Guiders Link Vol3 2019

ZOO DAY

PLUS: National Camp Rep Report

2019 Vol. 3

Guider’s Link

Contents Chief Commissioner's Message 3 Noticeboard 4 Zoo Day 6 Health Promotion 12 Development 14 Cygnet Section 16 BrigĂ­n Section 18 Guide Section 20 Ranger Section 22 Training 24 International 26 World Anti Bullying Forum 30 Cork Summer Show 31 National Camp 34 CGI Arklow Celebrations 46 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 30th September 2019 2 Guiders Link Vol. 3

Chief Commissioner's Message Hello everyone, Welcome back to another wonderful year of Guiding, I hope you enjoyed your summer and if you were on summer camp you had a fabulous time.

Summer camp to me is what Guiding is all about and it’s definitely the highlight of my Guiding year.

While we are talking about camps I have to reflect on this year’s National Guide and Ranger camp which was held in the IOAC in Wexford. What a fabulous camp. Well done to Arlene and all of the Guiders who planned, participated and worked on the camp. It was great for me to get a chance to speak to so many of you and we also showcased Guiding at its very best. The compliments we received from the IOAC about the Guides, Rangers and Guiders were a pleasure to hear and they are looking forward to having us back again. So after completing camp have you started on the rest of your Silver Outdoor award?

Silver: take part in 5 outdoor activities with your company or unit, to achieve silver you must take part in a community event and also participate in a weekend outdoor camp. (Must be minimum two night’s duration).

• Rangers – you are 6 outdoor activities.

You have completed the 2 nights camping and at least 3 outdoor activities so look back on what you have done and maybe all you need to do is complete your community event. We look forward to seeing photos of you all receiving your silver award.

Guiders – do you know there is an award for you too?

Look it up in the Outdoors section of the website.

There is also a Special Unit Award and I think from seeing all the activities that you all take part in that there are several of you eligible to apply for this who haven’t applied. Again, it’s in the outdoors section of the website.

So, as we start back to a new year of Guiding remember to ensure all your OGM details are up to date, that you have all of your Guiders details including their training up to date. If you have received a request from the National Office or the Northern Region Office to engage in re-vetting, please do so immediately as it is the law and imperative we keep all of our vetting and safe guarding training up to date. While I am mentioning training if you have any courses that you would like to see us running please ensure you let Eilish our Training Commissioner know the details.

Also do you fancy developing your own skills, if so talk to us about it, we are always looking for people to join training teams both at National and Regional level?

Following on from our last Board I was delighted that we co-opted Michelle Finnerty to the position of Assistant Chief Commissioner, Eileen, Brenda and I are delighted to have Michelle on the National Officer team and we are looking forward to our annual meeting in August.

Many thanks to the strategic planning team who have been giving up their time over the summer to work on the upcoming Strategic Plan, we will have more details for you by the next Guiders Link.

I for some reason thought this summer would be quiet but next week I head off on my own summer camp and then at the end of August I join Suzanne, Michelle and Trish along with our friends from IGG to travel to the European Guide and Scout Conference. So, keep an eye on social media, you know us four quiet reserved ladies we won’t let you know what we are at every minute of the day.

Hope all the CCA girls are putting the finishing touches to your projects and we look forward to seeing you all at interview stage, plenty of reading ahead for the CCA team.

Ladies this is your magazine, your Guiders Link so please ensure you send us in plenty of articles and photos, if they don’t make their way into the Guiders Link they will make their way to the newsletter and if you can get into the local press all the better. Make sure the world knows what CGI is at.

I love the growing Guiding challenge on Facebook, all of the photos are brilliant and some of them are so nostalgic. But the one thing it is showing me is that Guiding is growing and if we inspire the next generation of young women the same as the photos show we have inspired the last generation we are definitely doing something right. Apart from enjoying everyone else’s photos I have been delving back through a lot of my own photos and am so grateful for all the fabulous people I have met through Guiding and the long-lasting friendships I have made. So, this is what we need to sell to promote Guiding, sell the fun, the madness (in the right way) and the incredible friendships that you will make along the way, this is GUIDING. Yours in Guiding, Emily McCann Chief Commissioner chiefcommissioner@girlguidesireland.ie

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Noticeboard Upcoming National Events Ventact

6th-8th September

NEB Residential

14th-15th September

CCA Projects Closing Date Unit Leader Training CCA Interviews National Ranger Weekend Registration Due NEB

27th September 19th October Throughout November 1st-3rd November 15th November 23rd November

Resource Dates International Friendship Day

August 4th

International Day of Charity

September 5th

International Chocolate Day

September 13th

International Day of Peace

September 21st

World Mental Health Day International Day of the Girl Child

October 10th

RE GIS NO TR

VE ATIO MB N ER 201 15 9 TH

October 11th

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News From The Board •

Michelle Finnerty co-opted to the role of Assistant Chief Commissioner.

• Reminder that two signatories are required on all Unit cheques and when sending payment to the National Office, cheques must be made payable to ‘Catholic Guides of Ireland’ and not ‘CGI’.

3rd Party Insurance As with previous years please note: The onus remains with the Guider to ensure that qualified instructors/leaders are present when organising any specialist activity for our members. All safety precautions must be taken in any routine activity.

Where activities are provided by specialist service providers or at Third Party activity centres, you should seek confirmation that they have Public Liability Insurance.

Reminders: onsibility of the he Guider in Charge to ensure e • When travelling outside of the island of Ireland, it is the responsibility that adequate travel/ health insurance is in place for all members of the group.

• Unit equipment including tents is not covered under the CGI Insurance Policy and it is the responsibility of each Unit to ensure adequate insurance is in place.

BANK TRANSFERS MADE TO NATIONAL When paying by bank transfer, please ensure that only REGISTRATION GOES INTO THE ACCOUNT ENDING 65 ALL OTHER PAYMENTS SHOULD BE PAID INTO THE ACCOUNT ENDING 36 If you are unsure, please contact the National Office Thank you for your cooperation Eileen Mc Carthy National Treasurer

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CGI

ALL SECTIONS

zoo day

2019 National Zoo Day this year was an important day for CGI, as it was the official ending of our 90th Birthday Celebrations.

Saturday 25th May dawned, and we were all hoping for weather a bit better than last time around in 2016. We weren’t disappointed as Saturday morning dawned, not so sunny but definitely not raining, and as the day wore on the weather continued to improve.

From 9.30am our team were at the gates of the zoo getting ready to welcome almost 1100 of our members in for a day filled with fun and laughter.

