Please note the name change from “Pride of Ireland Trust” as this new organisation finds its feet.
This project is well underway but needs a lot of work on many fronts to get it over the line. Neil O’Hagan has been busy getting many parties together to discuss the idea and he is making it a reality. The person, of vision, behind this project is Enda O Coineen. Neil talked in our last update of the young people and their leaders who travelled to New Zealand to gain first-hand experience of youth development. If you follow this link http://youtu.be/cgro7lwUXVw you will see how this trip, to quote the youths; “the best 10 days of our lives”, came about.
Next week the first AGM of Atlantic Youth Trust will take place in Belfast and I am sure the thrust of the organisation will be moved onwards after such a get together. In the meantime here is a synopsis of where the project is at present. This is extracted from an A4 pdf. I am afraid I can’t show the photograph referred to but can assure you that the concept drawings and painting of the proposed vessel are something to behold. For the same reason the illustration of the backers has to be withheld at this stage.
Joe Ryan, ryan.jjj@gmail.com
3/09/2014
ATLANTIC YOUTH TRUST
MISSION
Our mission is to bring young people from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland together for youth development voyages on a purpose built tall ship. This is not about teaching people to sail; it’s about developing the self-esteem, teamwork, leadership and communication skills of fifteen to eighteen year olds. At the same time we will play an important role in furthering peace and reconciliation on the island.
BACKGROUND
Three years of local and international research pointed us towards a model in New Zealand that has been running successfully for over forty years. We’re replicating almost all aspects of the model and are tailoring it to our local needs.
PROGRAMME
The annual programme will be focused on ten day youth development voyages. Forty trainees will be recruited for each voyage, (twenty males and twenty females) from forty different schools or youth groups across the island. This will help create a cross section of society on each voyage. A panel of experts has been advising the Trust on all aspects of the programme.
Engaging with the island’s diaspora is another key priority. Tailored packages will offer unique opportunities to experience our cultures while exploring the island by sea. Periodic transatlantic voyages will also take place to engage with Irish and Northern Irish Americans.
IMPACT
Over 1,000 youth development trainee places a year, 100 youth rehabilitation opportunities a year, thousands more introduced to the sea, tall ship races attracted to the island, tangible diaspora engagement, consistent maritime economy stimulus, all over the 30+ year lifespan of the ship.
THE SHIP
Pictured on the reverse is what months of research and consultation produced with Damen Shipbuilders and Dykstra Naval Architects. It’ll be the safest tall ship afloat, built and manned to full passenger ship rules.
SUPPORT
Countless organisations and individuals provide ongoing core support and seed funding. A selection of these can be seen on the reverse. The most high profile individuals are Denis O’Brien of Digicel and financier Dermot Desmond.
FUNDING
Capital funding is being sought from four broad categories: the Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland governments, the EU, and philanthropic sources including foundations. We have exciting naming opportunities for donors and offer real tangible outcomes.
TIMELINE
Once sufficient capital is secured in 2015 we will put the full design and build of the ship out to tender. The ship will then be delivering a full programme by 2018 and will continue doing so until 2048 when she will be replaced or refitted.
GET INVOLVED
Our structure relies on the goodwill and generosity of individuals and organisations. We welcome all advice, thoughts, connections and contributions – financial or otherwise.
CONCLUSION
What we’re creating will leave an incredible legacy in terms of youth development, education, peace and reconciliation, enterprise and tourism.
We invite you to join us on this journey to create a lasting culture of cooperation, prosperity and peace on the island.