Republican News · Thursday 22 August 2002

Cork women offer Short Strand respite

Mna Le Chéile, a Cork based Women's Forum, has invited families from the Short Strand area of East Belfast to Cork this weekend.

The group made its invitation after following the ongoing attacks on the small nationalist community in An Phoblacht.

Jackie Connolly, chair of the group, said: "We were absolutely shocked to read about the children and the families that are living in the Short Strand area of East Belfast. They are under constant attack from loyalists. We made contact with the Short Strand Community Centre and invited them to send families to Cork City on a well and truly deserved break from these attacks."

A list of events has been planned for this Friday through to Monday, including buffets, evening meals, karaoke, a visit to a Leisureplex and swimming pool, a visit to Fota Wild Life Park, picnics, musical evenings, and historical tours.

The residents will have their accommodation in Cork provided by Mna Le Cheíle, and childminders will also be on hand.

Before returning to Belfast on Monday, the families will meet with the Lord Mayor of Cork and receive a tour of City Hall.