The new centre’s official launch was a significant occasion for everyone involved and there was a pleasing moment when Mrs. Joanna McVey, Chairwoman, Rural Development Council Northern Ireland, and Mrs. Irene Hughes, who has a long association with Tamlaght W.I., unveiled a commemorative plaque - to mark the special milestone.

    Earlier, guests were greeted to the strains of a piper and there was a warm, friendly, atmosphere at the new development, located on the edge of Tamlaght, a short distance from Enniskillen.

    Many words of congratulation were extended to Tamlaght W.I. on its achievement and the guest speakers acknowledged members’ efforts.

    Mr. Rodney Connor, Chief Executive, Fermanagh District Council, commented that not only is the new centre the first purpose-built Women’s Institute Centre in Fermanagh, but, he understood it is the first new Women’s Institute Centre to have been built in Northern Ireland for at least 30 years.

    “Fermanagh and, in particular, Fermanagh women, are once again ‘ahead of the rest’,” said, Mr. Connor, who continued: “Your Centre is indeed both a recognition and a reward for your Institute’s work and perseverance since you were founded in 1944 and the Council recognises the important role that Tamlaght Women’s Institute and the County’s 10 other institutes play in the social life of the communities where you are located.”

    Mr. Connor said that he knows it is always dangerous to single out individuals after such a successful project has been completed. And for such a success, he said many individuals and groups must be involved but in particular he mentioned Adeline Lee, Iris Mahon, Josie Muldoon and Beck Hurst, of the Building Fund Committee.

    “Their efforts were tireless,” commented Mr. Connor, who congratulated everyone involved and said “well done to Tamlaght Women’s Institute.”

    “I can assure you that your good work in the community is recognised, valued and respected.”

    Mrs. Beck Hurst reflected on the history and background of Tamlaght W.I. from 1944 to 1996 and recalled that it was formed as a result of a public meeting in 1944 under the direction of the W.I. headquarters.

    Mrs. Hurst recollected the purchase of the Nissen hut and its erection in Tamlaght - first in the centre of the village and later at the current site.

    During Tamlaght W.I.’s 53 years until 1996, she says it has always been able to maintain its membership to around 30 plus. She spoke about the various activities the organisation is engaged in and she said W.I. has played an important part in her life.

    Adeline Lee, Hall Building Fund secretary, spoke about funding for the project and she paid tribute to Jim Ledwith of Fermanagh District Council.

    Mrs. Iris Mahon, Hall Building Fund treasurer, expressed gratitude to their various funders and those involved in the development.

    Mrs. Joan Shanks, of Federation headquarters, thanked Tamlaght W.I. for inviting her to join them on the memorable occasion and she went on to congratulate the members on this marvellous achievement.

    Lady Anthony Hamilton, Federation President, and member of Tamlaght W.I. added her congratulations and she spoke of her admiration for those involved.

    As well as thanking Mr. Ledwith, she welcomed Federation Chairwoman, Mrs. Shanks, and Federation secretary, Mrs. Irene Sproule, while she also greeted Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Maguire, who have a long association with Tamlaght W.I. In fact, it was noted that Mrs. Maguire’s name was listed as secretary when Tamlaght W.I. was founded.

    Mrs. Joanna McVey told the gathering that one of the pleasures for her of being involved with the Rural Development Council is having the opportunity to see at first hand some of the many projects which have been implemented by community organisations around rural Northern Ireland.

    She said that she was delighted to have this opportunity to congratulate Tamlaght Women’s Institute on the official opening of “this splendid new building” and she said the trustees of this centre are to be commended.

    Mrs. McVey commented that she had nothing but admiration for Adeline and Iris and the other members of Tamlaght W.I.

    “They were determined to succeed - and they have,” said Mrs. McVey, adding: “What has now been assured, with the creation of this new centre, is the consolidation of the Institute’s current activities. But it also allows for expansion of the Centre’s community education role and the opportunity to offer more facilities, both locally and for the county.”

    In addition, Mrs. McVey indicated that the RDC, in its capacity as an Intermediary Funding Body for the European Union Special Support Programme for Peace and Reconciliation is delighted to have played a part in supporting the happy outcome.

    She acknowledged the commitment and dedication of the trustees and she said she had no doubt that great things will be achieved with the Centre.

    Mrs. Hughes, who unveiled the plaque with Mrs. McVey, said that to perform the official opening of the new centre was an honour she appreciated and she expressed her gratitude.

    “I assure you that this will be one of the outstanding highlights in my life,” said Mrs. Hughes, who extended congratulations on such “a magnificent building.” She said it gave her pleasure in declaring it open and she wished it well.

    Mr. Jim Ledwith recited a specially written poem, entitled “The Truth, the Whole Truth and nothing but the Truth” which told the story of the project in an amusing fashion.

    He later spoke about his work with communities and said that he really enjoyed forming friendships - which he says is what it is all about.

    Mr. Ledwith said congratulations to Tamlaght W.I. and wished it success.

    Mrs. Evelyn Johnston led the singing of the Country Women’s Song and the special afternoon programme included a number of presentations, followed by the cutting of the cake by Mrs. Jean Noble and Mrs. Elsie Graham. Afternoon tea was served.