly as they found them. Each patrol then huddles to come up with a list of wrong things. Scoring: The patrol with the best list of “incorrect” objects wins. WATER BOILING RACE (wide, out) Materials: 16 oz. can filled with water to within 1/2-inch from the top and containing one teaspoon of soap powder or squirt of liquid soap, two or three matches, two bricks to rest the can on, an area to build the fire that will not impact the environment and is positioned a safe distance from other patrol fire areas, filled fire bucket for each patrol
Variation 2: Each Guide cuts six slivers into her own stick.
Method: Before the race, each patrol gathers and organizes native tinder, and kindling for their fire (or is limited to materials provided). Each patrol selects two representatives. On signal, the two Guides set up their fireplace, light a fire, place the can of water over the fire, and keep feeding the fire until the water boils. Other patrol members help as needed.
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
Scoring: The first patrol to get the water boiling wins.
Variation 1: The Guides each cut three or four slivers instead of just one.
SLOPPY CAMP (small, in or out) Materials: a simple camp setup (dining fly, tent and fireplace) with many things wrong—tent flaps open, boots left outside tent, ax on the ground, bow saw unsheathed, glass jar in the fireplace, no fire buckets, firewood unsorted and uncovered, trash on the ground, dirty pot on camp table, poorly set tent pegs, guylines at wrong angles, wrong knots on guylines, etc. Method: The patrols study the
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YOUTH FORUM The CGI Youth Forum took place on the 10th of March 2019 at Maynooth University Campus, County Kildare. 81 Guides, 33 Rangers and 36 Leaders arrived from the Eastern, Northern, South East, and South West Regions. Chief Commissioner Emily McCann gave a welcome address to open the Forum, and a reflection was read by Ranger Sarah Mitchell from Buion Columbanus. The day got off to a fantastic start as participants were treated to a preview of the Annual Report slideshow which showcased some of the exciting activities that CGI members got up to throughout 2018. This was followed by a full day of workshops and discussions facilitated by CGI members and guests. Guides participated in workshops on Positive Mental Health, The Shona Project, the Guide Badge Review and CGI Communications. Rangers participated in sessions on Personal Progression, Online Safety, Development and the Storrows Programme, and a Focus Group with Louise Fitzpatrick from the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. Guides and Rangers also engaged in discussions with Emily about the future of CGI and the issues that matter to them within the organisation. The day concluded with a Q&A panel chaired by Ranger Emma Kilgour from Buion Naomh Pรณl, with National Officers and members of the National Executive Board. This gave everyone the opportunity to find out more about their roles and responsibilities.
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The hard work of all present deserves high praise, and the youth members in particular can be commended on their insightful contributions to an excellent Youth Forum which will lead to progress for CGI as a whole. Special thanks to our guests Tammy Darcy, Louise Fitzpatrick, Leonard Kelly, Jonny Pardoe, Aedin O'Cuireain, and to the Leaders, Commissioners, National Officers and staff who made the day possible.
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HAVE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE THINGS THAT GUIDES AND RANGERS HAD TO SAY ABOUT THE DAY: “Informative, interesting, inclusive and fun!” “I learned the qualities of a good Leader and I will use them when I become a Leader.” “I really enjoyed the day and would recommend it as an annual event.” “Our passion and determination for Guiding made us come together as one group.” “I will use my work today as an inspiration to other young people.” “I enjoyed the Personal Progression workshop as it opened my eyes to the many opportunities, experience, skills and qualities CGI provides.”
MY FAVOURITE PART WAS… “…giving our ideas and knowing I had an impact on improving CGI.” “…when I learned I should believe in myself.” “My favourite part was being able to be put into groups with people we do not know, we get to have a discussion and get to know others… I have gained more confidence doing this and I am looking forward to building up my voice and opinion.”
