The Minister for Employment and Learning, Dr Sean Farren, has highlighted the vital role local groups play in the life of their community.

Performing the official opening of a new IT facility for Cullyhanna Women’s Group in South Armagh, the Minister said: "For over 25 years Cullyhanna Women’s Group has made an invaluable contribution to the education of people in the South Armagh area.

“In many ways, this contribution has helped to sustain the local community, through improved job and career prospects for the men and women who have studied and taken qualifications.

"Without individuals, such as those involved in the group who are prepared to give something back to their community, rural areas cannot survive. I am delighted that the Cullyhanna Women’s Group has gone from strength to strength over their history. Through the provision of this new IT centre, the people of the area can make use of the latest technology to gain training and qualifications, whether to improve their job prospects or to further an interest.”

Dr Farren paid tribute to all involved in bringing the latest technology to the rural areas.

He added: “Initiatives like this can become the lifeblood of a rural area and I wish Cullyhanna Women’s Group continued success for at least the next 25 years."

Formed in 1976 to provide social and learning opportunities for women who were living in a socially disadvantaged area with restricted employment or leisure opportunities, the Cullyhanna Women’s Group IT Centre currently offers 17 computer courses catering for the needs of up to 250 people in any one week. The courses offered range from basic CLAIT courses to RSA stages 1,2,3, Desk Top Publishing and the European Computer Driving Licence. (SP)