Latest news with #IrishSignLanguage
Irish Independent
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Over 50 free events to take place across Wexford for Cruinniú na nÓg
This year's programme boasts over 50 free events for children taking place on the day across Wexford's five libraries. Additionally, the county's iconic cultural venues, from the National Opera House to the Wexford Arts Centre, will be alive with activities ranging from animation and coding workshops to creative writing, mural painting, printmaking, and much, much more. Also announced in the programme, teenagers from Belfast and Wexford will present a unique virtual reality performance, while a special night time event has been announced for Enniscorthy's Vinegar Hill. Speaking at the programme launch Elizabeth Howard, the creative communities Engagement officer, invited the young people of Wexford to come and be inspired. 'It's a fantastic free day for young people to try something new, show off their skills, or discover a hidden talent. The theme of this year's programme is inclusion and connection and we would encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to join celebrations.' Speaking at the announcement Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council remarked, 'Cruinniú na nÓg is an incredible celebration of youthful creativity, providing a platform for children and young people to participate in the arts within their communities. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the local youth organisations, creative professionals, libraries, and community groups, without whom this event would not be possible. I would encourage all young people in the county to come join the celebrations.' This year specially curated workshops will take place across Wexford's five libraries. Designed from toddlers to twelve year olds, activities can be booked on the official website. At Wexford Town Library, children will have the opportunity to explore the art of weaving or create memory maps through collage, coloring, and drawing. Artist and designer Cuan Cusack will lead workshops focused on creating fine art prints using shadows and sunlight. Young musicians can also participate in the 'music and movement for little ones' workshop. Additionally, theatre maker Alison Ni Mhairtin will conduct an Irish Sign Language drama storytelling workshop specifically designed for children with additional needs. At Gorey Library, renowned painter Lillian O'Sullivan will conduct introductory oil painting classes for children. Young people can explore bookbinding and illustration, or participate in a bilingual singing workshop. Elizabeth Flynn will lead a weaving workshop using seasonal plants, and there will be an opportunity for aspiring computer scientists to learn coding through bracelet-making. Additionally, neurodiverse children, or those who may feel overwhelmed, will benefit from the Sensory Hour facilitated by Cathy Coughlan. At Enniscorthy Library the award-winning designer and upcycling advocate Lynn Haughton will lead a workshop where children can decorate large puzzle pieces with upcycled materials. The Wexford Youth Theatre WACT will offer acting lessons, while NCAD graduate Millie Case will conduct workshops in wet wool felting. Additionally, children can take part in stop motion animation workshops or engage in a sensory activity where they will 'Create their own calm down bottle'. Over at Bunclody Library there will be storytelling through LEGO games and musician Laura Hyland will be leading a workshop in singing and voice work. At New Ross Library artist Celeste Shimora Goedert will lead workshops in 'print making with natural materials' and there will be workshops in drama and music. There are also many other activities geared towards teenagers, and fans of The Banshees of Inisherin. At the Taghmon Family Resource Centre, filmmaker Leah O'Toole, known for her work on The Banshees of Inisherin, will be leading a filmmaking workshop. Additionally, the Red Moon Theatre Company will offer workshops for children. Director Tony McLeane-Fay from Barecheek Theatre Company will conduct acting workshops at The National Opera House and at the Gorey Family Resource Centre there will also be workshops led by mixed media artist Elaine Tobin from the Gorey Arts Collective. Teenagers can look forward to mural painting demonstrations at the Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy, as well as at the Wexford Arts Centre. Facilitated by The Walls Project, Wexford Arts Centre will also host coding workshops presented by Anyone4Science. The Stella Maris Centre in Kilmore Quay will host 'Yola and Our Stories', an engaging theatre workshop for children focusing on heritage, history, and storytelling, facilitated by Chris Moran. This year, teenagers from Wexford and Belfast will come together as part of an innovative 'Shared Island' project that aims to spark critical discussions about misinformation surrounding the topics of climate change and health. The groups will engage online and work with theatre professionals to create a scripted performance. A 360-degree VR video expert will record the final performances, and members of the public will have the opportunity to experience the piece using Google Cardboard viewers that will be available at libraries throughout the county. As part of this year's theme of inclusion and connection, Cruinniú na nÓg will partner with seven groups across Wexford identified as 'Seldom Heard.' These essential community groups provide support to young people on various issues, including LGBTQI+ support, young individuals in direct provision, and those living with long-term illnesses. Each group will be matched with an artist or expert facilitator who comes from similar background or has been through similar life experiences as those participating in the groups. The day will end with a bang on top of Vinegar Hill featuring 'The Night Belongs to Youth,' a collaborative project with Creative Places Enniscorthy. The sunset event on Vinegar Hill will be open to the public and will feature a movement piece led by young people of Enniscorthy to the summit of the hill. The full schedule with details can be accessed on the website.
