Glencree Set to Mark 50 Years of Peacebuilding and Introduces New Board

 

23/4/24: As we prepare to mark the 50th anniversary of the Glencree Centre for Peace & Reconciliation and begin to look forward to the next 50 years, we are pleased to reflect on our achievements and the impact of our current work, and to outline our renewed sense of purpose and determination to expand our reach and deepen our impact in the years ahead.

Since 1974 and our early work in the Irish peace process, Glencree has dedicated its efforts to bringing groups and individuals impacted by conflict together to help them build relationships and trust across divides. As a result of our work in facilitating confidential dialogue and shared learning, Glencree has supported and strengthened the ability of individuals, communities and institutions to develop pathways to social change, political reconciliation and intercultural integration.

The strength of Glencree’s operations, peacebuilding work, reputation and standing across the island of Ireland, the UK, and within the international peacebuilding community is a testament to the dedication of our team and commitment to our mission over many years. In this time of war and conflict in areas around the world and increasing unrest closer to home, Glencree’s mission is more crucial than ever. As we embark on this anniversary year, our focus remains steadfastly on advancing peace and reconciliation, fostering relationships and dialogue, and promoting inclusive, diverse societies.

To drive this mission forward, we are delighted to introduce our new Board of Directors who bring diverse perspectives, expertise and experiences to our organisation. Our six new Board members are:

  • James Bridgeman SC: Barrister and senior counsel with extensive boardroom leadership, arbitration and mediation experience across multiple jurisdictions.
  • Geoffrey Corry: Founding member of Glencree with expertise in mediation and political dialogue facilitation.
  • Robin Hanan: Former NGO leader specialising in intercultural and refugee work, strategy and charity governance.
  • Valerie Bistany: Experienced mediator, arts producer and NGO leader, with particular focus on all-island collaborations.
  • Aidan Horan: Chartered accountant specialising in corporate governance, risk management and boardroom advisory.
  • Tom Arnold: Economist with diverse leadership roles in governmental and non-governmental bodies at national, European and international levels.
  • Led by Board Chair James Bridgeman, this new Board will work alongside CEO Naoimh McNamee and the Glencree team to re-energise our focus on our mission and steady the course for Glencree's legacy of peacebuilding and reconciliation work to thrive. Over the coming months, this will include further expanding the Board to ensure a robust and diverse range of expertise, skillsets and qualifications.

    We thank our stakeholders for their continued support, confidence and partnership as we turn into the next chapter in Glencree’s history and our work for a more peaceful and inclusive future.

    James Bridgeman, SC, Chair

    Naoimh McNamee, CEO

    Ends.

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