Galway, 24 October 2006 – A series of high profile keynote speakers will address issues that are facing Ireland's communities today during a keynote seminar series at NUI Galway. Set to occur between November 2006 and September 2007, this keynote series will focus on themes related to civic engagement and active citizenship.

Organised and sponsored by the Community Knowledge Initiative (CKI) at NUI Galway, this keynote series is a response to the increased alienation and declining social commitment that is common in today's communities and will host high profile people who are knowledgeable in these areas. Members of the public are invited to attend the free seminars and tickets will be available from CKI.

• Dr Garret Fitzgerald, Ret. Leader and Chancellor of the NUI, Tuesday, November 14th, 3.00pm - 4.00pm. Speaking on Civic Republicanism and Public Morality
• Mr. Alan Kerins, Alan Kerins African Projects, Thursday, 25th January 2007, 3.00pm - 4.00pm. Speaking on his work with the Cheshire House, volunteering and how important it is today.
• Mrs. Mary Davis, Chair of the Taskforce on Active Citizenship, Thursday, 22nd February 2007, 3.00pm - 4.00pm. Speaking on her work with the Taskforce on Active Citizenship, the Special Olympics and active citizenship in Ireland today
• Mr. Alan Rusbridger, Editor of the Guardian, Friday, 9th March 2007, 3.00pm - 4.00pm. Speaking on his work with the Guardian, as well as Journalism, New Media and Democracy.
• Mr. Maurice Mullard, University of Hull, Reader in Social Policy, Thursday, 19th April 2007, 3.00pm - 4.00pm. Speaking on his work with the University of Hull, citizenship, social policy and the war on terror.
• Ms. Caroline Casey, The Aisling Foundation, Thursday, 27th September 2007, 3.00pm - 4.00pm. Speaking on her work with the Aisling Foundation and active citizenship, as well as the role that volunteering plays in community.

  The Community Knowledge Initiative (CKI) was launched at NUI Galway in June 2001 as a project to promote partnership with communities and to enhance social commitment within communities. Funded by philanthropic donations, the CKI hopes to reinvigorate the civic mission of higher education in Ireland, putting communities at the centre of debate.

  "We very much hope that this keynote seminar series will serve as a means of reinvigorating the civic mission of universities as well as promote the concept of civic responsibility and service within higher education," said Lorraine McIlrath, CKI Project Coordinator.

  For further information, please contact Lorraine McIlrath, CKI Project Coordinator at 091 495234 or email lorraine.mcilrath@nuigalway.ie.

  Information from Christina McDonald Legg, christina.legg@nuigalway.ie

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