Today, 50 young people from all over Ireland head off on a ten-day voyage aboard three Tall Ships, the Pelican of London, Maybe and Brian Boru. The participants were offered the amazing opportunity to become trainees on a tall ship to experience an exciting voyage leaving Dublin, visiting Wales and finishing up in Cork on the 23rd August 2019. This opportunity was made possible by funding support from the Government of Ireland through the Department of Defence, Dublin City Council and Dublin Port Company.
This is the inaugural Asgard Armada Sail Training Voyage. The project will see twenty-eight 15-17-year olds and twenty-two 18-30-year-olds from all backgrounds and abilities becoming trainee crew members aboard the ships. Skills such as communication, leadership, confidence and teamwork are all developed when onboard a sail training vessel. A key aim is to see a percentage of trainees progressing onto mentoring roles, new employment and other training opportunities.
Trainees were selected by nominating organisations currently working with young people throughout the country, such as the HSE, Cork Life Centre, Educational Training Boards, Manor St John Youth Services, Irish National Organisation for the Unemployed, Foroige, Peter McVerry Trust, Youth Reach, Scouts and Girl Guides.
“We are delighted that this project involves the three ships sailing in convoy, which adds to the adventure for trainees. It is fantastic to provide this opportunity to young people who may not otherwise have had a chance like this” Daragh Sheridan, CEO of Sail Training Ireland.
