Refurbishments are currently being carried out on the older section of the Iris Charles Centre at Newbridge Avenue, Sandymount. In times past, this part of the building was used as a ballroom by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Many of you may remember the concerts and dances which were held there and the good times you had at them.

Work should be finished on the new hall by Christmas, but it won’t be officially launched until early in the New Year. I went to see the work in progress last week and the place already looks fantastic. Speaking to Frances Dignan and other members of the committee, it is clear they want to make the new premises as user-friendly as possible. They are planning various uses for the new hall and are hopeful that more local residents will use the Centre as a place to meet and socialise. So next year, if you are retired, living alone or just want to get out of the house for a bit, why not visit the centre and catch up with old friends or maybe even make some new ones? You will certainly be made very welcome.

The committee of the Centre wish to acknowledge the contribution of the Lansdowne Road Stadium Development Company towards the cost of the new kitchen at the Centre. Further funds are required to complete the furnishing of the new hall and the committee would welcome any other contributions to the project.

Volunteering at the centre is a great way to get to know the locals and are always more than welcome. So if you have some time to spare and would like to help out just contact Shiela MacDonald on 086 8219987 or Claire McElvaney on 087 2368548