CONFIRMATION AND FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2010
Confirmation will take place on Saturday 8 May 2010 at 11.00am for all Primary 7 pupils.
First Holy Communion for all Primary 4 pupils will take place on Saturday 29 May 2010 at 11.00am.

Strabane parish Co-ordinating Group for the programme:-
Denise McDonald, Caroline Clarke, Ann Marie Mc Mackin, Lucia Dooher, Ann Marie McMenamin, Sr. Carmel, Sr. Benedict, Fr. Boland.

DERRY DIOCESAN CHILD PROTECTION ANNUAL UPDATE

A lot of work has been accomplished in the area of Child Protection in the Diocese over the past number of years due to the commitment of personnel at all levels in the diocese from the Bishop through to dedicated Parish Representatives working on the ground in all parishes.

The Diocese of Derry continues to put in place those structures, personnel, policies and procedures that will try to ensure the protection and welfare of children and young people in a manner consistent with statutory requirements and Church guidelines. In the light of the teaching of the church, Civil Legislation and Guidance, every part of the Church community must be committed to taking the necessary steps to:

*Demonstrate that the right of the child to protection from harm is paramount

*Cherish and safeguard children and young people.

*Foster better practice

*Support Church organisations and personnel in safeguarding children

*Establish safe recruitment and vetting practices - aimed at preventing those who pose a risk to children from holding positions of trust

*Maintain codes of behaviour - having clear guidelines that set out what is and what is not acceptable behaviour as an essential part of keeping children safe

The Diocese now has a Child Protection Committee, Diocesan Co-ordinator, 2 Diocesan Trainers and a network of Parish Representatives.

The trainers deliver information on "best practice" and raise awareness of child protection issues; they also provide support to parishes within the Diocese. In turn the Parish Representatives will pass on this information and raise awareness within their local parish communities. This is done though information evenings that have been and continue to be held throughout the Diocese.

Notices are displayed in our churches which include the Diocesan Policy Statement, contact numbers for statutory authorities of anyone with a concern in relation to child protection or who wish to make an allegation as well as the names and contact numbers of the diocesan delegates.