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As the groups arrived and registered, they each picked up their pack with the information for the different sections; we had activities planned for the girls to do, and we also had maps and timetables of feedings and talks throughout the day at the different enclosures.

On the registration table we also had the 90th birthday cake on display; it had some of the animals we were going to meet in the zoo on it and it was surrounded by our 90th birthday badge logo.

Johnny was on hand, as always, to take photos as everyone started off their day. We had balloons to spell out CGI Zoo Day 2019, held up by each unit as they registered and began their day. Johnny also popped up every now and then throughout the day to capture some candid shots of the girls, and leaders, having a wonderful day out.

When all our groups were finally through the gate – special mention here for the poor bus driver from Belfast who got lost – the units were free to spend the time as they wished around the zoo, completing their quizzes, questionnaires and challenges, and learning a little about the different animals at each of the talks..

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The playgrounds dotted around the zoo continue to be a major attraction for our younger members and quite a bit of time was spent in each of them by the different groups.

The Cygnets had a quiz to complete and that took quite a bit of time and brain power to do as they wound their way around the zoo. There was definitely plenty of help from their Guiders on this one, but that’s probably allowed!

The Brigini had some challenges to complete before they even got to the zoo, and we saw some wonderful masks coming through the gates as they got into the swing of things early. They also had challenges to complete after the trip and they had a Facebook page to upload their photos and challenges as they went along.

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The Guides and Rangers were delighted to be allowed bring their phones with them on a guiding trip, as it’s not usually the case, but this time around they needed them for photos and uploads to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram on the day. And excitingly, we did manage to get #cgizooday2019 trending on Twitter for a while.

As the day drew to a close everyone made their way to the Farm House to collect their gifts before heading home. Each attendee received a backpack, a snood and a badge. However, plenty of girls also stopped by the shop on their way out and many photos included new animal soft toys.

Some of our groups had long distances to travel, and so by 4.30pm we had all but left the zoo, tired and happy. The zoo staff were very complimentary about CGI afterwards, with this lovely sentiment from their Education Manager summing up their experience of us “Our volunteers who deliver on public engagement activities said the children were incredible and the interactions were some of the most positive they have ever had.” It’s always lovely to hear such nice things about the behaviour of our girls, and that’s a testament to the care and attention given by their leaders during the day, so thanks to you all for giving up yet more of your own time to make the day such a huge success.

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As we left the zoo only one question remained; everyone had seen the birthday cake as they came in and registered, but nobody had seen it after that, so what happened to it? The answer to the riddle is somewhat of an anti-climax; in all the drama and mayhem of getting the correct bags and boxes to each group as they left the zoo, the cake got left to one side and forgotten about in the melee. So, while it may not have been enjoyed by the girls, it was certainly enjoyed by someone at the end of the day.

A big thanks must go to Eoin, Nicola and Erinn in the office for all their hard work and for making sure that everything was ready for us and planned and organised correctly. And the final word of thanks goes to the team on the day; Emily, Trish, Michelle, Sarah and Annmarie, without you it just wouldn’t have happened, so thank you all.

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HEALTHY UNIT PROGRAMME

In 2020, the Health Promotion Team will be launching ‘CGI’s Healthy Unit Programme’ and we need your input.

In April 2019, CGI were awarded the Health Quality Mark – Gold Standard by the National Youth Council of Ireland.

This award is for every member of CGI, it is not just a plaque to hang on the wall in the National Office, so it is time for everyone in CGI to get involved and have their say and come up with ideas.

We want to give every Cygnet, Brigin, Guide, Ranger and Adult member the opportunity to have an input into ‘CGI’s Healthy Unit Programme’.

All suggestions will be acknowledged with a certificate.

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The Health Promotion Team will then meet and the best suggestions from each section will be used in the CGI’s Healthy Unit Programme. All contributions used in the programme will be entered into a draw by section and a prize awarded. There will also be an overall prize for the most unique contribution to the programme.

So here’s what to do: Ask your Cygnets, Brigini, Guides, Rangers and Adult members to come up with ideas for the CGI’s Healthy Unit Programme.

Send the suggestions to the National Office by post or email to nicola@girlguidesireland.ie Clearly state the name of the individual making the suggestion, the Unit and which section they are in.

The closing date for all entries is Friday 18th October 2019.

SAVE THE

DATE

HEALTH PROMOTION DAY FOR GUIDERS 12TH JANUARY 2020

Guides… It’s a healthy thing

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DEVELOPMENT STORROWS PROGRAMME What have we been up to?

National Youth Work Showcase! ... celebrating the value, diversity and vitality of youth work in Ireland today. On the 19th June, three members of the Storrows, Deirdre Wray, Caoimhe McNamara and Sarah Byrne represented CGI at the NYCI National Showcase 2019.

In attendance at the event was broadcaster & DJ Eoghan McDermott pictured here with Caoimhe McNamara, Katherine Zappone, T.D. and the Lord Mayer of Dublin, Councillor Paul McAuliffe, pictured with Deirdre Wray.

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Dublin Pride parade Members of the Storrows section joined Rangers and Guiders this year for Dublin Pride Parade on Saturday 29th June.

The Storrows took over the co-ordination of Pride Neckerchiefs and Woggles for all the Pride Parades. Some handy sewers among us have been super busy getting these ready for the parades- big thank you to those helpers!!

An Ă“ige & Catholic Guides of Ireland Youth Travel Campaign Six members of the Storrows, Deirdre Wray, Caoimhe McNamara (Dublin), Linda Gleeson (Cork), Shauna Whelan Buckley, Megan Dempsey and Sarah Byrne (Wexford) have been given the opportunity by Our Chief Commissioner Emily to partake in this campaign on the 23rd to 25th of August, 2019 in Killarney. They will provide social media content during their stay including pictures, videos and other social media posts. This content can be across social media platforms Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A blog post detailing their trip including what they saw, how they got there and details on the local area.

are you??

Moving away from home to start college for the first time in the autumn?

Relocating from home with your job?

Why not stay in touch!?

We have members in all Regions, who would be delighted to meet up with you! Or perhaps if you wish to keep involved working with a unit, we can check that out to see if there is a unit near you!

Contact us at storrows@girlguidesireland.ie or development@girlguidesireland.ie

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Cygnets Autumn Scavenger Hunt Go on a walk in your local area or park and see if you can find: •

A feather

• Something beginning with C •

A white flower

•

4 different leaves

• Something coloured red •

A rock or stone with different colours in it

•

A seed

•

A twig with a bend in it

Fridge Magnet Insects What you need: •

Coloured sheets of craft foam

• Scissors • Glue •

Googly eyes (small)

• Magnet What to do: 1.

