## TUARASCÁIL AONACH MHACHA 2023/24 Aonach Mhacha’s 2023/24 Annual Report Curtha i Láthair ag CCB ar 07.02.25 / Presented at AGM on 07.02.25 ## **An Clár /Contents** **1. Réamhrá agus Fáilte/ Introduction and Welcome** **2. Rialachas agus Struchtúr/ Governance and Structure** **3. Obair an Bhainisteora Ionaid agus Forbartha/ Centre & Development Manager’s Portfolio** **4. Obair an Oifigigh Forbartha Gaeilge/ The Irish Language Development Officer’s Portfolio** **5. Forbhreathnú Airgeadais/Financial Overview** **6. Gníomhaíochtaí agus Gnóthachtáil 2024/ Activities and Achievements 2024** **7. Éifeacht agus For-rochtain/ Impact and Outreach** **8. Spriocanna agus Pleananna Straitéiseacha Don Bhliain Amach Romhainn** **9. Comhlíonadh agus Cuntasacht/ Compliance and Accountability** **10. Admhálacha / Acknowledgements** **11. Tuarascáil Airgeadais Aonach Mhacha / Aonach Mhacha Financial Report** 2 ## **1. RÉAMHRÁ AGUS FÁILTE/ INTRODUCTION AND WELCOME** ## **Teachtaireacht ón Chathaoirleach – Achoimre Fheidhmeach** ## A Chairde, Is cúis mhór bhróid dom Tuarascáil Bhliantúil Aonach Mhacha 2024 a chur faoi bhur mbráid. Is athléimneacht, fás agus machnamh na focail is ábhartha a ritheann liom agus mé ag smaointiú siar ar obair an Bhoird in 2024. Dhírigh obair an Bhoird ar thacaíocht a thabhairt dár bpobal, an Ghaeilge agus an cultúr Gaelach a chur chun cinn, agus inbhuanaitheacht fhadtéarmach an ionaid galánta atá againn in Ard Mhacha a chosaint. ## **Rialachas agus Cuntasacht** Tá an Bord diongbháilte i gcónaí maidir le caighdeáin láidre rialachais a chaomhnú. In 2024, rinne muid athbhreithniú ar ár bpróisis airgeadais agus ar ár bpolasaithe oibriúcháin chun comhlíonadh rialacháin carthanais agus dea-chleachtais a chinntiú. Cuireadh cuntais airgeadais faoi bhráid an Rialálaí Carthanas de réir ár n-oibleagáidí, cé go n-aithníonn muid gur cuireadh moill le cur isteach na gcuntas. De thoradh sin, tá bearta nua déanta againn chun tuairisciú tráthúil a chinntiú amach anseo. ## **Bainistíocht Foirne agus Comharbais** Tá pleanáil chomharbais ina tosaíocht reatha againn fosta agus muid ag iarraidh leanúnachas ár n- oibríochtaí a chinntiú, rud atá go fóill le críochnú. Chuige sin, d'fhaomh an Bord ceapachán Bainisteoir Ionaid agus Forbartha nua, rud a chuir go mór lenár bhfoireann. Is tábhachtach liom a lua go bhfuil tiomantas ár bhfoirne, go háirithe i seachadadh cláir Ghaeilge agus imeachtaí cultúrtha, le moladh. ## **An Éifeacht Chultúrtha i Measc an Phobail** Tá ag éirí go maith le hAonach Mhacha mar mhol do chur chun na Gaeilge, an chultúir ghaelaigh agus d'fhorbairt an phobail. In 2024, bhí ár ranganna Gaeilge iomlán lán, rud a tharraing aird ar an ardú san éileamh ar fhoghlaim na Gaeilge. Léiríodh in imeachtaí ar nós an tionscnaimh mheabhairshláinte ár gcumas rannpháirtíocht an phobail a chothú. Cé go raibh dúshláin ann i dtaca le roinnt imeachtaí, d'úsáid muid na heispéiris sin mar dheiseanna foghlama chun ár bhfor-rochtain agus ár bpleanáil a fheabhsú. ## **Caifé Mhacha, Píobairí Ard Mhacha agus Tacaíocht do Thionóntaí** Spriocanna móra tábhachtacha ab ea iad lucht spéise a mhealladh isteach Aonach Mhacha mar thionóntaí agus aistriú Caifé Mhacha chuig bainistíocht nua. Tá áthas ar an Bhord a thuairisciú go bhfuil Caifé Mhacha ag dul ó neart go neart faoina bhainistíocht nua, le baill foirne atá in ann freastal ar chustaiméirí i nGaeilge agus i mBéarla araon agus go bhfuil Píobairí Ard Mhacha linn ó bhí Meán Fómhair 2024 ann. Cuirim fearadh na fáilte rompu, beirt. De thoradh athoscailt Chaifé Mhacha agus oifigí oscailte ag Píobairí Ard Mhacha in Aonach Mhacha rinneadh Aonach Mhacha a athbheochan. Tá siad beirt ag cur go mór le hAonach Mhacha mar mhol teanga, cultúrtha agus pobail. Agus é tiomanta do chur chun cinn na Gaeilge mar chroí-ghné, tá Caifé Mhacha anois ina tharraingt mhór san ionad agus tá Píobairí Ard Mhacha, club a bhfuil clú agus cáil air, ag tarraingt clú agus cáil ar Aonach Mhacha ó thaobh an cheoil de. 3 Lena chois sin, tá céimeanna glactha againn chun aghaidh a thabhairt ar riachtanais tionóntaí le stóráil shlán a chur ar fáil agus le rochtain ar shaoráidí comhroinnte a chinntiú le haghaidh úsáide i ndiaidh uaireanta oibre. ## **Ag Amharc Chun Cinn** Agus muid ag ullmhú do 2025, áirítear ar ár dtosaíochtaí: - Inbhuanaitheacht ó thaobh ioncaim de a neartú trí fhoinsí éagsúla ioncaim. - Cláir Ghaeilge agus tairiscintí cultúrtha a leathnú. - Cleachtais rialachais agus rannpháirtíocht páirtithe leasmhara a fheabhsú. - Aghaidh a thabhairt ar chothabháil saoráidí agus feabhas a chur ar sheirbhísí tionóntaí. Mar bhlaiseadh ar a mbeidh ag titim amach in 2025, tá muid ag súil go mór le seachtain spleodrach imeachtaí a reáchtáil le linn sheachtain Lá Fhéile Pádraig 2025, a chuirfidh go mór le clú agus cáil Aonach Mhacha mar bhunchloch de cheiliúradh teanga agus cultúir. ## **Buíochas** Gabhaim buíochas ó chroí lenár mbaill reatha agus lenár n-iarbhaill Boird, lenár bhfoireann (idir iarbhaill foirne agus bhaill reatha foirne), lenár ndeontóirí, lenar maoinitheoirí, lenár n-oibrithe deonacha agus leis an phobal i gcoitinne as a ndíograis, a ndúthracht agus as a dtacaíocht sheasmhach. Le chéile, cinnteoidh muid go bhfanfaidh Aonach Mhacha mar lóchrann ar theanga, ar chultúr agus ar mhórtas pobail. Mise, le meas, ## **An Dr. Micheál Ó Duibh Cathaoirleach