LETTER: Another challenging year for Trócaire

SIR – I would like to thank your readers and all from Co Cork for their loyal support for Trócaire’s work over the past year. We are extremely privileged to work on behalf of the people of Ireland in some of the poorest countries in the world. That work would not be possible without the generosity of parishioners, students, teachers, clergy, volunteers and supporters who believe passionately in remembering those less well off than themselves.

2016 was another challenging year in the fight for global justice. It was a year that saw Trócaire supporting people caught up in war in the Middle East, families trying to survive food shortages in east Africa and communities around the world denied their basic human rights.

The year has seen the continued bloodshed in Syria and millions of Syrians having to take refuge in camps in the Middle East and Europe. Your donations have enabled us to support these people, who fled with nothing and are desperate. 

People are getting essential shelter, food and healthcare and also longer term assistance including training schemes, housing refurbishments and education so families can provide some normality for their children.

For the first time in 2016, the Lenten campaign and Trócaire box featured supporters from here in Ireland, a reminder that by working together we can absolutely make a difference to global problems that can sometimes seem insurmountable. Trócaire is only able to carry out our work on behalf of the people of Ireland because of the wonderful support and goodwill we receive each year. 

On behalf of those we work with, and the families and communities on the ground whose lives you have helped change, I would like to again thank all from Co Cork and wish you a very happy and peaceful new year.

Your sincerely,

Eamonn Meehan,

Executive Director, 

Trócaire, 

Maynooth,

Co Kildare.