Rotary clubs in Ireland marked Rotary Day at the United Nations by making a special presentation to the Irish Army who are about to go on a peacekeeping mission to the Lebanon.
The Kilkenny, Carlow, Newbridge, Raheny, Dublin Fingal, Portlaoise & Youghal Rotary clubs all joined forced to send a shipment of literacy aid to children in Lebanon.
Taking the shipment to Lebanon are the Irish Defence Forces (Óglaigh na hÉireann) who deployed to the Middle East this weekend as part of the 115th United Nations Interim Force Battalion.
Volunteers young and old were on hand to load up education supplies bound for Lebanon.
This was established in 1978 as a peace-keeping operation to support the Lebanese Armed Forces in the south of Lebanon and to also provide humanitarian assistance.
The presentation of literacy equipment was made to Lieutenant Colonel Declan Crummy at the James Stephens Army Barracks in Kilkenny, which is home to the 3rd Infantry Battalion.
This is an excellent international humanitarian aid project at a significant time in the history of Rotary and the United Nations.”
Jason Dempsey, President of Kilkenny Rotary, praised the link between Rotary and the United National. “We have a very interested and shared history,” he said.
“We both try do some good in our communities, collectively coming together to use our skills for the greater good of humanity.
“I’m sure that these similarities have been present for many years.
“That is why it is no surprise to me that back in 1945 a delegation of 11 Rotary officials were invited to join delegations from 50 other nations from across the globe to come together to write the very first United Nations Charter document and form what is the United Nations today.”
Rotary Day at the United Nations, which was marked on November 9th, celebrates the shared vision for peace and highlights the critical humanitarian work with both Rotary and the United Nations lead around the world.
These #PeopleofAction came from all corners of the globe to New York City, where we're honoring them today — #RotaryUNday. Follow along as they share their inspiring stories. https://t.co/Jd0fmYdMrJ pic.twitter.com/7k69lamwLf
— Rotary International (@Rotary) November 9, 2019
The Rotary Ireland literacy project was supported by Stakelum Office Supplies in Thurles, County Tipperary.
Jason Dempsey added: “Stakelum Office Supplies have stepped up and really helped source as much literacy supplies as we could for the modest funds which were gathered.
“I think you will all agree that the amount of stock heading to the Lebanon is sure to make some difference to the lives of young children who don’t have much.
“This is an excellent international humanitarian aid project at a significant time in the history of Rotary and the United Nations as we approach the 75th Anniversary of the formation of the UN.”