Aonach Mhacha** 4 ## **Chairperson’s Message - Summary** ## A Chairde, It is with great pride that I present this Chairperson’s Report for the 2024 Annual General Meeting of Aonach Mhacha. The past year has been one of resilience, growth, and reflection as we have continued to serve our community, promote the Irish language and Irish culture, and ensure the sustainability of our invaluable centre in Armagh. ## **Governance and Accountability** The Board has remained steadfast in upholding strong governance standards. This year, we reviewed our financial processes and operational policies to ensure compliance with charity regulations and best practices. The submission of financial accounts to the Charity Commission was completed in accordance with our obligations, although we acknowledge some delays in previous submissions and have taken steps to address this with new measures to ensure timely reporting in the future. ## **Staff and Succession Management** Succession planning to ensure the continuity of our operations is an ongoing focus. As a part of this, the Board approved the appointment of a new Centre and Development Manager, which has significantly bolstered our leadership team. It must be noted that our staff’s dedication, particularly in the delivery of Irish language programmes and cultural events, is commendable. ## **Cultural and Community Impact** The centre continues to thrive as a hub for Irish language, culture and community development. In 2024, our classes in Irish language reached full capacity, highlighting the growing demand for language learning. Events such as the mental health initiative showcased our ability to foster community engagement. While some events faced challenges we used these experiences as learning opportunities to improve our outreach and planning. ## **Caifé Mhacha, Armagh Pipers Club and Tenant Support** The transition of Caifé Mhacha to new management has been a significant milestone. The Board is delighted to report that Caifé Mhacha is thriving under its new management, with staff who can serve customers in both Irish and English and Armagh Pipers Club decided to open offices in Aonach Mhacha. I wish to warmly welcome them both to Aonach Mhacha. These vibrant additions has revitalised Aonach Mhacha, reinforcing its role as a language, cultural and community hub. Committed to promoting the Irish language as a core feature, Caifé Mhacha has become a central attraction. Aonach Mhacha is proud to have Armagh Pipers Club in its building.. Their esteemed reputation in traditional Irish music further strengthens Aonach Mhacha’s status as a hub for the traditional music. Furthermore, we have taken steps to address tenant needs by providing secure storage and ensuring access to shared facilities for after-hours use. ## **Looking Ahead** As we prepare for 2025, our priorities include: - Strengthening financial stability through diversified income sources. - Expanding Irish language programmes and cultural offerings. 5 - Enhancing governance practices and stakeholder engagement. - Addressing facility maintenance and improving tenant services. As a taster of what can be expected in 2025, we eagerly anticipate hosting an exciting week of events during the week of St. Patrick’s Day 2025, which promises to further solidify Aonach Mhacha’s reputation as a cornerstone of language and cultural celebration. ## **Acknowledgments** I extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated Board members (past and current), our funders and donors, our staff and volunteers, and the wider community for their unwavering support. Together, we are ensuring that Aonach Mhacha remains a beacon of Irish culture and community pride. Mise, le meas, **Dr Micheál Ó Duibh** Chairperson, Aonach Mhacha 6 ## **2. RIALACHAS AGUS STRUCHTÚR/ GOVERNANCE AND STRUCTURE** ## **Achoimriú ar Mhisean agus ar Fhís Aonach Mhacha** **Misean:** Dírítear i misean Aonach Mhacha ar chur chun cinn na Gaeilge, an oideachais agus na n- ealaíon traidisiúnta, agus ar léiriú na hoidhreachta agus chultúr na Gaeilge, go háirithe i measc phobal na Gaeilge agus an phobail i gcoitinne i gceantar Ard Mhacha. Tá sé mar aidhm ag Aonach Mhacha forbairt sa phobal a chothú tríd seo a leanas: - An Ghaeilge, an ceol, an drámaíocht, an fhilíocht, an litríocht, na hamharcealaíona, an spórt agus an stair a chur chun cinn. - Rannpháirtíocht i ngníomhaíochtaí cultúrtha traidisiúnta na nGael a spreagadh trí ranganna, ceardlanna agus imeachtaí. - Tacú le grúpaí cultúrtha agus leis an phobal trí áiseanna a chur ar fáil agus trí chomhoibriú a chothú. **Fís:** Amharcann Aonach Mhacha air féin mar mhol cultúrtha spreagúil a dhéanann nascadh pobail a neartú tríd an Ghaeilge agus oidhreacht a cheiliúradh agus a athmhuscailt. Is é an sprioc atá aige ná a bheith ina lárionad ar éiríonn leis ina léiriú ar chultúr, ina thiomantas don oideachas agus ina rannpháirtíocht leis na healaíona, rudaí a chuirfidh le caomhnú agus le forbairt féiniúlacht teanga agus chultúrtha Ard Mhacha. ## **A Brief Overview of Aonach Mhacha’s Mission and Vision** **Mission:** Aonach Mhacha’s mission focuses on the promotion of the Irish language, advancement of education and the showcasing traditional arts, heritage, and Irish culture, particularly among Irishspeaking communities and the wider public in the Armagh area. Aonach Mhacha aims to foster community development by: - Promoting the Irish language, music, drama, poetry, literature, visual arts, sport, and history. - Encouraging participation in traditional Irish cultural activities through classes, workshops, and events. - Supporting cultural and community groups by providing facilities and fostering collaboration. **Vision:** Aonach Mhacha envisions itself as a dynamic cultural hub that strengthens community connections through the celebration and revitalisation of the Irish language and heritage. Its goal is to become a thriving centre for cultural expression, education, and artistic engagement, contributing to the preservation and development of the linguistic and cultural identity of Armagh. 