A wonderful occasion took place in Caoineas, Ballinasloe on Thursday February 19th last – the signing of a new four year MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) between the Sisters of Mercy – Western Province and Vita.
Caitlín Conneely, Provincial Leader Western Province, warmly welcomed John Weakliam, CEO Vita; Ciara Burke, Communications and Marketing, Vita; and John Gillinan, Vita. She also welcomed Srs. Juliet Walsh, Mary Glynn, Breege Donohoe, Margaret Tiernan and Loreto Hogge.
John Weakliam, Vita and Caitlín Conneely, Provincial, Western Province
Caitlín marked the occasion of the signing ceremony by saying a few powerful words: “Our role, as we see it, is to protect the integrity of creation,” she commented. “We are confident that the partnership with Vita not only enables us to achieve this, but also it allows us to reach into the very heart of the communities we serve and make a real difference.”
The following short video clip gives a little of Caitlín’s address.
To play, click on the arrow, ensure your speakers are turned up and enjoy!
https://youtu.be/hUUKWWDiWLg
John Weakliam, CEO Vita, was delighted to renew this innovative partnership, and said, “the new partnership we have signed made for a highly auspicious occasion and I speak for the Board of Vita, the staff in Ireland and Ethiopia, and our partners, in expressing our great appreciation.” He also stated that, “partnerships like this one, where development is community led and delivered through valued strategic partnerships, are the model for next generation development. The Sisters of Mercy Western Province have shown true leadership in recognising the appalling toll that climate change is having on the already impoverished farm families in Ethiopia and Eritrea.”
The following short video clip shows John Weakliam sharing his appreciation.
https://youtu.be/Xt8Um5UApWE
Following the signing of the MoU, we were welcomed to a delicious meal in the relaxed and homely atmosphere of Caoineas.
Members of Vita, Provincial Team and Provincial Working Group
After the meal, discussions continued on possible future plans for the next four years. As we came to the end of our day John Weakliam expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Mercy Sisters for their continued commitment and support. He said, “through this partnership we are more than ever energised to succeed in our ambitious endeavours”
We the Vita and Lifestyle Choices Group wish to express our thanks to all of the Sisters in the province, for your vibrant support for this project.
Loreto Hogge rsm
Western Province