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www.skillssummary.ie
Skills Summary The easy way to track and develop your life skills Core Competencies
Skills Summary
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Identify your key strength by answering 12 short questions in each of our 12 categories
Receive awards and review your progress on your personalised Profile Page
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WHAT IS SKILLS SUMMARY? 4 Easy to use online tool for young people between 16 and 25 4 Measures the skills young people gain through youth work and volunteering 4 Builds confidence by honing core competencies 4 Helps young people communicate the value of these skills to future employers 4 Supports CV and job interview preparation 4 Recognised measurement tool under the Youth Employability Initiative
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COMMUNICATIONS As I’m sure anyone that attended National Council, or indeed anyone who looks at the pages of the Link can see, our units are constantly out and about, enjoying the weather and the amenities and promoting the outdoors experience to one and all, well done to all and thank you for your boundless energy and your volunteering spirit. Now as the days grow longer and the weather improves, many of you will be organising hikes (some for their Chief Commissioner Award!) and camps, so stay safe and snaphappy and send us in some photos of your adventures! Finally, just a reminder that we had launched a special celebration 90th Birthday Badge that you can earn, so anyone struggling for a few ideas coming towards the end of the year, maybe have a look there for some inspiration. And don’t forget our Summer Challenge Badge, it’s another source of meeting ideas and a great way to keep the girls engaged with CGI throughout their summer break. Yours in Guiding, Michelle Finnerty National Commissioner for Communications pr@girlguidesireland.ie
AROUND IRELAND SOUTH WEST REGION St Vincent Indoor Camp St. Vincent’s Brigini along with leaders Yasmin, Caroline and Eileen had their first indoor camp at Kilcully in March. One of the highlights of the weekend was the campfire at which Brigini Holly and Allieah were enrolled. The girls really enjoyed their first overnight and are already looking forward to the next.
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South West Region leads the way at the Cork St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Members of St. Bernadette’s and St. Brendan’s units, North
Model of Shandon Clock Tower, Handcrafted by Guides
Lee Area, SWR, pictured with Bishop of Cork Rev. John Buckely
and Rangers of St. Theresa’s Unit, South Lee Area. Our
following the St. Patrick’s Day Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
SWR Headquarters nestles in the shadow of this iconic Cork buidling. Well done to all involved in bringing to life the theme of the 2019 Cork St. Patrick’s Day Parade “Stories of Cork”
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South West Region Thinking Day Event February 23rd 2019 On February 23rd a Thinking Day event was hosted for the entire South West region in Mahon Community Centre. The event was attended by roughly 10 Cygnet and Brigini companies from all over the South West region. The Cygnets and Brigini’s in attendance enjoyed a variety of activities including an international quiz which included questions about cultures and foods around the world to name just a few, singing songs and arts and crafts. We also celebrated the organisation’s 90th birthday, where we enjoyed a wonderful cake made in the shape of 90 by Norma Lombard, Brigini Leader from St. Theresae’s Passage West, and also everyone in attendance participated in a large arts and crafts project where everyone painted a hand print on a giant 90 poster. Everyone in attendance also made a donation to the WAGGGS World Thinking Day Fund and enjoyed the day and activities, as well as the delicious cake! Thanks again to St. Ursula’s Brigini Company for hosting the event.
EASTERN REGION Communications Cup The Eastern Region held their Communications Cup in January and it was great to see how passionately the girls spoke on the topics that were important to them. The Brigini Communication Cup winners were 1st - Buion Naomh Pol (team 2) 2nd - Buion Mhuire na nDolas 3rd - Buion Naomh Brid (team 2) The junior Guide Communications Cup winners were 1st - Lara Kehoe (Buion Naomh Pol) 2nd - Matilda Finnerty (Buion Naomh Bríd) 3rd - Tori Awotunde (Buion Mhuire na nDolas) While the senior Guide winners were 1st - Eva McPartland (Buion Francis Taylor) 2nd - Tess Hennessy (Buion Francis Taylor) 3rd - Alanna Hickey (Buion Naomh Pol)
Campfire Cup The Eastern Region also held their Campfire Cup in March, Congratulations to all who took part and the winners were Buion Columbanus Guide Unit (Loughlinstown)
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Eastern Region Birthday / Thinking Day Event Over 300 members of the Eastern Region attended our birthday Celebration / Thinking Day event in Funtasia on 23rd February. The girls enjoyed a variety of activities including the water park, crazy golf, bowling and for the really adventurous the high rope walk. Everyone had a great time and all went home with a birthday cupcake to enjoy.