2.

Have fun placing all the parts together to create different bugs: butterfly, ladybird, worm, etc.

3. Once you have pieced

together an insect,

attach all the parts

with the glue.

4.

Cut out different small shapes from 5.

the craft foam: circles, ovals, triangles, etc.

Attach googly eyes.

Glue the magnet on the back of your bug.

Healthy Halloween Treats You will need: • Bananas •

Chocolate Chips

• Satsumas •

Apple or cucumber for stalk

• Plate •

Knife

What to do: 1.

Cut the bananas in half and stand them on the flat end 2.

Using the chocolate chips add eyes and mouths

3.

For the Oranges first peel the outer skin off

4.

cut up the apple/cucumber into stalks and add to the top

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Welcome aboard the Halloween Bus, fasten your seat belts.

The bats on the bus go, EEK, EEK, EEK EEK, EEK, EEK, EEK, EEK, EEK The bats on the bus go, EEK, EEK, EEK Halloween is here.

The ghosts on the bus go, up and down Up and down, up and down The ghosts on the bus go, up and down Halloween is here.

The children on the bus say, trick or treat Trick or treat, trick or treat The children on the bus say, trick or treat Halloween is here.

The witches on the bus say, HEE, HEE, HEE HEE, HEE, HEE, HEE, HEE, HEE The witches on the bus say, HEE, HEE, HEE Halloween is here.

CYGNET SUPPORT TEAM Anyone who would like to join our cygnet support team, we would be grateful for your expertise and ideas. From ideas, badges and organising of events, no matter how big or small, your time and support would be greatly appreciated. We provide fun and laughter in our group chats. Please contact cygnets@ girlguidesireland.ie.

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Brigíní Hi All, Hope you all had a fantastic summer and enjoyed getting out and about.

My first edition for the Guider’s Link is all about ‘Making New Friends and Keep the old’. As we begin our new Guiding year it’s important to welcome our new members to Brigins and remember our old Brigin friends who may have ‘Linked up’ to Guides, invite them back to share what they have been up to in Guides.

Here’s to a great new Guiding year, be creative, have fun and remember to enjoy! #Girlguidememories Don’t forget to share your experiences with everyone to showcase the great work you do!

Yvonne Murphy National Commissioner for Brigin Guides

ICE BREAKERS How To Play Mix & Meet (This game can also be done with toilet roll (1 sheet = 1 fact), coloured lollipop sticks, coloured card, even crayons) Get each person to grab some M&M's. Tell them not to eat them.

Assign a different meaning to each colour: Blue = family Green = school Yellow = friends Red = hobbies Brown = music/movies However many M&Ms they have in their hands, that is how many facts they have to tell. For example, if they have three blue, they would have to say three facts about their family.

Hey, Me Too! Get the Brigins to stand and form a circle. Choose one Brigin to start in the middle.

Ask each Brigin that when in the middle, she should introduce herself to the rest of the girls and then say something about herself.

GAMES

Any Brigins in the circle who shares in common the statement made by the girl in the middle must yell, “Hey, me too!” and leave her spot in the circle, give a high five to someone in the middle and run to find a different spot. The last person to find a spot is in the middle.

Catch Me If You Can The group is divided into two and then asked to face one another in two lines.

The groups are given approximately one minute to look at the opposing team, taking in all details about the individuals in the other group.

The two lines turn and face away from the centre. Each group has a minute to change things (total # of changes determined by the Guider about their appearance (i.e., change a watch to a different wrist, unbutton a button, etc.) The changes must be discrete but visible.

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The players again turn in to face each other to discover the physical changes that have been made. The team who discovers the most wins.

Balloon Juggle-and-Sort In groups, each group keeps the inflated balloons (1+ per person) in the air. This gets the group moving and cooperating.

Once they’ve got the hang of it, make it harder by adding in more balloons or placing restrictions (e.g. no hands to keep balloons up.)

FRIENDSHIP KNOT

nd rie

Friendship Badge (available from the National Office) • Learn 5 things about someone in your Brigin Company that you don’t know very well g a good f ein • Make a compliment box • Take part in Bring a friend night • Make a friendship book photo collage • Take a selfie with a new Brigin friend • Make a friendship bracelet and give it to a new friend • Tell a friend who is not a member of Guiding about Brigins • Do a Secret good turn for a friend For b

Friendship Knots are tied in neckerchiefs and is a sign of friendship of Guiding

BADGE LINK

CAMPFIRE SONG Let’s be friends and share a song.

Let’s be friends and dance along.

Hold my hand we’ll skip and play.

Let’s put sparkle in our day.

- by Beth Howell This is an action song. Have the girls do the following movements as they sing it: Form a double circle of couples: the inside circle stands with backs to centre, facing their partners.

Each girl shakes her partner's left hand.

Taking their partner's two hands, the girls slide-step around the circle.

The girls drop hands and bow to their partner.

The outside circle moves clockwise to the next partner and repeats the dance.

New Brigin Programme and Badges Update Over the summer a lot of work has been done to get the new Brigin Programme ready. Fingers crossed it will be ready to launch this guiding year.

The Brigin Badges are getting an update. Some badges will look the same, with some getting a new design, all having a new criteria. There will be some new badges to add to the mix.

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Guides For something different this issue of the Link we thought we’d concentrate on the outdoors, and give you some outdoor games ideas to play with your Guides. Outdoor games are a great way to keep the girls active and entertained, and when the weather is fine there’s no reason not to take advantage, so here are a few suggestions you might like to try at your next meeting, or even on a camp: This game is most fun when played with a large group.

e h t e r u t p a C Flag

Split the group into two teams, each team having a flag or other marker at the team’s base. The object of the game is to run into the other team’s territory, capture their flag and make it safely back to your own territory.

You can tag “enemy” players in your territory, sending them to your jail. They can be sprung from jail by a member of their own team running into your territory, tagging them and running back, with one freed person allowed per jail break. It is sometimes played that all the people in jail could hold hands and make a chain back toward their own territory, making it easier for members of their team to tag them.

Number of Players: A large group.

Equipment: Two flags or other markers You can also play a similar game called Steal the Sticks. It had almost the same rules, but several sticks were used instead of one flag.

mole patrol This is a game for camp or for evening meetings, when it’s twilight but not quite dark. Play this game in a large field or playground, somewhere with lots of room for the girls to spread out.

Blindfold one player (the Mole) who will stand in the middle of the field, holding a flashlight that is turned off. One other player stands with her and acts as her assistant (this is a great game for inclusion purposes, sometimes we have girls that may be more comfortable working as a pair in this way).

