Pictures: It's Fáilte Isteach as Kilkenny communities celebrate different cultures at awards ceremony

The Fr McGrath Resource Centre has long been a beacon for newcomers, guiding people as they build a life in Ireland.

Through close collaboration with other agencies, the centre acts as a bridge into the wider community, creating pathways to local activities and services. It is a place where connections spark and relationships take root, where new immigrants find steady support as they learn to navigate Irish society with confidence and dignity.

That spirit of welcome was on full display at the annual Fáilte Isteach English Awards Ceremony, one of the centre’s many initiatives. An eclectic gathering of cultures filled the room, celebrating progress made through English classes that have eased loneliness and strengthened everyday communication for hundreds of learners.

The centre understands that real inclusion comes from both reaching out and valuing difference. Its ethos blends hospitality and respect for diversity with a strong commitment to local belonging.

“This Project is not only providing conversational English,” said co-ordinator Theresa Delahunty. “Participants are linked to a range of other social, community and educational activities”.

The Project’s learning model is intentionally relaxed and unstructured, designed to put people at ease. Through conversation the tutors identify immediate needs and focus on fluency and confidence, meaning learners can practice the language that matters most in the moment – making an appointment, speaking to a teacher, chatting with a neighbour – while receiving a genuine welcome.

The Fr McGrath Centre also provides a social space that brings learners together with the indigenous community, ensuring that language learning is woven into everyday life. In pairing lessons with friendships, the Fáilte Isteach Project turns progress in English into real opportunities to belong, participate, and thrive.

As fluency grows, families are getting to know their Irish neighbours and joining in local life. Better English is opening doors to employment, training, and vital services, allowing newcomers to share their talents and contribute fully to Irish society.

At the ceremony, Mayor of Kilkenny John Coonan presented certificates and commended participants for their diligence and the richness they bring to Irish life through culture, talent and work. He thanked learners for their commitment and highlighted the wider benefits of their achievements for the local workforce and civic life.

There was heartfelt appreciation for those who make the programme possible. Volunteer tutors received service awards and were praised by Stephen Murphy, Director of Services at the Fr McGrath Centre, for their sustained dedication.

“They are making a real and lasting difference by supporting migrants to improve their English language skills,” he said, praising the tutors. “Their steady guidance, week after week, is helping learners gain confidence and independence.”

Representatives from Kilkenny Leader Partnership, the Volunteer Centre, the Local Authority Integration Team, and the Public Participation Network attended, reflecting the co-operative spirit that powers inclusion.