Buion Naomh Pol
'Buion Imelda Dun Laoghaire
Buion Naomh Pรณl Brigini Greenhills recently celebrated women from around the world and through the ages at their meeting. The girls dressed up as inspirational women who they admired. We had women from science, political activism, showbiz, education, literature, and 1 Brigin dressed up as her mam! Each brigin told us why they chose the particular women in history as their inspiration, detailing what difference the women had made to society. It was a hugely enjoyable and educational meeting
'Buion Imelda Dun Laoghaire, Eastern Region on a recent hike to Malahide Castle the kids had a brilliant day'.
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Joint Unit Camp In April Buion Naomh Brid from Rathnew, along with Buion Caithriona and Buion Marc both from Tallaght, all went on a joint camp to Carne Holiday Centre. Brigini, Guides and Rangers from the three groups had a weekend of fun and activities at their Colour-themed camp. Friday night, once everyone had arrived, sorted out their rooms and had dinner, we went for a short walk along the beach and out the pier. One of the leaders was pretty sure she spotted a shark in the sea! Now some of the Brigini didn’t believe us when we told them it was only a joke and so the only logical thing we could do at that stage was to all sing Baby Shark to let them know we’re not scared! This turned into a bit of an impromptu campfire session at the end of the pier, in the freezing cold. Back at the house we had some hot chocolate and cookies and a bit of crafting before heading to bed. Saturday was a jam-packed day, we had lots of different “colour” crafts, like screen printing our own t-shirts; designing and decorating tote bags; some crayon silhouette canvas art; decorating mugs to bring home; making Easter bonnets and more! We also had some outdoor games with lots of colourful game sets, and we watched some kite surfers as we spent time on the beach, some brave souls even went for a paddle. Our Guides and Rangers took off on their hike in the afternoon and the CCA girls were delighted to have their hike section completed. After dinner we split up into two sections; Brigini went outdoors for some tag, hide and seek and other games to run off some of their energy while the Guides and Rangers stayed inside and had a game of Cluedo organised by Gisele, it took a while for everyone to understand the rules, but once they got going their competitive edge came out. After all of that we had a quiz, followed by an indoor campfire session because unfortunately the wind and rain had really picked up at that stage. Sunday morning unfortunately was no better in the weather department which meant we had to hastily change our activities. After breakfast we had our colour-themed Guides’ Own which gave the leaders a little revenge; we read a native American story about the colours of the rainbow and the rain and when the rain came down, all our leaders were equipped with a glass of water and so it rained indoors in Carne on the girls too. Next up was our Easter bonnet parade, with prizes for the best bonnet, the best catwalk strut, and a special prize for the most graceful fall. Next, we had our prize-giving and as we couldn’t do our Easter Egg Hunt outdoors we included that in prize-giving too. Everyone went home with a new bag full of swag they had made, won and collected over the weekend and a smile on their face, though many of those faces were actually struggling to stay awake, and the buses were much quieter on the way home than on the way down. All in all, a very successful weekend and we’ll all be back to Carne again.
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Cecilia Browne - Dedication Cecilia Browne was a lot of things - a Mother, a Wife, a Guider but most importantly, Cecilia was extraordinary. Cecilia’s work in the guides was boundless in her 68 years (1949-2017). For almost 60 years she committed herself to the CGI, living her life through the principles of guiding - A Guide is honest, a Guide is loyal, a Guide is a friend to all. She progressed in her guiding journey, becoming District Commissioner, helping set up several units around the Raheny area. It was then she found her home, as a leader in her local unit “Buion an Leanbh Prague”. Cecilia’s hard work and loyalty to the CGI, rewarded her several positions on the National Executive Board before she finally became Chief Commissioner of the organisation. She held this position proudly in the last few years of her life. On Saturday 9th February, we remembered Cecilia for her achievements and for the wonderful woman she was. We started the day with a remembrance walk for Cecilia along the Pink loop of the Raheny way, with the Cygents (5-6yrs) Brigins (7-10yrs), Guides (10-14 yrs) and the leaders. Then we ended up outside Ulster Bank Raheny, where a flower bed had been dedicated and a plaque erected in memory of Cecilia. A poem by June Cooke was read out beautifully, and Lily Moreau also read a poem, as we looked upon young Guides planting Cyclamen's. Cecilia's family; husband Andy Browne, daughters Yvonne and Louise Browne and grandson Fionn, also planted a Cyclamen together. Then after the planting ceremony a coffee morning was held in aid of the "Irish Heart Foundation" in the Cara Hall. Several past members and life long friends of Cecilia's through Guides also attended which as lovely to see. Andy Browne had arranged a wonderful array of photographs of Cecilia's life in Guiding. With the help of the wonderful leaders in Raheny Guides and the kind contributions of guides of all ages and their families, €300 was raised. The day would not have been possible if not for the help of all the Raheny Guide leaders, “Raheny Tidy Towns” and June Cooke from the Cara Hall. It was a day filled with joy, happiness and guiding spirit as we remembered together. As we all fondly remembered Cecilia, it was hard to imagine she wasn’t there with us, saluting us all with the guide promise.
