Moate community praised for support of refugees and asylum seekers in 2025
By Rebekah O'Reilly
New Horizon Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support Group has paid tribute to the people and organisations of Moate for their “extraordinary kindness and solidarity” as the group reflects on the year past and looks ahead to 2026.
As 2025 drew to a close, Maria Flanagan, Project Manager and Integration Support Worker with New Horizon Refugee and Asylum Seeker Support Group, expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of its members, including residents seeking international protection who are living at Temple Accommodation Centre and the Grand Hotel.
Many of these residents have given their time generously by volunteering with local organisations such as Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park, Moate Tidy Towns, The Tuesday Club and St Mary’s Church in Moate.
“For all that they do, quietly and without applause, we thank them for their commitment, their time and the care they show to the community that has welcomed them,” a spokesperson for New Horizon said.
“They are a valued and appreciated part of our community," Maria said.
She also acknowledged the many individuals and organisations who have helped foster inclusion and belonging throughout the year. Special thanks were extended to participants in the weekly Walk and Talk group, praised not only for sharing their time and homemade treats, but for offering friendship, compassion, respect and solidarity.
Intercultural initiatives were highlighted as a cornerstone of connection, including the Fáilte Isteach English language tutors, Moate Library for hosting classes and events, Sanctuary Runners, and the Ubuntu Voice Choir, supported by Music Generation Westmeath.
A number of local organisations were also recognised for providing welcoming and supportive spaces, including The Tuesday Club, Moate Tidy Towns, Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park, and Tuar Ard Theatre.
Sports clubs were similarly commended for creating inclusive opportunities for active participation, with thanks given to Midland Warriors RUFC, Temple Villa AFC and Moate Sports & Recreation Centre.
Mariaalso expressed gratitude to those who helped in quieter, everyday ways, from offering guidance on jobs, accommodation, education and volunteering, to donating clothes, providing lifts, or simply sharing a friendly greeting.
“All of these acts of kindness support people seeking sanctuary as they adjust to life in Moate,” she said. “No act of kindness is ever too small. ”
Looking ahead, New Horizon invited anyone interested in getting involved to join the group’s activities in 2026, welcoming new ideas and energy.
The group emphasised that all are welcome, regardless of age, nationality or ability, and reaffirmed its commitment to values of love, unity, friendship, respect, solidarity and compassion.
“We hope 2026 brings unity, peace and love in our community and across the world,” Maria concluded, “and that we can continue to create welcoming spaces where we can build connections and friendships so everyone who lives here feels a deep sense of belonging.”