A centre of friendship for the community

There is no prouder moment for the volunteers who teach English language lessons at Virginia Show Centre to new community arrivals than when one of their students returns having secured a job or even a place on a training course.

The lessons are facilitated by Fáilte Isteach, a community project involving predominantly older volunteers welcoming migrants through conversational English classes. The Virginia group has played a key role in smoothing the pathway for hundreds of Ukrainian refugees trying to rebuild their lives here. The free classes focus on basic conversational skills and also practical language for job interviews, health appointments, and travel.

Eithne Barry tells the Celt that teaching English helps learners regain their independence and grow in confidence in their new environment.

She felt helpless watching the news as Russia invaded Ukraine, and saw this as a way to foster a welcoming environment and reduce feelings of isolation among the refugees.

“We concentrate on the conversational element, and the friendship. The friendship is a very big part of it,” says Eithne.

Cait ní Rián is the Fáilte Isteach co-ordinator in Virginia, and other volunteers include Eithne, Declan Cooney, Monica Farrelly, Kathleen Duffy, Fergus Cronin, Deirdre Hawthorne, Pat Heatherton, Penelope Vigné and Nora Márie Ní Loingsigh, among others.

The volunteers often go beyond teaching the language itself, offering cultural orientation and support as well. For example, local customs and even cookery classes.

“We really feel we have created a special bond with the Ukrainian people in Virginia,” Eithne adds.

An often overlooked element of this story is the value of the Virginia Show Centre as a focal point for delivering supports in a warm and supportive environment.

In recognition of their support for Ukrainian refugees, the centre received funding from the government which they used to tarmac the outside of the property.

Next February will mark 10 years since the Show Centre first opened its doors.

In that time, it has hosted everything from meetings to training sessions, exhibitions, a wide array of events for community groups, State agencies, as well as burgeoning SMEs.

Perhaps what the centre is best known for is hosting the annual agricultural show and the world-renowned Bailey’s Cow contest. In more recent times, and following further investment, its large events hall became home to the East Cavan Eagles Basketball, not to mention Jumping Jelly Beans for children with additional needs, Active Virginians, Virginia Men’s Shed, Macra na Feirme, ICA, HSE support services, the Business Network Ireland, and many others.

In 2024 the centre hosted the Men’s Shed Fest and its first international basketball competition. It was also delighted to accommodate Ramor United GFC, Lavey GFC and Knockbride GFC Clubs in their respective fundraising efforts.

Looking to expand that remit even further, Kathleen Duffy explains that the centre recently completed a new feasibility study in order to develop a clear strategy for the future.

“This is very much about community, and the centre is at the heart of that,” regards Kathleen.

“It’s more than just the Show Centre. It’s ‘home’ for a lot of groups in the town here. There is never a day that the lights aren’t on.”

‘Home’ is a word which means quite a lot to Philip Tkalenko from Berdiansk. He still has family living there. When he and his family first came to Ireland as refugees, they were put up in City West before being moved to Kerry. They’re “very happy” however to have found a safe location like Virginia.

Philip owned and ran a clothing apparel company in Ukraine before the war wiped it out.

He felt it was important to learn English if they were to start trying to rebuild their lives.

“From the first day. It’s the first thing I need. I want to communicate with Irish people, to build my new life.”

He says of the volunteers leading the classes: “I really appreciate our volunteers, our teachers. They really have a big heart. So we appreciate the opportunity we have.”