The other players all form a large circle around the edge of the field or yard, and on a whistle signal from the leader begin to step toward the Mole as quietly as they can. As soon as the Mole hears a noise, she aims her flashlight in the direction of the sound, turns it on and shouts “Freeze!” All of the players must stop at this point. The Mole’s assistant checks to see if there are any players standing directly in the ray of light, anyone that is caught is out of the game. The remaining players continue walking towards the Mole, and the first one to touch her is the winner. The Mole may call “Freeze” as often as she hears something. A variation on the game allows the Mole to shout “Stop” as well, but when she shouts “Stop” the girls must ignore her, if anyone does stop, they are out at this stage. When she shouts “Stop” it’s up to her assistant to catch anyone who did stop and is consequently out.

The Mole cannot swing or wave the torch around, it should be held facing the ground and when she shouts “Freeze” she should simply lift her arm up in a straight line, not waving it around.

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This is a variation on Ship/Shore/Sea, but it’s a little more active and involved for the older girls. The game is excellent for a competitive group of girls, it also tires everyone out really quickly, bonus!

You can either choose a girl to be Captain, or a Guider can take on this role.

You can also play where the last one to do an action is out, or you can simply play till exhaustion hits them all.

Actions:

&$37$,16

25'(56

Man Overboard: Players have to drop to the floor into planking position till next action is called.

Captain's Coming: Players must stand at attention and salute the 'captain'.

Starboard / Port: Players must run to the Right/Left designated side of the room.

Scrub The Deck: Players must squat on the ground and scrub the deck.

Climb The Rigging: Players must stand up and pretend to climb the rigging.

Man The Lifeboats: The girls must work in a team of three for this one; two must sit opposite each other, forming a rowboat with their legs, and the person in the middle rows the boat.

Find North: Again, working in a team of three, the girls must decide which direction North is and all point in the same direction.

Titanic: Two girls pair up, one kneels down and holds the other at her knees while she sticks her arms out imitating the iconic scene from the movie "Titanic".

Find the Island/Ship Sunk: Everyone must jump up onto a chair, or rock, the grass (style points should be given for anyone jumping on the back of another girl) Beached Whale: All lay on the ground and flap about like a beached whale.

Mermaid: Sit on the ground and pretend to comb their hair.

Crow’s Nest: Again, in a team of three, they must link arms in a circle, all facing outwards.

Captain’s Table: This time the team must stand in a circle pretending to be around a table, eating.

Arm Yer'Self: The players have to stick one arm straight out like it's a sword and say "Aarrrgghh!”

Shark Attack: Make a fin above your head.

Polly Want a Cracker: The girls must flap their arms like a bird and squawk Lost Me Wooden Leg: The girls must hop around on one foot.

Sink or Swim: This one can be used when the girls are tiring, if they choose to Sink, they’re out of the game, or Swim to continue playing.

Walk the Plank: Two players pair up. One stands with their arms behind their back as if handcuffed, while the other stands behind them and prods them off the imaginary plank.

X Marks the Spot: Again, for the team of three. Two huddle together and look at a map, the other player lies down with arms and legs out wide in the shape of an X. And finally, Mutiny: When the caller has had enough and wants to switch out. When Mutiny is called, the first person to jump up and down with their hands in the air is the new Captain.

And so, the game continues…

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Rangers ZOO DAY PHOTO WINNERS

There were plenty of photos taken at our All Sections Day in the Zoo so there was a lot of judging that needed to be done! Here are your winners: Winner of the funniest photo: Lea Brennan, Buion Imelda, Eastern Region Winner of the most photos taken with the animals: Sarah Ellen Thompson and Lea Brennan, Buion Imelda, Eastern Region Winner of the most re-tweets: Amelia Finnerty, Johanna Murphy, Emma Carter, Catherine Moyseyeva, Macy O’Neill, Katelyn Byrne, Hannah Fielding Buion Naomh Brid, Eastern Region

SAVE THE DATE

National Ranger Weekend Castle Saunderson 1st -3rd November 2019 22 Guiders Link Vol. 3

Ranger DAY

During National Camp the Rangers attending went off on their own adventures on the Saturday here are some of their thoughts on the day: I really enjoyed the trip to Shielbaggan. I really liked the rock climbing and indoor cave. I love the water. I would definitely do it again. The staff were kind and funny.

• Zoe McEntegart, Buion Naomh Iosaf We’re Emma and Rebecca and we are Rangers in Summerhill Guides. We attended the National Guide and Ranger camp 2019 in the IOAC. We arrived on Friday night and attended a lively campfire with all our camp mates.

Although we woke up from thunder early in the morning, we still managed to be ready for the day off site . All our activities were at Shielbaggan and we thoroughly enjoyed our activities. We took part in coasteering, archery, caving and rock climbing. When we arrived back at the campsite we had a lovely warm shower and got ready for the Festival Disco. Sunday morning, we got up early for breakfast took down our tent, helped the others and made our way home. Overall we loved this camp, the accommodation, activities and the atmosphere really made this camp for us.

Emma Walsh and Rebecca Murphy from Summerhill Guides I really enjoyed the water activities and the climbing.

Buion Padraig Today was gas and great fun. It pushed us to do things we wouldn’t usually do, and made friends while doing it.

• Sophie, Emma, Tara, Sarah and Aoife, Buion Naomh Pol I had a great time yesterday. Shielbaggan was a great trip out. The instructors couldn’t have been nicer. They were funny, kind and helpful. The activities were amazing especially the coasteering. My favourite part was the cliff jump whilst doing coasteering. The land activities were brilliant as well. Overall it was a great day out and would definitely recommend it.

• Holy Lewis, Buion Maria Reparatrice & Colmcille I enjoyed archery, rock climbing and the caves. I didn’t do the water activities but I had fun watching.

Buion Padraig I had a good day. I liked James. I liked the water activities and archery.

Buion Padraig I had a really good day yesterday. I watched everyone doing the water activities. I got a bullseye on my first go in the archery. The caves were my favourite because of the ball pit. I tried the climbing wall even though I’m scared of heights. And lastly all the people were so nice.

Buion Padraig We thought the trip was really good. Coasteering was so much fun and exciting. The staff were lovely and friendly. All the activities were very good.

Claire Farrell, Lauren Farrell, Sarah-Ann Troy. Shauna Reynolds, Buion Choca Naofa,

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Training I hope everyone has been enjoying their well- deserved summer break and all your batteries are suitably recharged! I hate to break it to you all but September is fast approaching and I wanted to remind you of a few ways to make your lives as Guiders a little less stressful .