SOUTH EAST REGION Clonard Unit Enrolment and 40th celebration. Clonard had a busy month of March. We had our enrolment at the start of the month. We had 3 new leaders enrolled. Sadhbh joined Clonard as a Cygnet a few years ago and is now proud to be a leader in the unit where she grew up. She hasn't changed a bit. She always had a big smile! We had 5 Cygnets, 9 Brigins and 9 Guides enrolled this year along with the 3 leaders. Clonard Brigins are celebrating their 40th birthday this year so we had a big birthday party inviting all the Brigins in the region. All the kids had a great day. We planted a tree in the church grounds and buried a time capsule in the unit garden with a letter to future leaders, some old photos and a copy of an article that was in the local paper about the unit. The girls all had a great time playing together on the bouncy castle, giant connect four and doing the limbo. They all went home tired but on a sugar high cause what's a party without jelly and ice cream and chocolate! Don't we just love sending them home like that!!!
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GARDA VETTING National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012 to 2016
IT IS ILLEGAL
to volunteer with children before Garda Vetting has been confirmed by the National Vetting Bureau.
Proof of Identity and Confirmation of the current address are required BEFORE the vetting process can commence. Therefore, photocopies of these documents must accompany all applications sent to the National Office. Any application submitted to the National Office without these documents will be returned to the applicant. Applications made by anyone under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by form NVB 3 Parent/ Guardian Consent Form.
Garda Vetting Forms are available on the CGI Website or from the National Office
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CONTACTS NEB Chief Commissioner National Secretary National Treasurer Cygnets Brigíní Guides Rangers International Communications Development Training Outdoor South-Western Region Eastern Region South-Eastern Region Northern Region North-Eastern Region
chiefcommissioner@girlguidesireland.ie secretary@girlguidesireland.ie treasurer@girlguidesireland.ie cygnets@girlguidesireland.ie brigíní@girlguidesireland.ie guides@girlguidesireland.ie rangers@girlguidesireland.ie international@girlguidesireland.ie pr@girlguidesireland.ie development@girlguidesireland.ie training@girlguidesireland.ie outdoor@girlguidesireland.ie s.west@girlguidesireland.ie eastern@girlguidesireland.ie s.east@girlguidesireland.ie admin.nr@catholicguides.org.uk n.east@girlguidesireland.ie
Child Protection Eastern Region 086 2710953 Clare O’Brien South-Western Region Alison Tanner-Howe Maria Dowling South-Eastern Region Barbara Ryan Aideen Moran Northern Region Josephine Higgins Martha Mc Grath Sarah Mc Manus Maire Mc Grath
086 2710941 086 2710950 086 2710958 086 2710952
07581644947 07581644899 07581645481 07581639739
Staff Nicola Toughey National Office Coordinator Antoinette Hosback Finance Officer Erinn Dunlea Administrative Assistant Eoin Hamilton Communications Administrator
nicola@girlguidesireland.ie finance@girlguidesireland.ie admin@girlguidesireland.ie communications@girlguidesireland.ie
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CGI National Office 12 Clanwilliam Terrace, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 661 9566 • Fax: (01) 676 5691 Email: admin@girlguidesireland.ie CGI Northern Region Office St. Francis De Sales, 55 Beechmount Drive, Belfast BT12 7LU Tel: 028 9031 3639 Email: admin.nr@catholicguides.org.uk www.girlguidesireland.ie Charity Number: CHY 7958 Reg. Charity Number: 20018689
Funded by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and the National Lottery.