As the Young Greens/Óige Ghlas Summer Camp comes to an end, participants from Ireland, Wales, Scotland, England, Norway, Luxembourg, Belgium and Denmark gathered to reflect on their experiences.
In the heart of County Leitrim, this group, brought together by the Green Party's commitment to cross-cultural understanding and sustainable communities, has come away with a feeling of connection to Drumshanbo, its people, and the essence of rural Ireland.The camp's schedule was packed with activities that showcased the beauty of Drumshanbo and County Leitrim. One of the highlights was a day of adventure on the waters of Lough Allen, led by Lough Allen Adventure. Participants took to the lake, enjoying kayaking which led to a day of laughter, bonding, and unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Sliabh an Iarainn.
Another experience awaited the participants at Tommy Earley's Eco-Farm in Mountallen. Here, they had the opportunity to connect with the land, learning about sustainable farming practices and the importance of preserving the environment.
Amy Winandy, Co-Chair of the Luxembourgish Young Greens, mentioned “Getting to real-life experience the Irish nature and farming really put the green movement even more in perspective and has highlighted its importance.”
The dedication to ecological farming and protecting biodiversity through rewilding and rewetting bogs has left a lasting impression on the participants, reinforcing the Green Party's commitment to the environment and biodiversity.
Drumshanbo's charm lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its heritage and culture. To help the participants uncover these facets of the town, Catriona McManus led a captivating walking tour exploring the history of Lairds and it’s transition to the Food Hub and also noting the role Drumshanbo plays in promoting traditional music in Ireland.
The warm and welcoming atmosphere of Drumshanbo, extended by its residents, was noted by participants. Particularly the hospitality in Berry's Tavern on High Street, which embodied the spirit of Irish hospitality.
The sense of belonging left a lasting impression on the young visitors. It reinforced the idea that communities are the lifeblood of any region.
Bláithín Gallagher, Chair of the North West Greens said, "It was wonderful that the Young Greens chose Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim via Adam Ó Ceallaigh grandson of Paddy and Betty McManus as their location to host this fantastic event that brought together passionate participants from across rural and urban Ireland, Northern Ireland and seven other European countries.
"As Chair of our constituency group, it was a privilege to welcome and get the opportunity to meet and chat with many of the participants. Their commitment to climate justice and their passion for change were palpable.
"While they lit up Drumshanbo with their energy I have no doubt they will light up the world with their commitment to addressing climate change and ensuring social justice. With their ongoing dedication they will create a more sustainable future for all."
Throughout their time in Drumshanbo, the participants came to understand that the Green Party is not just a party for urban areas but also for rural communities.
The camp experience exemplified the party's dedication to fostering sustainable and inclusive rural regions. It highlighted the importance of preserving the unique character and culture of places like Drumshanbo.
Óige Ghlas International Officer Adam Ó Ceallaigh, a local member and the person who brought the camp to Leitrim, shared his thoughts on the positive interaction with the town.
He said, "It's brilliant to witness the enthusiasm with which participants warmed to Drumshanbo. This experience has shown that politics is not just about policies but also about building connections and understanding between urban and rural communities. I eagerly look forward to the next time we can welcome such a group to our town."
Eimer Conlon, Member of the North West Green Party from Ballymote and Co-Chair of the Irish Young Greens, added, "Green politics must transcend the urban versus rural divide and focus on finding common solutions that empower communities across the island in our collective pursuit of environmental sustainability.
"In an increasingly interconnected world, initiatives like the Óige Ghlas Summer Camp serve as beacons of hope and unity. They remind us that by coming together, fostering genuine connections, and appreciating local culture, we can work towards a more promising and sustainable future for all. Drumshanbo and County Leitrim have left an indelible mark on the hearts of these young individuals, and the camp's legacy will continue to inspire unity, understanding, and positive change."