Irish Independent
19-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
‘Science isn't distant … it's in your city over a pint' – Pint of Science Festival kicks off in Dublin pubs
Like how artificial intelligence can interpret your emotions, or how sepsis can strike without warning, and what you should do if it does? Tonight marks the launch of the three-day Pint of Science Festiva l, taking place across nine pubs in Dublin. Running from May 19 to May 21, the festival invites the public to engage with researchers and scientists in a relaxed and informal setting. Pint of Science is a charity organisation committed to making science accessible to everyone. 'We are trying to break down the traditional barriers between scientists and the public,' says Dr Namrata Iyer, a microbiologist and director of Pint of Science Ireland. 'Science isn't just for labs and lecture halls. It's for everyone – and what better place to talk about it than over a pint?' Two events in Dublin will also include Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreters. 'The interpreters study the talks in advance, prepare for technical terms, so that people can join in and enjoy,' says Dr Iyer, who one day hopes to give her own talk on topics like human microbiome or how women's health is underrepresented in science. One of the anticipated talks this Wednesday night comes from Professor Steve Kerrigan, Deputy Head of the School of Pharmacy (Research) at RCSI, whose work on sepsis focuses on saving lives by raising awareness. 'The whole point of Pint of Science is... I just want people to understand this is what sepsis is, from what we know what it is, and take it from there,' he says. Professor Kerrigan warns that the signs of sepsis are dangerously easy to miss. 'If you've got cancer, you may feel sick, and you'll go to your doctor and be looked after,' he said. 'If you have a stroke, there are visible signs – your face might change, your speech may slur, or you might have difficulty with your tongue. 'But with sepsis, nothing changes, and this is where the problem lies: it's non-specific. 'If people ignore the signs and symptoms associated with sepsis, that is when the infection spreads to all parts of the body and is very difficult to treat after that.' Rachna Gowlikar, co-manager of the event, says Pint of Science also brings people closer. 'It's a chance to walk into a pub, grab a pint, and ask a scientist, 'What exactly do you do, and why?' That simple question can spark real conversations and new ideas,' she said. 'Events like these don't just make science accessible, they make it human. It's not a lecture hall or a lab. 'It's a creative space where you meet locals, challenge ideas, and realise that science isn't distant. It's right here, in your city, over a pint.' Events run from 7pm to 9pm each evening, and the festival is free to attend. For full details visit
Extra.ie
14-05-2025
- Business
- Extra.ie
Baffled by Broadband? ComReg helps you find out what your options are
Technology changes quickly, and with so much of our work and personal lives relying on digital tools, it can feel overwhelming to stay informed. Take broadband, for example. ComReg carried out a Broadband Connectivity Survey in 2023 that found 44% of people work from home at least one day a week- but do you know if you have the right package for your needs? Well if you don't, ComReg can help! The Commission for Communications Regulation has been providing consumers with reliable guidance on broadband, mobile and landline services since 2002. Pic: Getty Images ComReg has recently updated its free online tool Compare, that's an easy-to-use resource where you can click on the service you are looking for to discover all the options that are available to you. The tool searches for mobile, broadband, home phone and bundle plans that are tailored to your needs, that way you know you're getting the very best value for money. Pic: Shutterstock When comparing broadband plans, you can filter by a number of ways: Technology Speed Provider Contract length For a new mobile plan, you can choose between bill pay or pre-pay, and filter by technology and plans that include phones. You can even check which plans do not have annual price increases. Pic: Shutterstock ComReg doesn't just help you compare packages and bundles, they also provide information on how to switch smoothly if you need to do so. For example, did you know that if you lose service when switching, the disruption shouldn't last more than one working day? As well as the Compare tool, ComReg's website also has advice and information about mobile and broadband services along with helpful tools that allow you to check broadband availability and a mobile coverage map. If you need help, ComReg's Consumer Care team is available to assist you, or your authorised representative, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday (excluding public holidays). You can contact ComReg's dedicated Consumer Care team by phone at (01) 8049668, via email to consumerline@ or online complaint form or live chat over on the website Sending a text with the words COMREG or ASKCOMREG to 51500 will request a call or text back (standard SMS rates apply), while you can send a letter to the Consumer Care Team, ComReg, One Dockland Central, Guild Street, Dublin 1, D01 E4X0. An Irish Sign Language facility is available on request and you can contact ComReg Consumer Care via text relay. For more information, visit
The Journal
07-05-2025
- Business
- The Journal
Bamboozled by broadband? Learn about what options are best for you