7 ## **Róil agus Freagrachtaí** ## **Stiúrthóirí** - Rialachas: Oibríochtaí a bhainistiú agus dlíthe agus beartais ábhartha a chomhlíonadh. - Cinnteoireacht: Comhchinntí a dhéanamh ag cruinnithe atá córam; is féidir rúin a chomhaontú i scríbhinn fosta. - Toscaireacht: Tascanna a tharmligean chuig coistí ach téarmaí taifeadta acu agus iad freagrach don bhord. - Coinbhleachtaí Leasa: Coinbhleachtaí a dhearbhú agus staonadh ó dhíospóireachtaí nó vótaí a bhaineann leo. - Maoirseacht Airgeadais: Cuntais chruinne, tuarascálacha bliantúla, agus comhlíonadh na rialachán airgeadais a chinntiú. ## **Baill** - Ballraíocht: Ar fáil do dhaoine aonair nó d'eagraíochtaí atá faofa ag na stiúrthóirí. Tá ballraíocht neamh-inaistrithe. - Cruinnithe Ginearálta: Glacann comhaltaí páirt i gcinnteoireacht trí chruinnithe ginearálta, lena n-áirítear Cruinnithe Cinn Bliana (CCBanna). Teastaíonn tromlach 75% de na rúin speisialta. - Cearta Vótála: Tá vóta amháin ag gach ball, agus is féidir le heagraíochtaí ionadaithe a ainmniú. - Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil in Meamram agus Airteagail Aonach Mhacha. ## **Roles and Responsibilities** ## **Directors** - Governance: Manage the charity's operations and comply with relevant laws and policies. - Decision-Making: Make collective decisions at meetings with a quorum; resolutions can also be agreed in writing. - Delegation: Delegate tasks to committees with recorded terms and accountability to the board. - Conflict of Interest: Declare conflicts and abstain from related discussions or votes. - Financial Oversight: Ensure accurate accounts, annual reports, and compliance with financial regulations. ## **Members** - Membership: Open to individuals or organisations approved by the directors. Membership is non-transferable. - General Meetings: Members participate in decision-making through general meetings, including Annual General Meetings (AGMs). Special resolutions require a 75% majority. - Voting Rights: Each member has one vote, and organisations can nominate representatives. - Further Information Available in Aonach Mhacha’s Memorandum and Articles. 8 ## **Sealbhóirí Oifige/Office Bearers** - **An Cathaoirleach/Chairperson:** Micheál Ó Duibh - **An Rúnaí Comhlachta/Company Secretary:** Gearóid Mac Eoin - **Stiúrthóirí Eile/Other Directors** _**:**_ Réamonn Ó Ciaráin, Tomás Mac Gabhann, Ciarán Ó Maoláin, Ann Harte, Alan Brecknall. ## **Contact details for directors:** eolas@aonachmhach.com ## **Achoimre ar aon leasú ar Airteagail nó Rialachas na Cuideachta:** ## **Summary of Any Changes to the Articles or Governance of the Company:** Leasú ar bith ó bhí CCB 2023 ann. No changes since AGM 2023. ## **Eolas ar chruinnithe ginearálta a tionóladh, lena n-áirítear an Cruinniú Cinn Bliana (CCB).** **Cruinniú Cinn Bliana (CCB) – 15 Nollaig 2023:** Tionóladh an Cruinniú Cinn Bliana ar in Amharclann na nDaoine, Cultúrlann Aonach Mhacha. Chuir an Cathaoirleach, an Rúnaí, na hOifigigh Forbartha agus an tOifigeach Airgeadais a dtuarascálacha i láthair. Ina dtuarascálacha cuireadh béim ar phríomhéachtaí agus ar dhul chun cinn. Toghadh comhaltaí nua boird ag an chruinniú agus ceadaíodh rúin. ## **Information on general meetings held, including the Annual General Meeting (AGM).** ## **Annual General Meeting (AGM) – 15** **December 2023:** The Annual General Meeting took place at Amharclann na nDaoine, Cultúrlann Aonach Mhacha. The Chairperson, Secretary, Development Officers, and Financial Officer presented their reports, highlighting key achievements and progress. The meeting saw the election of new board members and the approval of resolutions. ## **Achoimre ar Chruinnithe Boird 2024** |**Gné**|**Sonraí**| |---|---| |**Líon na gCruinnithe**|Tionóladh sé chruinniú boird le linn 2024 ar na dátaí seo a leanas: • 8
Márta 2024 • 19 Aibreán 2024 • 24 Iúil 2024 • 18 Meán Fómhair 2024 •
28 Deireadh Fómhair 2024 • 10 Nollaig2024| |**Taifead Tinrimh**|Micheál Ó Duibh (MÓD): 6/6; Tomás Mac Gabhann (TMG): 3/6; Síle Nic
Giolla Dhomhnaigh mar Rúnaí Cuideachta (SNGD): 3/3; Alan Brecknell
(AB): 5/6; Anne Hart (AH): 4/6; Séamus Mac Eochaidh SMacE: 3/3;
Réamonn Ó Ciaráin replaced SMacE (RÓC): 2/3; Ciarán Ó Maoláin
(CÓM): 1/1; Gearóid Ó Machail mar Rúnaí Cuideachta (GÓM), 3/3;
Gearóid Mac Eoin mar Rúnaí Cuideachta(GME): 1/1.| |**Stiúrthóirí a d’éirigh as**
**an Bhord**|D'éirigh Colm Laighneach as mar gheall ar chúiseanna sláinte, d'éirigh
Síle Nic Giolla Dhomhnaigh as mar gheall ar chúraimí pearsanta, d'éirigh
