Jan 2008
EMBRACE ‘Who’s who? Who’s here?’ leaflet available.
EMBRACE have prepared a leaflet entitled ‘Who’s who? Who’s here?’ which gives summary information relating to commonly asked questions concerning people seeking asylum, refugees, migrants and migrant workers who come to N Ireland. For more information or to obtain free copies, please contact our office.

May 2008
EMBRACE AGM
Deirdre Coghlan provided the keynote address, ‘Life in the Shadows: An Exploration of Irregular Migration in Ireland’ in which she helped explain the different situations which lead to people having irregular immigration status including examples from her research in Dublin. David Craig of Mountpottinger Presbyterian Church in Belfast shared the experience of the congregation as they built relationships with two African families and supported them when their applications for asylum failed.

Committee elections
At the AGM the following were re-elected to the committee: Scott Boldt (Chairperson), Paddy Donnelly, Lynda Gould, Tim Foley, Richard Kerr (Treasurer), Margaret McNulty, Paul Turley, Brighde Vallely and Denise Wright (Secretary/Vice-Chairperson). In addition Perry Gildea and Maura McCallion were newly elected onto the committee.

Sept 2008
Thank you to St Clement’s
As the St Clement’s Retreat Centre in Belfast closes, EMBRACE pays tribute to the the role of the Redemptorists there, under the leadership of Michael Kelleher, for their support for EMBRACE from its inception and their interest and participation in welcoming migrant people. In addition EMBRACE has enjoyed the service of Paul Turley on the committee, valuing his friendship and spiritual insights.

Dec 2008
EMBRACE helps facilitate the annual NICRAS Christmas Party
On the evening of Wednesday 17th December the NICRAS Christmas party for people seeking asylum and refugees was held at City Church Belfast. The evening included children’s entertainment, food and music.EMBRACE greatly appreciates the assistance given by Committee, members, friends, the catering team and party planner, Selwan.