Waterford City and County Council Local Authority Integration Team hosts a Warm ‘Welcome to Waterford’
Waterford City and County Council’s Local Authority Integration Team hosted a ‘Welcome to Waterford’ event on February 18th at St. Patrick’s Gateway in Waterford city.
The event, organised to extend a warm and inclusive welcome to new communities in Waterford, including International Protection applicants, Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection, and individuals supported under the Irish Refugee Protection Programme, was formally opened by the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Séamus Ryan.
Welcoming the attendees Mayor Ryan said, “Today is about welcome, belonging and opportunity, creating space for people to connect with services, with each other, and with the wider community.
“It is also a chance to share what makes Waterford special, from our rich history, culture and heritage to our food, music, stories and sense of place, shaped over generations by people, movement and shared experience.”
Mayor Ryan concluded, “Music from the Relics Duo, reflections on the city’s history, and the voice of someone who has built a positive life here all capture the true spirit of today – inclusion, dignity and hope.”
A broad range of key stakeholders were in attendance, including the HSE, INTREO, Buíon Phort Láirge, Waterford Integration Service, Irish Red Cross, Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board, Local Enterprise Office Waterford, and local community centres. Representatives provided accessible information and guidance on health, education, employment, training, and community support services available locally.
St. Patrick’s Gateway has been a place of welcome and gathering since the 1720s, making it a fitting venue for this event fostering connection, belonging and community spirit.
Food served reflecting Waterford’s rich food heritage; the Waterford Blaa, Denny’s Rashers and Flahavan’s Oats, added to the sense of welcome and shared cultural experience.
Music provided by The Relics Duo created a social and relaxed atmosphere. Attendees also enjoyed a short, commissioned performance celebrating Waterford as Ireland’s Oldest City, written and performed by actor Michael Power, highlighting the city’s rich history, heritage, and culture. A contribution from a member of one of Waterford’s new communities, Homayoon Shirzad, who shared his positive experience of integrating into Irish life, rounded off a very special event of welcome and inclusion.