Séamus Mac Eochaidh as margheall ar chúraimí oibre.| 9 **Rialachas agus Cuntasacht** : • Ceapadh Rúnaí Cuideachta i mí an Mhárta. • Rinneadh athbhreithniú rialta ar airgeadas de réir an dea-chleachtais. **Foireann agus Ceannaireacht** : • Aontaíodh próiseas earcaíocht do phost an Bhainisteora ionaid agus Forbartha i mí Dheireadh Fómhair. • Rinneadh plé ar phleanáil comharbais foirne i mí Aibreáin agus i mí Iúil. **Tionscnaimh Mhaoinithe** : • Pléadh an dul chun cinn ar an straitéis **Príomhphlé agus** mhaoinithe ceithre bhealach (brústocaireacht, iarratais ar dheontais, **Príomhghníomhaíochtaí** rannpháirtíocht ghnó, agus síntiúis). **Maoin agus Bonneagar** : • Tugadh uasdátú ar dheisiúcháin tógála agus ar aimsiú tionóntaí. • Ceadaíodh feabhsú slándála i mí Dheireadh Fómhair, lena n-áirítear nuashonrú ar na córais aláraim agus ar TCI. **Rannpháirtíocht leis an Phobal agus le hEintitis Sheachtracha** : • Comhoibriú le gnólachtaí áitiúla agus le heagraíochtaí cultúrtha agus Gaeilge. ## **Summary of 2024 Board Meetings** |**Aspect**|**Details**| |---|---| |**Number of**
**Meetings **|Six board meetings held on the following dates: • 8 March 2024 • 19 April 2024 • 24
July2024 • 18 September 2024 • 28 October 2024 • 10 December 2024| |**Attendance**
**Record**|Micheál Ó Duibh (MÓD): 6/6; Tomás Mac Gabhann (TMG): 3/6; Síle Nic Giolla
Dhomhnaigh as Company Secretary (SNGD): 3/3; Alan Brecknell (AB): 5/6; Anne Hart
(AH): 4/6; Séamus Mac Eochaidh SMacE: 3/3; Réamonn Ó Ciaráin replaced SMacE
(RÓC): 2/3; Ciarán Ó Maoláin (CÓM): 1/1; Gearóid Ó Machail as Company Secretary
(GÓM),3/3;Gearóid Mac Eoin as CompanySecretary (GME): 1/1.| |**Director**
**Changes**|Colm Laighneach resigned due to health reasons, Síle Nic Giolla Dhomhnaigh
resigned due to personal commitments, Séamus Mac Eochaidh resigned due to
work commitments.| |**Key**
**Discussions**
**and Actions**|**Governance and Accountability**: • Appointment of a Rúnaí Comhlachta in March. •
Financial reviews conducted in accordance with best practice.**Staffing and**
**Leadership**: • Recruitment process for a Centre and Development Manager agreed
in October. • Discussions on staff succession planning in April and July.**Funding**
**Initiatives**: • Progress on the four-way funding strategy (lobbying, grant
applications, business engagement, and subscriptions).**Property and Infrastructure**:
• Regular updates on building repairs and tenant replacements. • Security
enhancements approved in October, including updated alarm systems and CCTV.
**Community and External Engagement**: • Collaborations with local businesses and
cultural organisations.| 10 ## **3. PUNANN OIBRE AN BHAINISTEORA IONAID AGUS FORBARTHA/ THE CENTRE AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER’S PORTFOLIO** ## A Chairde, Tá mé buíoch as an deis seo léargas a thabhairt ar na gníomhaíochtaí agus ar an dul chun cinn atá ar siúl anseo in Aonach Mhacha ó thosaigh mé sa ról mar Bhainisteoir Ionaid agus Forbartha ar an 20ú Samhain 2024. I am grateful for this opportunity to provide an overview of our activities and developments here at Aonach Mhacha since I began my role as Bainisteoir Ionaid agus Forbartha on 20[th] November 2024. Cé gur tréimhse ghearr atá i gceist ó thosaigh mé sa ról, tá áthas orm fuinneamh agus spiorad pobail a fheiceáil in Aonach Mhacha. Bhí roinnt ócáidí tábhachtacha ar siúl i mí na Nollag, ina measc cuairt ó _Dhaidí na Nollag_ , _Lá Spraoi na Nollag_ , agus _Aonach Ceardaíochta_ a eagraíodh i gcomhar le Macha Arts Collective agus ealaíontóirí áitiúla eile. D'éirigh go geal leis na himeachtaí sin agus bhain idir pháistí agus thuismitheoirí sult astu. Is léir ó na himeachtaí sin gur dóigheanna iontacha iad leis an phobal a thabhairt le chéile. Tá go leor feidhmeanna a bhaineann le mo chuid oibre agus le hAonach Mhacha atá le foghlaim agam go fóill. Sin ráite, gabhaim orm féin Aonach Mhacha a fhorbairt agus tógáil a dhéanamh ar an obair iontach a rinneadh go dtí seo. Mar fhocal scoir, ba mhaith liom an deis seo a thapú chun mo bhuíochas ó chroí a ghabháil le Casey Mullan, le hEimear O'Hanlon agus leis an Bhord Stiúrtha araon, as a dtacaíocht agus as a dtreoir luachmhar agus mé ag socrú isteach sa ról seo. Tá mé dóchasach faoin todhchaí agus tiomanta d'fhís agus do mhisean Aonach Mhacha. In a short period since taking up my role, I have been delighted to witness the vibrancy and community spirit that define Aonach Mhacha. Several events have taken place in recent months, including a wonderful visit from _Daidí na Nollag_ , our _Lá Spraoi na Nollag_ Christmas celebration, and an exciting _Craft Fair_ in collaboration with Macha Arts Collective and local artists. These events have proven to be excellent ways of bringing the community together. While there are many aspects of the job and of Aonach Mhacha that I am still learning I am committed to developing my understanding of Aonach Mhacha’s objectives and continuing its growth. Finally, I want to take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks to Casey Mullan, Eimear O’Hanlon and the Board of Directors, for their invaluable support and guidance as I settle into this role. I am optimistic about the future and committed to Aonach Mhacha vision and mission. Mise, le meas, Gearóid Mac Eoin Bainisteoir Ionaid agus Forbartha Aonach Mhacha 11 4. **PUNANN OIBRE AN OIFIGIGH FORBARTHA GAEILGE/ THE IRISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT OFFICER’S PORTFOLIO** |**Réimse**|**Gníomhaíochtaí**| |---|---| |**Réimse 1: Seirbhísí**