WHEN IT COMES to communications technology, not all of us are experts – and that's okay. With the rapid change in the technology we rely on for personal use and work these days, it can be hard to keep on top of everything. Luckily, there is help out there if you don't know the answers to everything. ComReg (the Commission for Communications Regulation) is the regulator and a source of trusted advice and support for consumers when it comes to electronic communications services (mobile phone, home phone and broadband). They are experts in electronic communications services and offer independent information to answer any question. ComReg's website should be your go-to for any guidance you may need about modern communications. ComReg's 2023 Broadband Connectivity consumer survey shows that 44% of respondents work from home online at least one day a week. We're all doing more with broadband than ever before, highlighting its important role in Ireland's future. ComReg recently updated its free online resource called Compare . This online tool helps people find a mobile, broadband, home phone or bundled plan that best suits their needs. Click on the service you are looking for to discover your options. When comparing broadband plans, you can filter by technology, speed, service provider and contract length. For a new mobile plan, you can choose between bill pay or pre-pay, and filter by technology and plans that include phones. You can even check which plans do not have annual price increases. As well as telling you what phone and broadband plans are out there, ComReg has plenty of helpful advice and information about mobile and broadband services along with helpful tools that allow you to check broadband availability and a mobile coverage map . Advertisement Shutterstock / Prostock-studio Shutterstock / Prostock-studio / Prostock-studio They also offers tips on switching providers. Did you know when switching if any issues in this process lead to you losing service, this must not exceed one working day? ComReg's Consumer Care team is available to assist you, or your authorised representative, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday (excluding public holidays) Web: for online complaint form and live web chat Email: consumerline@ Phone: (01) 8049668 Text: COMREG or ASKCOMREG to 51500 to receive a call or text back (standard SMS rates apply) Post: Consumer Care Team, ComReg, One Dockland Central, Guild Street, Dublin 1 D01 E4X0 Irish Sign Language: Irish Sign Language facility is available on request. Text Relay: You can contact ComReg Consumer Care via text relay. For more information, please visit
Irish Examiner
22-04-2025
- General
- Irish Examiner
Tots to teens: Learn the simple signs parents can use to communicate with their babies
Babies communicate with their hands long before they can talk. They wave. They clap. They point. This is because they master using their hands to make signs before they master manipulating the muscles in their mouth to form words. An event at Cork City Library, on Grand Parade, at noon on Thursday, April 24, offers parents the opportunity to learn some simple signs they can use to communicate with their babies. Hosted by Claire Glynn, of Clever Little Handies, the event will introduce parents to Irish Sign Language, and there will also be rhyming storytelling sessions for everyone to enjoy. The event is free and all are welcome, but it's recommended that you reserve your spot at A baby journal When Co Kildare mother of two Bronagh Davidson was pregnant, she kept a journal to record the experience. She wanted to track all the special moments, from the first flutters to the strangest cravings. She also hoped the journals would help her to connect with her babies, while creating a keepsake she could pass down to them in years to come. She tried several different journals, but never felt any of them was quite right. Eventually, she decided to design one of her own. My Pregnancy Journal is the delightful result. It contains weekly progress updates, with space for personal notes and photos, sections where mums-to-be can write letters to their babies, trimester calendars to mark milestones, special pages for events like baby showers and nursery planning, and so much more. The journal is available from and costs €44.97. Learning to cycle Learning how to ride a bike is one of the rites of passage of childhood. But it can be a difficult skill to master. This is where the YVolution Y Velo junior balance bike can help. YVolution is a Dublin-based company that produces a range of bikes and scooters, and this balance bike is one of their best-sellers. A balance bike has no pedals, allowing children to learn the skill of balance, and making it much easier for them to transition to a regular bike. The Y Velo junior balance bike is designed for children aged 18 months to four years, and the height of its seat and handlebars can be adjusted as they grow. It's also got large wheels and higher ground clearance, which make it safer and easier to ride on uneven surfaces. The bike is available in most toy shops for €54.99. Second-hand baby gear The Baby Market returns to Cork next weekend, with all sorts of pre-loved baby, children, and maternity products available for parents to buy and sell. Taking place in the Ballyphehane Community Centre from noon to 2pm on Sunday, April 27, it's the ideal place for parents-to-be to pick up bits and pieces at affordable prices. Local baby-related businesses, service providers, and craftspeople will also have stalls at the market. Entry to the market costs €8 per person or €9 for a family of four. Solid foods It can be difficult for parents to determine when and how to introduce solid food to their baby safely. A new book by the American Academy of Paediatrics aims to make the process a little easier. Baby Leads the Way is written by a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals, including dietitians, paediatricians, lactation consultants, and allergy specialists, all of whom are mothers. They have put together a straightforward, step-by-step framework that is packed with practical advice. It covers everything from teaching babies to feed themselves to creating balanced meals and modifying dishes to make meals that the whole family can enjoy. The book is released today and it retails for €20. Read More Tots to Teens: Bringing colour to a grey world in Stockingopolis