The key to everything running a wee bit more smoothly is Planning. At the beginning of the new Guiding year, sit down with the rest of your leaders and brainstorm every idea you can think off- no matter how “un-doable” they may seem at first. Speak to your Brigins, Guides or Rangers as well as your Patrol leaders- give them all a Post-It and ask them to write down everything they’d like to do in their meetings this year. Stick them all on an ideas wall or poster no matter how outlandish they might seem. You’d be amazed at how creative the girls can be. If you do this you will not only have a bank of ideas but you’ll also be running programmes that the girls will be interested in.

OTHER SOURCES OF IDEAS FOR PLANNING •

CHOICES Programme

• Seasons

• Television

• Books

•

• Internet

Places of Interest

• Training Courses

•

• Imagination

• Online Guide Manager (OGM)

•

•

Girls themselves

Guider’s Link District/Area Meetings

• Other Leaders From your yearly planner, take a theme and complete your monthly planner. After that it is easy to write out your weekly planner and share the responsibilities among all the leaders.

If you don’t already run a patrol system in your section, I really urge you to start one this year. As well as helping take some of the responsibilities off you, having patrol leaders will help with discipline , meetings will run much smoother and you’ll be giving the girls some responsibility which will prepare them for life outside of Guides AND Yes that does exist for some !!

Responsibilities of a PL • Shows good example •

Promotes team spirit

• Takes ownership of the patrol •

Liaises with leaders

• Supports APL • Trains members of the patrol •

Delegates roles and responsibilities

•

Responsible for discipline

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Responsibilities of an APL •

Assists the PL

•

Undertakes duties from PL

•

Acts as PL in her absence

• Encourage all patrol members

By October I hope to have the Guider Training – Step 3 projects on CGI’s website. Please take the time to check out the fabulous work produced by the Guider Training – Step 3 participants. They contain many great ideas not only for the girls but for the Guiders as well.

As far as courses are concerned, the training team will continue to update and streamline existing courses taking course evaluations into consideration.

We appreciate that one group has been neglected of late and that is the Unit Leaders. We are at present devising an updated course for all Unit Leaders to be rolled out early in the new guiding year. All Unit Leaders will be contacted with details of the course.

Have a great guiding year and I hope as many of you as possible attend the courses being offered . Don’t forget EVERY guider is expected to attend Guider Training – Step 1 and CPA training. I will be contacting any guider who has not.

Yours in Guiding Eilish Smyth National Commissioner for Training

SAVE DATE UNIT LEADER TRAINING SAT 19TH OCTOBER www.girlguidesireland.ie 25

International Hi Hope everyone had a great summer and managed to get some rest.

It’s hard to believe we’re ready to start a new Guiding year. Keep your eye on the Guiders Linkthroughout the year as we will have lots of exciting ideas to help you include international in your programme.

If you are looking to go abroad with your girls next summer do not hesitate to contact me as we get lots of invites to various events around Europe and even further afield which might interest you.

Suzanne Lenihan International Commissioner international@girlguidesireland.ie

Events for adults: Would you like to represent CGI at an international event?

Why not take part in one of the below?

For more info on any of these events contact Suzanne on international@girlguidesireland.ie

The overture diversity network is an informal network of scouts and guides in the Europe region who are working on diversity in their respective associations.

The next meeting of the Overture Diversity Network meeting will take place in Oslo (Norway) from 15th-17th November 2019. And is hosted by Norges Speiderforbund (NSF). The steering group and hosting team have planned a great weekend including topics on mental health and wellbeing, LGBT+, exploring values and many other exciting topics. The meeting will be an opportunity to meet open-and like-minded Guides and Scouts working in this area across the European Region. The meeting is planned to start at 12.00 noon on Friday 15th November and it will end at 12.00 noon on Sunday 17th November. Please be aware that the venue is about 2 hours away from the Oslo airport Gardermoen/1 hour from Oslo central station, with public transport. The meeting will take place in Strandheim leir. Following the event you will be required to work on a project for CGI in an area of interest to you discussed at the event.

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THE ACADEMY 2019 2-7 NOVEMBER 2019 BLED, SLOVENIA

The next meeting of the academy will take place in Bled, Slovenia, from 2 to 7 November 2019.

Participants are called to bring their added value and share with other participants from all over Europe their vision on key topics including: • External relations in Europe • Communications • Non-formal education and training • Strategy for growth.

The aim of the Academy 2019 is to allow Member Organisations to find innovative tailored solutions to the diverse needs Scout and Guide associations are facing in Europe. The event will be designed to empower young people and youth workers around the four main topics listed above. Participants will be able to gather knowledge and competencies in the field most compatible to the needs of their association by choosing specific activities proposed by the event organisers. Moreover, a team of experts will deliver sessions to fulfil the participants’ learning experience with high quality content. After the event you will be required to carry out a project for CGI on one of the topics above.

This is the last and final call to attend this amazing event as an international support team member. To be an IST member you will be at least 18 years old on the 27th July 2020.

Do you have an interest in international Scouting and Guiding and in other countries and cultures. Well then this is perfect event for you. If you can answer yes to the following questions then why not enjoy the experience of a lifetime next summer!

• can work in a team?

• are committed to making the Jamboree happen, whatever role you are asked to do?

• have experience of camping and basic Guiding skills?

• have skills and experience that will be useful at the Jamboree, whether in supporting the delivery of programme or services?

• are flexible, adaptable and positive and want to make the most of this unique experience?

Cost of the event is €550 which does not include travel. This will be arranged separately. This cost includes training weekend in Ireland before the event (13-15th of September 2019), camp few, travel to and from campsite and Gdansk airport, overnight in Gdansk after event and contingent uniform.

All IST bookings must be made by 10th of September at the very latest. For more information please contact our Eurojam rep Marie Denham on international@girlguidesireland.ie

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INVITATION TO QUEST 2020 26th July - 1st August 2020 WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN US AT QUEST 2020?

Hundreds of Guides from across Oxfordshire and from around the world will arrive in the Oxfordshire countryside on the 26th July and stay until the 1st August 2020 for a camp of fun, discovery and adventure. We’d love to welcome you too.

WHAT TO EXPECT? The camp will include a range of adventurous, creative and cultural activities, as well as opportunities to meet new friends from around the world. From the moment you arrive to the final farewell, being part of Quest 2020 will give you an opportunity to try out new adventures, make new friends and create memories to last a lifetime.