**(Oideachas san**
**áireamh) don aos óg**
**agus d’aoisghrúpa eile**|| |**Deiseanna Foghlama**|**Ranganna Gaeilge**: 5 leibhéal (Bunrang, Feabhsaitheoirí, Meánrang
Íochtar/Uachtar, Ardrang) - 109 rannpháirtí sa Téarma Earraigh, 160 sa
Téarma Fómhair 2024; **Dioplóma Gaeilge** (10 i mBliain 1,15 i mBliain 2).| ||**Obair Óige**: Club Óige lán-Ghaeilge (Eanáir-Meitheamh, Meán Fómhair-
Nollaig);**Campa Mhacha**: 100 páiste (29 Iúil - 2 Lúnasa) le béim ar chultúr na
nGael,rince céilí,scéalta,agus ceardlanna ealaíne.| ||**Scoileanna Áitiúla**: Tacaíocht do dhaltaí Coláiste Phádraig lena scrúduithe
béil; Clár píolótach i Scoil Íosaef (ceardlann podchraoltóireachta); Tacaíocht
don rangGaeilge AF igColáiste Phádraig gach Déardaoin.| |**Réimse 2: An Earnáil**
**Ghnó**|| |**Comhpháirtíocht**|Obair le Caifé Mhacha, Q-Mharc Gnó le Gaeilge, agus eagraíochtaí áitiúla
chun tacaíochtaí agus grúpaí a fhorbairt (e.g., Teaghlaigh Mhacha). Páirt i Lá
Spraoi do theaghlaigh agusgnólachtaí le Gaeilge.| |**Deiseanna Fostaíochta**|Postanna páirtaimseartha do 6 mhúinteoir Gaeilge, 5 oibrí óige i gCampa
Mhacha, agus 3 don chlub óige. Tacaíocht le Fís an Phobail le haghaidh
meantóireachta.| |**Réimse 3: Na Meáin**
**Chumarsáide**|| |**Láithreacht Ar Líne**|Suíomh gréasáin nua, nuashonraithe go rialta; Gníomhaíocht sna meáin
shóisialta (Facebook: 3.7k leantóir, Instagram: 661, X: 686, LinkedIn: 78
leantóir);Ríomhphoist margaíochta faoi imeachtaí in Aonach Mhacha.| |**Réimse 4: Pleanáil**
**agus Forbairt**
**Fhisiceach**|| |**Spásanna Oifige**|Spás ar cíos do Gael Linn, Cleamairí Ard Mhacha, Ionad Pat Finucane, agus
Píobairí Ard Mhacha.| |**Imeachtaí**|**Spás comhdhála, amharclainne agus cruinnithe curtha ar fáil do**:| ||• Gael Linn agus scoileanna don chomórtas ‘Abair’| ||• An Fhéile AE Russell| ||• Seoladh an leabhar,‘Ceann Scríbe Baile Ghib’| ||• Léiriú ‘Masks, Myths & Magic’ (Cleamairí Ard Mhacha - NI Mental Health
Arts Festival)| ||• Taispeántas ealaíne le Dhara Vallely| ||• Women in Business NI| ||• Taispeántas Creggan Graveyard| ||• 7 Hills Blues Festival| ||• Fóram na nÓg| 12 ||• Imeacht faoi Phádaic Fiacc| |---|---| ||• Scoil Damhsa Lorraine Scallon| ||• Southern Trust| ||• CLG Ard Mhacha| ||• Ionad Pat Finucane (taispeántas faoi Bhuamáil Bhaile Átha Cliath agus
Mhuineacháin)| ||• Ceardlanna, ceolchoirmeacha agus seisiúin a reáchtáil Club Píobairí Ard
Mhacha, mar atá sonraithe thíos:
• Ceardlanna agus seisiúin uirlisí le linn Fhéile Píobaireachta William
Kennedy i mí na Samhna,
• 3 sheisiúin teaghlaigh lena n-áirítear ceann le páistí scoile ó Eilean
Sgitheanach a raibh Gàidhlig acu,
• A Christmas concert,
• 2 FonnFriday concerts by guest artists
• Events marking Lá na Cruite/Harp Day and International Uilleann
Piping Day.| ||• ALFI(ceolchoirm)| ||• ‘Ceiliúradh’(Mhacha)| ||• Seoladh Leabhair:_No Greater Love_ (Seamas Kearney)| ||• Macha Arts Collective| ||• INTO| ||• SSC Accounts| ||• Sure Start.| |**Réimse 5: Seirbhísí**
**Sóisialta agus**
**Caitheamh Aimsire**|| |**An Ghaeilge**|Ciorcal comhrá (‘Tae is Plé’, Aoine, 10 rannpháirtí); Club Leabhar i gCaifé
Mhacha(Céadaoin,5 rannpháirtí).| |**Cultúr**|Rince céilí dopháistí(20 rannpháirtí).| |**Réimse 6: Staid na**
**Gaeilge sa cheantar**|| |**Staid na Gaeilge**|Tionscadail chun úsáid na Gaeilge a chur chun cinn, lena n-áirítear
comhoibriú le Gael Linn (Tráth na gCeist), Celtic Junction (Ciorcal Comhrá
trasatlantach), agus léirithe Gaeilge/Béarla i gcomhar le eagraíochtaí
éagsúla.| |**Area**|**Activities**| |---|---| |**Area 1: Services**
**(Including Education)**
**for Young People and**
**Other Age Groups **|| 13 |**Providing Learning**
**Opportunities**|**Irish Language Classes**: Five levels offered (Beginner, Improvers, Lower
Intermediate, Upper Intermediate, Advanced). 109 participants (Spring
2024), 160 participants (Autumn 2024). Additional beginner class added
due to demand.**Diploma in Irish**: Year 1 (10 students), Year 2 (15
students).| |---|---| |**Youth Work**|**Youth Club**: Full Irish-language club provided January–June, September–
December for primary school children in Irish-medium education.**Campa**
**Mhacha**: Summer camp (July 29–August 2) for 100 children with cultural
activities such as céilí dancing, storytelling, and performances by Cleamairí
Ard Mhacha.| |**Local Schools**|Support for St. Patrick’s College GCSE oral exams; podcasting workshop at
St. Joseph’s School; practical support for Irish AS classes at St. Patrick’s
College(weeklysessions).| |**Area 2: The Business**
**Sector**|| |**Partnership**
**Development**|Collaborations with Caifé Mhacha, Q-Marc, Glór na nGael, SEACHT, and
Fóram na nÓg to promote youth work, family support (Teaghlaigh
Mhacha), and careers with Irish. Participated in Family Fun Day for Irish-
language families and businesses.| |**Employment and**
**Training**|Six part-time teaching positions, youth workers for the Youth Club (2-3)
and Campa Mhacha (5 workers, 4 teachers). Irish Development Officer and
Receptionist attended mentoringwith Fís an Phobail.| |**Area 3: The Media**|| |**Promoting Online**
**Presence**|**Website**: New, user-focused website launched in collaboration with Öin
Interactive. Regular updates on Aonach Mhacha events.**Social Media**:
Active on Facebook (3.7K followers), Instagram (661), X/Twitter (686),
LinkedIn(78 followers). Email campaigns sent to subscribers about events.| |**Area 4: Planning and**
**Physical Development**|| |**Creating a Gaelic Centre**|Office spaces rented to Gael Linn, Cleamairí Ard Mhacha, Pat Finucane
Centre,and Pipers Armagh.| |**Events**|Aonach Mhacha collaborated with Gael Linn during**Seachtain na Gaeilge**
to host a Quiz in the conference room for 20–30 students from St. Patrick’s
College,Armagh.| ||**Conference, theatre, and meeting spaces wereprovided for**:| ||• Gael Linn and schools for the ‘Abair’ competition| ||• The AE Russell Festival| ||• Book launch for_Ceann Scríbe Baile Ghib_| ||• Cleamairí Ard Mhacha’s performance_Masks, Myths & Magic_during the
NI Mental Health Arts Festival| ||• Artist Dara Vallely's exhibition| ||• Women in Business NI| ||• Creggan Graveyard Exhibition| ||• 7 Hills Blues Festival| ||• Fóram na nÓg| ||• Event for Pádaic Fiacc| 14 ||• Lorraine Scallon Dance School| |---|---| ||• Southern Trust| ||• CLG Ard Mhacha| ||• Pat Finucane Centre (exhibition on Dublin/Monaghan bombing)| ||• Workshops, concerts and sessions run by Armagh Pipers Club, as detailed
below:
• Instrument workshops and sessions during November's William
Kennedy Piping Festival,
• 3 family sessions including one with Gàidhlig-speaking
schoolchildren from Skye,
• A Christmas concert,
• 2 FonnFriday concerts by guest artists
• Events marking Lá na Cruite/Harp Day and International Uilleann
PipingDay.| ||• ALFI concert| ||• Macha Arts Collective| ||• INTO| ||• SSC Accounts| ||• Sure Start.| |**Area 5: Social Services**
**and Recreation**|| |**Community Space**|**Irish Language**: Conversation circle (‘Tae is Plé’, Fridays, 10 participants);
Book Club (Wednesdays, 5 participants).**Culture**: Dance classes on
Tuesdays for 20 children.| |**Area 6: State of the Irish**
**Language in the Area**|| |**Raising Status and**
**Usage**|Collaborations with Gael Linn for events like quizzes, Celtic Junction Arts
Centre for transatlantic conversation circles, and SEACHT/Siopa Mhacha
for merchandise. Hosted screenings in partnership with British Film
Institute, Armagh Theatre, and Wildcard Distribution. Supported Cleamairí
Ard Mhacha events.| 15 ## **Staitisticí/Statistics** Mise, le meas, ## Eimhear O’Hanlon An tOifigeach Forbartha Gaeilge Aonach Mhacha 16 ## 5. **Forbhreathnú Airgeadais/ Financial Overview** Tá cúrsaí airgeadais in Aonach Mhacha, a tháinig ó shruthanna maoinithe éagsúla, ag dul i bhfeabhas I measc na bpríomhnithe tá: - D'fhan ioncam cíosa seasmhach. - Bhí deontais ar nós Chiste na gCuntas Díomhaoin ó Fhoras na Gaeilge do phoist foirne tábhachtach mar fhoinsí maoinithe. - Chuir an t-ioncam a fuarthas as seomraí a chur ar cíos agus as ioncam eile lenár n- acmhainní. Mar sin féin, tá ann go fóill do na dúshláin a bhaineann leis an ardú ar chostais oibríochtúla, lena n-áirítear fearais agus pá foirne. Ag deireadh na bliana airgeadais bhí easnamh de £31,888.05 ann, a clúdaíodh ón chúlchiste, rud a léiríonn an gá atá le pleanáil chúramach airgeadais sa bhliain atá amach romhainn. I measc na n-iarrachtaí chun aghaidh a thabhairt ar cheist na hinbhuanaitheachta bhí: - Stocaireacht a dhéanamh ar mhéadú sa tacaíocht a fhaightear ó dheontais. - Tabhartais phríobháideacha agus deiseanna urraíochta a fhiosrú. - Athbhreithniú inmheánach ar úsáid spáis agus ar chomhaontuithe tionóntaí a chríochnú chun socruithe cothroma agus inbhuanaithe a chinntiú do na páirtithe leasmhara go léir. Tá súil againn go leanfaidh an Bord nua leis an obair thábhachtach sin. _(Tugtar miondealú níos cuimsithí ar chúrsaí airgeadais faoi Rannán 11 den tuarascáil seo.)_ Aonach Mhacha’s financial health has seen improvements through diverse funding streams. Key highlights include: - Rental income remained stable. - Grants such as the Dormant Accounts Fund and support from Foras na Gaeilge for staff positions have been pivotal in funding operations. - Room hire and generated income added an additional income to our resources. However, rising operational costs, including utilities and staff wages, remain challenges. The financial year ended with a deficit of £31,888.05, covered from reserves, reflecting the need for careful financial planning moving forward. Efforts to address sustainability included: - Lobbying for increased grant support. - Exploring private donations and sponsorship opportunities. - A review of space utilisation and tenant agreements, which is ongoing, aimed at establishing fair and sustainable arrangements for all stakeholders. It is anticipated that the new Board will build on this work. _(A more comprehensive breakdown on the financial health of Aonach is provided in Section 11 of this report.)