PRESENTATION EVENT

No less than 80 certificates were presented to members of the Armagh Bands Forum at a recent presentation event held in Ballyrea Orange Hall. Participants who completed their recent training programme were presented with their certificates by Mr John Doyle, Community Safety Co-ordinator for Armagh and was assisted by Honor Hawthorne Bands Forum Vice Chair.

The Chairman of the Forum, Ivan Walker, outlined the work of the Forum since its launch in 2006 by highlighting the importance of training for bands, how training contributes to the development of bands and the contribution towards personal development. Advice is available to member bands on the completion of 11/1 forms, the provision of funding information and practical assistance with funding applications.  As well as seeing improved co-operation between member bands the Forum committee has met with representatives of Armagh City and District Council, the PSNI, the Parades Commission and local communities.  Through these meetings relationships have been developed leading to much improved community relations.  Following a discussion on issues for local bands, Ivan thanked the trainers who had facilitated the training courses, the staff of REACT for their support and the Community Relations Council and Armagh Community Safety Partnership for their continued financial support.  He stressed that the Forum is here to support local bands and members are always willing to help with any problem. The evening concluded with supper provided by Ballyrea Boyne Defenders Flute Band.

Training courses will recommence in the autumn and will include;

Conflict Management and Good Relations

Marshalling Skills

Child protection

Public First Aid (St John's Ambulance)

Negotiation Skills

Anti-sectarianism and Anti-racism

EDI and Good Relations

Communication and presentation skills. 

The importance of this training cannot be over emphasized because most funding bodies are now requesting applicants to have this type of training before considering their applications. This training is free to band members in Armagh City and District. 

For further information, please contact Marion or Barbara at  REACT: 028 37526869