WHAT HELP CAN WE OFFER YOU? We offer advice and support with visa requirements, bookings and transport arrangements in the UK to and from Quest; as well as finding opportunities to extend your stay. We will ‘buddy’ your group with a local unit in advance which will enable you to communicate with them beforehand, ask any questions and give you a feel for what your time in the UK will be like. Both your buddy unit and the county International advisor will communicate with you before the event to ensure your needs are met. You may have to contribute to extra costs, such as equipment hire but can arrive knowing it is all ready for you! For international staff and units, equipment hire is available if required.

WHO CAN ATTEND? Quest is open to all member Girl Scout and Girl Guide associations registered with WOSM or WAGGGS outside of the UK. Participants must be aged 10 to 17 years of age. Those aged 18 or over can attend as unit leaders (if they have the appropriate qualification) or join our staff team.

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WHAT DOES IT COST? Participant fees will cost £185 which includes transport from Oxford train station to and from the Quest camp site. You will need to arrange your own transport/flights to and from the UK and from the airport to Oxford. We can help you in sending you details of trains and buses from the airports to Oxford as needed. Participant fees will include a neckerchief, t-shirt, goodie bag and all food and activities during the camp.

WHERE? Quest 2020 is held at St Hugh’s school only 15 miles outside of Oxford. With access to Oxford and London and all major airports via the M40 and M25, our camp is easily accessible to visitors from near and far. To consider your transport, take a look at our location of St Hugh’s School SN7 8PT. The site is the grounds of a school, but for the week of Quest it is alive with tents, laughter and fun.

WHEN CAN YOU REGISTER? International units can register their interest by emailing oxfordshirequest@gmail.com you will then be kept informed about developments. Registering interest does not confirm your booking. You will need to complete the booking form which is sent to you and return this with your deposit to secure your place.

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GUIDES AGAINST BULLYING Don't Stay Silent, GAB CGI are always looking for new and interesting ways to get our name out and about in the public arena; last year we took part in the Pride parades for the first time ever and we also took part in the World Meeting of Families. This year we took part in the World Anti-Bullying Forum and the Cork Summer Show, and we’ve got a few ideas in the pipeline for next year already.

The World Anti-Bullying Forum was held in the Helix in Dublin on June 4th to 6th, and there were distinguished delegates and presenters from all over the world in attendance. CGI took an exhibition space at the Forum to showcase our child protection and inclusive policies and also to launch our new Guides Against Bullying programme.

Guides Against Bullying – Don’t Stay Silent, GAB! The idea behind the tagline is that we all love to talk and so we’re encouraging our members not to stay silent, but to talk to someone if they see or experience bullying in any way. We have designed the programme with the help of our Safeguarding Team and included resources and activities that you can use to help run an anti-bullying information meeting. We will also have a badge available soon, for all sections, once they’ve completed the programme.

Our programme was met with lots of positive feedback from researchers, lecturers and medical professionals alike from many different countries.

The main thing we heard was that people were delighted that a charity organisation such as ours was taking the issue of bullying seriously, and that we’re not only ‘talking the talk’ but we back it up by having robust child safety procedures in place.

We were asked by one lady from Australia, a child psychologist, whether we would be prepared to share our programme with other guiding and scouting organisations around the world? She felt it was important that a programme such as ours would be available worldwide. And a professor from Japan said that his research team was working in this area and that if we did share our programme with scouts in Japan that they’d be very keen to work with them on some research projects.

Many people were also very impressed with our child safeguarding cards and bookmarks and a substantial number took some away with them as examples to bring back to their own countries and organisations. We were praised by a number of people for having the courage to say that even though we weren’t experts in the area of child protection, that we still recognised it could be important for some children and we gave them access to the professionals, should they ever need them, through the cards and bookmarks. A big thanks on our behalf to Barbara Ryan and her team for these cards, which have now made a global impact.

All in all, we felt it was worthwhile our being at the WABF, and we’d like to thank the Guiders and Rangers that did volunteer their time and helped out over the few days, we couldn’t have done it without you.

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Cork Summer Show Thanks to our leaders from both the North and South Lee areas who volunteered to represent CGI at our stand at the 2019 Cork Summer Show. It was a great opportunity to showcase what CGI has to offer. We were happy to meet up with and chat with our ETB colleagues who also had a stand at the Show. A special thanks to our youth members Nicola, Anna and Niamh who were great ambassadors for CGI.

WE ARE MOVING! The Scout Shop will be moving all uniform and badges to our online platform as of August 1st 2019

what does this mean for you?

Uniform will only be available to purchase online

Have your uniform & badges delivered to your door within a few clicks We have improved our online customer experience & after sales support so that we can ensure top class speedy service

You can place an order instore with the help of our staff at one of our new instore portals Click & Collect will allow you to order from home and collect instore within 5 working days

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R E M I N D E R

CCA APPLICATIONS

SEPT 27th No applications will be accepted after this date

R E M I N D E R

www.girlguidesireland.ie 33

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National Guide & Ranger Camp The theme for this year’s National Guide and Ranger Camp was “Body and Soul, Live your Festival Life” and we can certainly say that we did!

Most festivals nowadays are synonymous with wet weather and wellies, flimsy tents, nasty food and even nastier toilets, but not us, the facilities and the food throughout the weekend were excellent. We all landed down to the IOAC in Wexford on a warm, overcast but dry Friday evening. Arlene, our Camp Chief, and Emily, our Chief Commissioner, were both there to greet everyone as they arrived. www.girlguidesireland.ie 35

It was an amazing sight to see all our tents erected together, a great turnout from all regions of CGI and great numbers of Guides, Rangers and Leaders. Supper was served on Friday night then we went off to the Opening Ceremony and Campfire where all the girls sang their lungs out. It was brilliant to see so many groups wanting to lead songs, the confidence in our young women to stand up in front of almost 300 of their peers is amazing. We sang loud and long, with the close only coming because we had to observe the quiet time on the site. Then, it was off to bed for the girls and off to leaders meeting for the rest of us.

Friday night was very warm in the tents and that could have been part of the reason so many seemed to be restless. In the dead of night there was a lot of ‘shushing’ going on and plenty of footsteps and muffled groans as people were up and about and falling over guy lines. At the leader meeting on Saturday night camp etiquette was discussed, and the need to remind everyone of their manners and more importantly the fact that tents are not brick walls and what you say can be heard outside.

Saturday morning came way too early by the look of some faces at breakfast, but it was a long day and we started early. Rangers were off site shortly after 8am and didn’t come back till after 4pm, they had a wonderful day at Shielbaggan Outdoor Education Centre, where they got to try out some coasteering, caving and archery.

