We celebrated our 30th Anniversary on the 17th September at the Lavit Gallery. It was so lovely to be joined by founding members Terry O’Regan and Ger Mullally as well as previous coordinator Patrick Treacy. Great to see so many friends of the Forum there. Terry gave an insight into the early years, acknowledging how instrumental former Cork County Council Manager Noel Dillon (RIP) played in supporting our establishment, as well as the importance of volunteers such as Breda Murphy, the Directors and our first Coordinator Jacqi Hodgson. This was followed by a 30 year retrospective film, thanks to Karla Goodman, MTM for sticking it all seamlessly together and giving a snapshot of some of the activities over the three decades.
Founding Director of CEF & Dearbhla Richardson
Our special guest speaker was Dearbhla Richardson, climate justice activist, who gave a very eloquent and impactful presentation on her personal journey to becoming an activist, her representation at COP27 & 28 and her current work as a lead campaigner on the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Stop Shannon LNG coalition. Despite the reality of the huge challenges we collectively face across the globe, Dearbhla’s message was one peppered with humour and hope as she said “Pessimism is not an option”. A very inspiring and motivating message from Dearbhla as we face into the next chapter of The Environmental Forum.
Earlier at the AGM, Chairperson, Isabelle Sutton made a presentation and thanked retiring Board members Caitríona Courtney and Juan Camarasa.
Many thanks to Brian, Ita and all the team at the Lavit Gallery for hosting us. Thanks to Clare, Christian and team at Good Day Deli for the wonderful food and Jorge and the band that is the Underscore Orkestra. To the Board of Directors, the staff, the members, our funders and all those we work with and collaborate with us we are grateful to all who have contributed to the Forum over the decades and those who continue to do so today.
