Red Cross teenagers take on world challenge

Aimed at the 13 to 15 year age group the weekend sees youngsters coming mainly from Cork, Clare and Louth to the camp which will take place at the Táin Holiday Village, Ballyoonan, Co. Louth.

"Were hoping that by bringing these young people together from different Red Cross branches around the country, that they get a sense of being part of the larger national and international Red Cross movement," says Team Leader, Tom Horwell.

"The global-local relationship, with the Red Cross globally responding to major international crises such as the war in Iraq for example, and the Red Cross locally in Ireland picking-up injured people at concerts or sports fixtures, is what makes the Red Cross so special.

"After all, we have over a hundred branches in Ireland - and a hundred million volunteers worldwide," he pointed out.

"Were hoping to create a strong sense of purpose and identification with the wider Red Cross at our weekend, with a series of mind "games" based around the seven Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross (neutrality, impartiality, humanity, universality, voluntary service, independence and unity) and activities around the famous Red Cross emblem which gives our organisation both its name and its credibility," he added.

But will it all be serious stuff for these young Red Cross members?

"No, absolutely not," laughs Tom. "While as an organisation, the Red Cross plays a very serious, even life-saving role in towns and villages across Ireland, as well as around the world, we are very keen for more young people to join us and the best way is for them to have a positive impression from friends and people they know who are already in the Red Cross.

"Fun and laughter will be a major part of the weekend, with a whole host of really unusual activities organised, including banana-boating, kayaking and archery," said Tom.

The Irish Red Cross annual summer camp takes place this weekend Friday 25 July to Sunday 27 July at the Táin Holiday Village, Ballyoonan, Omeath, Co. Louth. Photographs of the event will be available from Wednesday 30 July. Press Photographers are welcome by prior arrangement and accreditation ONLY.

Ends.