Write To Celebrate 2005, a collection of writings from The South Inner City Literacy Service, was launched on Thursday 19th May in Ringsend Technical Institute.

An air of conviviality and celebratory anticipation filled the hall as people poured in. We had to halt our chatter when Kathleen Ingoldsby, Organiser of the Ringsend Adult Literacy and Basic Education Programme called on Charlie McManus, Principal of the Tech. to say a few words and then introduced Roisin Ingle, a native of the area and well-known journalist in The Irish Times, to launch the book.

For the next hour a mixture of tutors and students with their friends and families sat in rapt attention as some of the authors read their pieces. A variety of experiences unfolded, offering glimpses into the lives of people from diverse cultural, educational and social backgrounds. The strength of applause for each reading reflected the admiration and appreciation of the audience.
The night concluded with a feast of delicious sambos, some cheese delights and a celebratory glass of wine. Smiling faces acknowledged the evening’s success.

Ringsend Adult Literacy Service is based at the Technical Institute on Cambridge Road, where I met with Kathleen Ingoldsby, the Organiser and Maeve O’Tuama, the administror on the morning of the launch.

In their large sunny workroom they spoke about the Free Adult Part Time Basic Education which is available to anyone who finds it hard to read, write or spell and is offered in morning/afternoon and evening classes. Currently over 100 adults from Ringsend, ranging in age from 20 to 70, are availing of these classes, some take one-to-one tuition to help with spelling, reading or writing while others work in small groups concentrating on English, Maths or Computers.

Last year 25 adults were successful in FETAC (Further Education Training Awards Council) modules in Communications, Maths and Computers. Kathleen emphasised that they endeavour to run the Service with a flexibility that meets the need of each individual learner and that creates an atmosphere of sharing and fun.

She expressed appreciation to the Principal of the Ringsend Tech, Charlie McManus for his spectacular support and to the porters whose warmth and energy make all who enter feel welcome and at home.

To wrap it up in the words of one who came back to learning after a lapse of many years: “I did not think I would be able to restart again but I met Kathleen for the second time and explained to her how I wished to restart learning again. I knew there was so much more I needed to learn with spelling, reading and writing. I was involved in so many other things I could not see where I would get the time to fit my class in.

“Kathleen asked if I could come for a one-to-one class for the spelling, reading and writing. I picked Monday night. Then she asked if I would like to do a computer class. Again, I did not know when I could fit it in. She asked me would I be able to cope with the two classes on the one night and I jumped at the idea.

“I began the two classes back in October and I must say I am enjoying them. I feel better about reading out loud and am getting better with spelling.

I know I still have so much more to learn. My teachers are great and I feel at ease with them. I am happy to come back every week. I was even able to write a little short story for the scheme book which I never thought I would do.”

Full information on the Service can be got from Ringsend Technical Institute or by phoning Kathleen at 6684571.

From the Liberties Writers’ Group, from left, Matt Callaghan, Samantha Kavanagh, Maria Riordan (Tutor), Paul Gorry and Angela Lawlor.