integration

So, what happens when couples from different cultures and faith traditions decide to get married? Esras Films is looking at exactly that for the second series of its show A Ring and a Prayer due to be filmed this year and broadcast in 2026. Currently, it is appealing for couples, at least one of whom is not Irish, to come forward. They must be planning their wedding ceremony for this year.

When I was growing up, Eastern Europe was a mysterious entity reduced to caricatures from spy movies. My knowledge about Ukraine, before the Russian invasion, was limited to Chernobyl, soccer star Andrey Shevchenko, the Klitschko brothers (boxers) and the 2014 War. The fact that the country and its people were as eclectic as those in Western Europe was lost on many of us and it has been a pleasure to get to know Ukrainians, even though we should never have had the opportunity. Here are 12 things I have learned about Ukraine and its people since February, 2022.

Over the summer in Loop Head, Co Clare, and in Borrisokane, Co Tipperary, local people protested over government plans to move refugees who had integrated and become part and parcel of the community.

Staff in Leitrim Volunteer Centre wrote to Changing Ireland to emphasise the importance of volunteering for integrating diverse newcomers into the community.

Changing Ireland introduces a new contributor: The Secret Community Development Worker will in time become known as the Banksy of Community Development, the Roy Keane of Social Inclusion. They abhor stereotypes and protect their identity like a Cavanonian protects their communion money.

Tim Dixon gave the keynote speech at the Welcoming New Communities conference held on Monday, July 15, in Dublin Castle. Originally from Australia, Tim is a cofounder of More in Common, which was set up after his friend, the late British MP Jo Cox, was murdered by a white supremacist. His talk looked at the role of the community in managing conflict. He presented clear results from scientific research and surveys in other countries, showing, for example, how to better tap into positivity within communities.

Community development workers and volunteers have been thanked for their "vital" work and their "staggering" output amidst unprecedented challenges.

Three local development company representatives welcomed the announcement of a new Community Connection Project which will employ 30 community link workers countrywide. Notably, the new community workers will have a communications role.