The girls loved the activities and the views, and apparently there was one or two views they especially liked (ask them does the name James ring any bells?) A special thanks to Trish and her Ranger Team for facilitating the day for the girls. Trish also had Ranger activities on site for Sunday, including leather woggle making.

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Meanwhile, back at Festival HQ it was all hands on deck as all of our activities began and our groups swung into action. The organisation was first class, and the fact that each of the girls had a lanyard with their group colour and the list and times of their activities on it, meant that we didn’t have anyone wandering around lost or looking for where they had to go next, it certainly made for smoother running of events.

The IOAC ran archery, high ropes, kayaking and raft building for us, and each girl managed to do three of these activities over the weekend, then we had our other activities in our CGI festival space. The range and diversity of the sessions on offer was amazing.

Pioneering was a big hit, and once again thanks to Dave, Paddy and team for their patience and good humour, the girls loved this base and what they managed to accomplish over the weekend, from the swing to the elevator to the swing-boat, but by far the most popular was the pillow fights.

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Another session that got rave reviews from everybody was the Communication Station with our own Guider Fiona O’Dwyer, who spoke to the girls about different means of communication and taught them some Lamh signs, which they were using all weekend looking for ice cream and bottles of water.

The girls also got a certificate on completion of their session, so thanks once again Fiona.

We had a Meet and Greet tent where people could go and meet our Chief Commissioner and Assistant Chief Commissioner and ask any questions they had, give suggestions or simply take away some freebies. The Chief and Assistant Chief also launched our new Guides Against Bullying programme, which was met with a warm and favourable response from everyone present. Leaders were able to take away a copy of the new programme and some pins for their girls, and by September we’ll have some cloth badges for their uniforms available in National Office. There are elements of the programme suitable for all sections, Cygnets through to Rangers.

Most of our leaders on site were assigned a group to chaperone for the day or a base station to help out on. So many of our leaders stepped up and took on the running of activities that it’s impossible to mention them all, for example we had Terry and Elaine on tie-dying; Brid was on semaphore; Alanna and Grainne on festival face painting while Lisa and Dawn were on conventional make up; Marina and Cathy did aromatherapy and Yasmin and Alison helped out on pioneering. There are many more leaders who spent their weekend covering activities and groups, and a big thanks go to you all.

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We also had a number of special interests come to our site; the RNLI, the fire brigade and Guide Dogs all came along and spent time with the girls, explaining who they are and what they do and answering many questions along the way. Our sports section and rounders games were curated by the members of the Griffin household, so thanks are definitely due to them for coming all the way down to Wexford for the day on Saturday.

Saturday night we had a camp favourite, the disco, and it was so successful we even had guests from IGG and Scouting Ireland (who were also on site that weekend) come along and join in the fun. After such a long and busy day the campsite fell silent before midnight and there was very little movement until well into Sunday morning, in fact, we had to round up some people to make sure they were up in time for breakfast!

Sunday dawned another lovely day and the girls went about finishing off their activities throughout the morning and early afternoon.

Tents came down, bags were packed and we began to prepare for the journeys home. At the closing ceremony the IOAC presented each unit present with a special neckerchief which was a lovely gesture on their part, very much appreciated on ours.

Everyone got home safe but tired on Sunday evening with lots of new friends and memories made. A huge thanks to Arlene and her team for putting on such an enjoyable, actionpacked, non-stop camp. And as usual, to all the leaders, thanks for giving up yet more of your precious time for the girls in your units. They appreciate it and so do we. Now, where’s the next camp going to be?

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Communications I hope everyone has been enjoying their holidays so far and making the most of the summer to get out and about. We'd love to see any photos you have of you and your girls enjoying the great outdoors; camping, hiking and just generally having fun, perhaps share your end of year celebrations with us? In the past few weeks CGI has definitely shown itself to be a vibrant organisation, getting out and about Around Ireland in style; from the Cork Summer Show to Pride Parades around the country and the National Guide and Ranger Camp. But what’s in store for you and your group over the summer?

Are you planning on visiting an international jamboree or heading off on an annual trip?

Then please, keep us posted.

Finally, if you’re in need of inspiration for the holiday break don’t forget about the Summer Challenge badge, which is free from the National Office. Another free badge opportunity is the 90th Birthday Challenge badge, which is now also available from the National Office.

Here’s a selection of photos of what some of you have been getting up to in the past while.

Yours in Guiding, Michelle Finnerty National Commissioner for Communications pr@girlguidesireland.ie

Around Ireland sOUTH west Region CGI are Guard of Honour for Bishops Ordination The South West Region was proud to be invited to form a Guard of Honour at the ordination of the new Bishop of Cork and Ross Rev. Fr. Fintan Gavin at St. Mary's Cathedral on Sunday 30th June. It was a historic day in the Diocese of Cork and Ross and a memorable occasion especially for our younger members who represented us well and who were treated to well deserved refreshments afterwards

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South West Region Leader's trip to Euro Disney The leaders in the SWR finished off the 90th celebration of CGI in style, by arranging a leaders trip to Disneyland Paris. Much to the shock and surprise of the Brigin, Guide and Ranger members!! Organised by Marie Hannigan and her project team, 23 leaders headed off from Cork airport bound for Paris. Executive shuttle buses were organised to collect the VIPs at Charles de Gaulle Airport and transport everyone to our accommodation for the weekend.

Friday all enjoyed a spot of retail therapy at the La Vallee Village, followed by a meal at the hotel and a good catch up. Saturday was a jam packed day, early start to ensure we were first in line to meet Mickey Mouse and Co. at Disneyland. A great day was had by all with the many attractions the parks had to offer, both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios and it was fantastic to have such beautiful weather. The plan was to get as many as possible to meet for a photo by the infamous castle, however there may have been confusion between Cork and Paris time or simply too much fun on the many roller coaster to be had!!

On Sunday it was time to pick up some souvenirs at the Disney Village and sadly bid 'Au revoir' to Paris. It is fair to say a great weekend was had by all and great to see the leaders enjoying themselves on such a social event. The return flight consisted of many suggestions for the next trip, which we have been informed 'all will be revealed at the AGM.'

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eastern Region Buion Cecelia Enrolment Buion Cecelia held their Enrolment. 12 girls made their promise. Fr John McNamara celebrated it. Afterwards the girls in the group entertained. Brigins performed a poem-drama on billing and care.

They talked about Brigins and what they liked about it, and sang a few songs they had learned. All the group planned this with the help of their Leaders Sinead and Catherine. They also designed a poster for the night. Later tea and coffee was served by the girls, with biscuits and cake.

Buion Marc Springfield explore Dublin Monuments Buion Marc BrigĂ­ns & Guides from Springfield Tallaght recently enjoyed a fantastic end of term day out.

