The launch of a new campaign which will help the people of the Midlands region to stay connected, stay alive, and look after their mental wellbeing during the COVID-19 emergency, has been welcomed by local Councillor, John Dolan.
“COVID-19 has had a dramatic effect on the country and has changed the way we go about our daily lives, with people working from home, looking after their families and caring for older people as we pull together to save lives and protect our loved ones. Our economy and local business have also been hit hard with many people losing their jobs during the pandemic.
“ Therefore, it is imperative that we look after ourselves and I welcome the launch of this invaluable campaign which offers resources for people of all ages as they cope with COVID-19.
“In this together will offer regular videos, ideas, and activities people can take up, which will be promoted on social media and other platforms. This information will be available on gov.ie/Together, on television, radio and newspapers. Local initiatives can also be found on the Westmeath County Council website,” Cllr. John Dolan commented.
The Fine Gael Councillor detailed numerous activities which local communities can pursue at home or with family members or neighbours online.
· A Lets Play Ireland initiative to encourage playtime for children, with online resources for storytelling, playful learning, and Play For Play’s sake coming online.
· Every home can take part in a virtual Bloom At Home where well-known gardeners, Show Garden Designers and Bord Bia Bloom staff will share their advice and tips throughout May, encouraging people to prepare their own plants and gardens, balconies and window boxes for a National celebration. This will culminate in a final virtual Bloom Day showcasing the nations efforts.
· Fleadh Ceoil na hEireann , which attracted 750,000 visitors in 2019, and was to be held in Mullingar this year, will be reimagined as a digital and virtual Fleadh for 2020. TG4 is partnering with Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann to deliver this special event.
· Live concerts over the internet and social media through #Ireland Performs.
· Motivational exercise videos for people of all ages from Irish athletes.
· Music making initiatives for young people.
· Online classes in dance, meditation , and movement.
· Virtual classes in traditional skills like weaving, basket making, jewellery, ceramics.
· Educational tutorials for young people including an Irish language song, or making your own podcast.
· Thousands of eBooks and e-audiobooks that you can access at home.
· Walking challenges to encourage people to exercise in their locality.
“The campaign includes a new suite of resources for children and parents including entertaining children at home, creating a daily, mindfulness and cooking and advice on healthy diets. Online advice will be launched next week for Leaving Certificate students with up to date information on this years exams, and details of practical and psychological supports currently available, as part of the broad package of supports for Leaving Certificate students.
“These measures are an important step to try to address the wellbeing of everyone, and we all have a part to play in helping each other, whether it be getting food or shopping for a neighbour, or just making a simple phone call to have a chat with someone and let them know that you are thinking about them, it is important that we support each other and defeat COVID-19 together,” Cllr. Dolan emphasised.