_ 17 ## **6. GNÍOMHAÍOCHTAÍ AGUS GNÓTHACHTÁIL 2024/ ACTIVITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS 2024** ## **Forbhreathnú** Ó bunaíodh Aonach Mhacha i mí an Mhárta 2020, tá Aonach Mhacha ag gnóthú clú do féin mar mhol bríomhar don Ghaeilge agus don chultúr Gaelach i gCathair Ard Mhacha, a dhéanann freastal ar réigiún Lár Uladh agus ar limistéar na teorann. Cuireadh leis an chlú sin in 2024 i gcuid mhór oibre mar atá le sonrú thíos mar aon le héachtaí an ionaid le bliain anuas. ## **Príomhghníomhaíochtaí agus Príomhéachtaí 2024** **Cur Chun Cinn na Gaeilge:** Chuir Aonach Mhacha an Ghaeilge chun cinn go leanúnach trí chláir oideachais éagsúla: - **Ranganna Gaeilge:** Chuir an t-ionad cúig rang ag leibhéil éagsúla inniúlachta ar fáil (Bunleibhéal, Feabhsaitheoirí, Meánrang 1, Meánrang Uachtarach, agus Ardrang), a mheall 269 rannpháirtí san iomlán i dtéarmaí an Earraigh agus an Fhómhair. Bhí an t-éileamh chomh hard sin gur tugadh isteach rang breise do thosaitheoirí i bhFómhar na bliana 2024. - **Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge:** I gcomhpháirtíocht le hOllscoil Uladh, cuireadh Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge ar fáil, a rinne freastal ar mhic léinn ag leibhéal Bliain 1 agus Bliain 2 araon. Thug an clár struchtúrtha sin an deis d'fhoghlaimeoirí chun a gcumas teanga a shaibhriú. - **Tionscnaimh dírithe ar an óige:** - **Club Óige** : Club óige lán-Ghaeilge do pháistí gaelscoile a reáchtáladh ó Eanáir go Meitheamh agus ó Mheán Fómhair go Nollaig a d’fhóir do riachtanais teanga na bpáistí. - **Campa Mhacha:** Dhírigh an campa samhraidh, ar ar fhreastail 100 páiste, ar an chultúr Gaelach trí ghníomhaíochtaí ar nós damhsa céilí, scéalaíocht agus ceardlanna ealaíon, gníomhaíochtaí a threisigh féiniúlacht teanga i measc na glúine óige. - **Comhpháirtíocht le Scoileanna:** Chomhoibrigh an t-ionad le scoileanna áitiúla chun tacú le páistí a bhí ag dul de an scrúduithe cainte TGM, chun ceardlanna podchraolta a sheachadadh, agus chun cúnamh praiticiúil a chur ar fáil do ranganna Gaeilge ag Leibhéal AF. - **Ceardlanna Oideachais** : I mí an Mheithimh 2024, reáchtáladh ceardlann podchraolta i gcomhar le Naomh Seosamh, an Domhnach Mór agus Eoghan Mór Ó Néill mar ar fhoghlaim daltaí meánscoile scileanna i léiriú na meán digiteach. **Cláir agus Imeachtaí Cultúrtha** : D'eagraigh Aonach Mhacha réimse suntasach imeachtaí chun oidhreacht agus cultúr na nGael a cheiliúradh: - Taispeántas Phádraic Fiacc: I mí Lúnasa, rinne an t-ionad ceiliúradh ar shaothar cáiliúil an fhile le hócáid ina raibh scannáin, ceol agus filíocht ann. - Féile Ealaíon na Meabhairshláinte: Leag meascán de cheardlanna agus léirithe béim ar an áit a dtrasnaíonn cultúr agus folláine. - 7 Hills Blues Festival: Chuir an ócáid seo a raibh móréileamh uirthi le cáil Aonach Mhacha mar lárionad d'imeachtaí cultúrtha. 2 - Taispeántais: Chuaigh an t-ionad i gcomhpháirtíocht le hIonad Pat Finucane chun taispeántas a óstáil ar bhuamáil Bhaile Átha Cliath agus Mhuineacháin, taispeántas a chothú machnamh stairiúil agus idirphlé pobail. **Teagmháil leis an Phobal tríd na Meáin:** Chuir Aonach Mhacha leis an teagmháil a rinneadh leis an phobal trí ardáin dhigiteacha agus tionscnaimh straitéiseacha: - **Forbairt Láithreán Gréasáin:** Seoladh suíomh gréasáin nua atá dírithe ar an úsáideoir a thugann nuashonrú rialta ar imeachtaí agus ar ghníomhaíochtaí. - **Forbairt na Meán Sóisialta:** - Facebook: 3.7K leantóir - Instagram: 661 leantóir - X (Twitter roimhe seo): 686 leantóir - LinkedIn: 78 leantóir - **Feachtais Ríomhphoist:** Coinníodh síntiúsóirí ar an eolas faoi imeachtaí agus tionscnaimh atá le teacht. ## **Forbairt Saoráidí agus Tacaíocht do Thionóntaí** - **Caifé Mhacha:** Chuir an t-aistriú chuig bainistíocht nua an chaifé go mór leis an bheocht san ionad. Feidhmíonn an cáife mar spás fáilteach dátheangach don phobal. Chuir a athoscailt beocht ar ais ar urlár na talún agus mheall sé cuid mhór daoine isteach san ionad. - **Áiseanna Comhroinnte agus Stóráil:** Tugadh aghaidh ar riachtanais tionóntaí, réitíodh stóráil shlán agus feabhsaíodh áiseanna comhroinnte chun a chinntiú go mbeidh áiseanna inrochtana agus feidhmiúil ann do thionóntaí agus do chuairteoirí araon. **Comhpháirtíochtaí agus Comhoibriú** : Tá caidreamh maith láidir cothaithe ag Aonach Mhacha le heagraíochtaí áitiúla agus idirnáisiúnta: - **Portal Comhrá** : Tionscnaíodh tríd an tairseach malartú teanga agus cultúr idir Ard Mhacha agus Minnesota, cothaíodh nasc trasatlantach agus cuireadh an Ghaeilge chun cinn ar scála domhanda. - **Comhoibriú le Grúpaí:** De thoradh na comhpháirtíochta le Gael Linn, le Women in Business NI, le Cleamairí Ard Mhacha, Píobairí Ard Mhacha agus le grúpaí agus daoine eile cuireadh réimse leathan clár cultúrtha agus pobal-dhírithe ar fáil. **Aitheantas agus Gradaim** : Bronnadh Gradam Q-Mharc Gnó ar Aonach Mhacha, gradam a fuarthas de thoradh a fheabhas a d’éirigh leis an Ghaeilge a chomhtháthú ina múnla gnó agus ina chuid oibríochtaí. 3 Trí na cláir agus tionscnaimh éagsúla sin, tá ról lárnach ag Aonach Mhacha i gcónaí i gcur chun cinn na Gaeilge agus an chultúir ghaelaigh, i gcothú na rannpháirtíochta i measc an phobail, agus i mbunú na comhpháirtíochta chun an oidhreacht chultúrtha a shaibhriú. ## **Activities and Achievements in 2024** ## **Overview** Since its establishment in March 2020, Aonach Mhacha has grown into a vibrant hub for the Irish language and culture in Armagh City, serving the broader Mid-Ulster and border regions. The year 2024 marked significant milestones in advancing Irish language education, community development, and cultural enrichment. Below is a detailed account of the centre's activities and achievements over the past year. ## **Key Activities and Achievements in 2024** **Irish Language Promotion** : Aonach Mhacha has consistently promoted the Irish language through diverse educational programmes: - **Irish Language