Our day included a walking tour of Dublin Monuments and a trip on the Viking Splash!

Here we are with the "Hags With the Bags" statue at Dublin's Hal'penny Bridge.

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South East REgion South East Region Recycle Fashion Show South East Region Guides doing their bit for the environment. The Region had a recycle fashion show for the Guides.

The girls used material, newspapers, plastic bottle tops, bags and sweet wrappers. They got very creative and they had great fun. Wexford Town, Enniscorthy, and Castlebridge Guides took part. They had teams of 2 and 3.

Counsellor John O’ Rourke judged the girls’ outfits, and he spoke to each team about their designs.

South East Region Thinking Day/90th celebration Photos

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Northern Region Holy Trinity The Guides went for 2 hikes in the Belfast Hills as part of their Chief Commissioner’s Award. To prepare, the girls learnt how to read maps, orienteer, then they made route cards and learnt the country code.

Our first hike started at Belfast Castle and we hiked Cave Hill where the girls explored and discovered some interesting caves. Despite the rain everyone had a great time getting out into nature and looking at the views of Belfast City. We had a hot chocolate at the castle as a treat when we finished.

Our second hike took place on Black Mountain where we were lucky enough to have beautiful weather. Everyone was in great spirts. The girls then practiced pitching their tent in preparation for camp in June. We challenged the girls to pitch it with no help from the leaders and it only took them 3 minutes and 47 seconds! Well done girls!

St Oliver Plunkett Lurgan Brigini St Oliver Plunkett Lurgan Brigins had a jam packed weekend 18th-20th May in the sunshine in Crawfordsburn. We paddled in the sea, had a princess tea party with fancy home-made cocktail glasses, punch and campfire cookies (thanks to Guiders Link ideas!!) on Saturday. Sunday was our adventure day with crate climbing and 3G swing. 29 very tired Brigins and 6 exhausted leaders at the end of it but a very successful camp. Looking forward to our fun day on 17th June and then a wellearned break till September for Brigins and Brigin leaders in Lurgan

St Oliver Plunkett Lurgan & Dromore Scouts St Oliver Plunkett Guides joined forces with 5th and 6th Dromore Scouts and headed for the Venture Centre on the Isle of Man for a fun packed, adventure filled 4 days.

We would highly recommend this as a summer camp with a difference, I don’t know how we would top it! The staff were amazing, from food to activities they couldn’t do enough for us. The young people (and leaders) were kept busy from 9am-9pm and fell exhausted into bed we swam in the sea, did canoeing and kayaking, abseiling, assault course, high ropes, team building, archery, shooting – if anyone needs a few hints and tips on flying hand luggage only with a group of Guides give me a shout! It was our first “overseas” trip in many years but we all hope to return to this fantastic place.

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Northern Region Regional Camp Ardnavalley 21 – 23 June 2019 Great camp had by all with patrol challenges, team challenges, colour runs, trophies, reusable water bottles and camp badges.

84 girls and 32 Leaders took part in this event and a fantastic time was had by all involved. The weather was gorgeous for once which just makes camping that bit more enjoyable!

Roisin McMillan, our Regional Commissioner wanted to incorporate a STEM theme to the event with each patrol and team challenge promoting the girls abilities to problem solve, think logically, work as a team and most importantly of all have fun while doing it.

Big thank you to Father Vincent Cushnahan who gave a lovely mass and who was also great fun!

We held a mini campfire competition on Saturday night which was facilitated by our National Training Commissioner Eilish Smyth who was in fine voice and to quote one Guide “I was looking forward to the campfire all day and it exceeded my expectations” High praise indeed for Eilish!

The camp rounded off on Sunday with team challenges and prize giving and most importantly of all dry tents!! Who could ask for more!

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CGI ARKLOW'S 80th birthday

This is a very special year for CGI in Arklow Town, County Wicklow, they’re celebrating their 80th Anniversary this year. To kick off their celebrations they received the ‘Best Youth Award’ in their local St Patrick’s Day Parade, and now their leader Anna Keane, has received a Cathaoirleach’s Special Recognition Award for 2019 in the municipal council offices.

The Award was presented by the Cathaoirleach, Cllr Miriam Murphy, herself an ex-Guide as she mentioned on the night. Cllr Murphy also spoke about how being a member of this organisation made her feel part of a team and included in the community, despite her disability. She has fond memories of being a Girl Guide and believes she wouldn't be where she is today without the guidance and support from Anna and CGI. Here is an excerpt from Cllr Murphy’s speech: Catholic Guiding came to Arklow in 1939. The company was established in the Convent of Mercy and given the name 'Muire na Trocaire' in honour of the nuns where it was started. On Ascension Thursday 1939, the Girl Guides kicked off with ten members enrolled by Fr. Gilmartin and just a month later membership had more than doubled with the enrolment of a further 11 girls.

'It says something for the appeal and impact for good in society of the Guides that former members and leaders are bringing their daughters along to join up,' one person said. 'It is not unusual to see grandmothers collecting Brigini or Guides from their meetings and indulging in some reminiscences.' Another added that 'Friendships forged in the Guides last a lifetime'.

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Anna Keane, who progressed from being a Guide member herself, has been involved in Guiding in Arklow for many years. She has been a leader with Arklow Girl Guides for ‘too many years’ to calculate! Under Anna’s direction a group for younger members was also set up. Brigini companies form an integral and important part of the life of Guiding in Arklow. The first Brigin group was formed in the 1970s and in response to growing demand, a second company 'Naomh Dagan' was set up.

Guiding also afforded many girls the opportunity of a holiday at a time when family holidays really didn’t occur. Girls often said “I joined Guides and saw Ireland”. Under Anna’s supervision, the Guides made use of the An Oige Hostels for their annual summer camps and travelled to the four corners of Ireland.

Anna has, over the years, organised international trips for the girls, such as trips to Lourdes and Rome, to Prague and Vienna, to Pax Lodge, to Paris and EuroDisney to name but a few.

Under Anna’s guidance, Arklow won many competitions and trophies, including the overall award, the Major Shield Trophy, presented to the company adjudged to be the best in the Diocese of Dublin, which at the time had over one hundred guide companies.

Anna has dedicated her life to the running of Arklow Girl Guides and Brigini and is a deserved recipient of this award, which is most fitting in the 80th Anniversary Year of the establishment of the group in Arklow.

Congratulations to Anna, and to all in CGI Arklow, we wish you a wonderful 80th Anniversary year.

Contacts NEB Chief Commissioner Assistant 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 assistantchiefcommissioner@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.