I would like to thank Ms Ruth MacNeely, Director of Services at the Mayo Rape Crisis Centre for the invitation to launch this Training DVD.
When the Mayo Rape Crisis Centre first opened its doors back in July 1994 it was the start of something new. A group of women coming together with a common cause has developed over time into what you see before you here today. This is a centre that delivers an ongoing, professional, consistent confidential service to women in the Mayo area. It is a story of success, built on the foundations of compassion, determination, energy and hard work. Its ethos is informed by the values of Equality, Empowerment and Inclusiveness.
The DVD, which I have the pleasure of launching here today, is a testament to those values. However I do not wish to dwell solely on the DVD itself, – but on those who had the courage and self belief to tell their stories. I am speaking in particular of Nicola and Nuala.
You are to be commended, and applauded for your courage and your vision. You in your daily lives overcome barriers and challenges which are daunting. You have used your life’s experiences to inform, educate and challenge us.
President Obama has a phrase "Yes we can". It is an inspiring one.
At its heart is an inclusive message of hope and empowerment. Its beauty is its simplicity. Everyone can relate to it. Its message is that everyone can belong. Everyone can contribute. There is a worth in every persons life – no matter how challenged, how damaged or how low their self esteem. It is the message of hope and redemption. It is a phrase that looks at cynicism, despair, and helplessness and shatters them.
Nicola and Nuala embody that phrase – that Obama sprit. This DVD’s success is primarily down to your contributions. It simply cannot work without you. You have looked at life’s experiences in the face, stood up to them and used them in the most positive way possible – to educate, inform and illuminate issues which need to be confronted. You have said by your contribution – "Yes we can!" We salute you.
This DVD is like a ripple in a pond. Its resonance will be apparent to all who see it. It challenges, informs, educates and most of all shines a light under a dark rock. And that is how it should be. Unfortunately sexual violence still continues to plague our society. It has a devastating effect on victims and their families. This abuse affects people right across our society, affecting people from all walks of life, from all cultural, social and ethnic backgrounds and across all age groups. It should be confronted with vigour, determination and honesty.
Services such as Rape Crisis Centres are crucial in offering support to victims and survivors in relation to abuse both past and present. You are at the forefront of this battle. This DVD we are launching is a potent weapon in your armoury and Nicola and Nuala by their stories are your battle tanks.
Today is a day for celebration and commendation. I wish to thank Dr Margaret Kennedy for her expert advice and assistance.
I also wish to compliment the staff and volunteers who are central to the success of the Mayo Rape Crisis Centre. There is nothing more valuable than time. It is said that time is a great healer. This is what you do - you heal. I particularly wish to acknowledge the 20 volunteers who are presently being trained in this most difficult area. Your expert guidance, allied to your generosity of time will be a resource that is most appreciated.
I note the contribution of The Worldwide Irish Funds for providing the necessary funding so that this Training DVD could be made. I cannot think of a more worthy topic to assist. Well done.
Finally I would like to commend the Mayo Rape Crisis Centre and all other similar centres for the wonderful caring services that they provide. Keep up the good work.