Classes** : The centre offered five classes of at various proficiency levels (Beginner, Improvers, Lower Intermediate, Upper Intermediate, and Advanced), attracting a total of 269 participants in Spring and Autumn terms. The demand was so high that an additional beginner class was introduced in Autumn 2024. - **Diploma in Irish Language** : In partnership with Ulster University, a Diploma in Irish Language was successfully delivered, catering to students at both Year 1 and Year 2 levels. This structured programme has provided vital opportunities for learners to deepen their linguistic proficiency. - **Youth-Focused Initiatives** : - **Youth Club** : A full Irish-language youth club for children in Irish-medium education operated from January to June and September to December, providing an engaging linguistic environment. - **Campa Mhacha** : The summer camp, attended by 100 children, focused on Gaelic culture through activities such as céilí dancing, storytelling, and arts workshops, reinforcing cultural identity among the younger generation. - **School Partnerships** : The centre collaborated with local schools to support GCSE oral exams, deliver podcasting workshops, and provide practical assistance for Irish AS-level classes. - **Educational Workshops** : In June 2024, a podcasting workshop was conducted in collaboration with St. Joseph’s, Donaghmore and Eoghan Mór Ó Néill, providing participants with skills in digital media production. **Cultural Programmes and Events** : Aonach Mhacha hosted an impressive range of events to celebrate Irish heritage and culture: 4 - **Pádraic Fiacc Exhibition** : In August, the centre celebrated the renowned poet’s work with an event featuring film, music, and poetry. - **Mental Health Arts Festival** : A combination of workshops and performances highlighted the intersection of culture and well-being. - **7 Hills Blues Festival** : This popular event further cemented Aonach Mhacha’s reputation as a centre for cultural activities. - **Collaborative Exhibitions** : The centre partnered with the Pat Finucane Centre to host a moving exhibition on the Dublin and Monaghan bombings, fostering historical reflection and community dialogue. **Media and Community Outreach** : Aonach Mhacha enhanced its outreach efforts through digital platforms and strategic initiatives: - **Website Development** : A new, user-focused website was launched, providing regular updates on events and activities. ## • **Social Media Growth** : - Facebook: 3.7K followers - Instagram: 661 followers - X (formerly Twitter): 686 followers - LinkedIn: 78 followers - **Email Campaigns** : Subscribers were kept informed about upcoming events and initiatives. ## **Facility Development and Tenant Support** - **Caifé Mhacha** : Transitioning to new management revitalised the café, which now serves as a welcoming bilingual space for the community. Its reopening has enhanced the ground floor’s vibrancy and positioned the café as a focal point for cultural exchange. - **Shared Amenities and Storage** : Tenant needs were addressed with secure storage solutions and improved shared amenities, ensuring that facilities are accessible and functional for both tenants and visitors. **Partnerships and Collaborations** : Aonach Mhacha has cultivated meaningful relationships with local and international organisations: - **Portal Comhrá** : This initiative established a cultural exchange between Armagh and Minnesota, fostering transatlantic connections and promoting the Irish language on a global scale. 5 - **Collaborations with Local Groups** : Partnerships with Gael Linn, Women in Business NI, Cleamairí Ard Mhacha, Armagh Piper Club and others supported a wide range of cultural and communityfocused programmes. **Recognitions and Awards** : Aonach Mhacha was honoured with the **Gradam Q-Mharc Gnó** , recognising its excellence in integrating the Irish language into its business model and operations. Through these diverse programmes and initiatives, Aonach Mhacha continues to play a pivotal role in promoting the Irish language and culture, fostering community involvement, and establishing significant partnerships to enrich cultural heritage. 6 **7. ÉIFEACHT AGUS FOR-ROCHTAIN/ IMPACT AND OUTREACH** **Sonraí Inchainníochtaithe maidir le Tinreamh agus Rannpháirtíocht:** Tá dul chun cinn nach beag déanta ag Aonach Mhacha, mar lárionad don Ghaeilge, ina mbíonn gníomhaíochtaí teanga, staire, cultúrtha agus tá sin le sonrú sa rannpháirtíocht ón phobal. Is bliain í 2024 a bhfuil sonrú le cur ann ó thaobh na rannpháirtíochta a bhí ann i gcláir agus imeachtaí éagsúla. I measc na bpríomhmhéadrachtaí tá: - **Ranganna Gaeilge** : D'fhreastail 269 rannpháirtí ar ranganna Gaeilge thar chúig leibhéal i dtéarmaí an Earraigh agus an Fhómhair. Mar gheall ar éileamh ard, tugadh isteach rang breise do thosaitheoirí i bhFómhar 2024. - **Cláir Óige** : D'éirigh go maith leis an chlub óige Gaeilge, club a mheall páistí gaelscoile chuige ó Eanáir go Meitheamh agus Meán Fómhair go Nollaig. Mheall Campa Mhacha, campa samhraidh a chuireann béim ar an chultúr Gaelach, 100 páiste a ghlac páirt in imeachtaí ar nós damhsa céilí, scéalaíocht agus ceardlanna ealaíon. 7 - **Cláir don Phobal** : D'fhreastail 10 rannpháirtí rialta ar an chiorcal comhrá seachtainiúla _Tae is Plé_ , a reáchtáiltear gach seachtain. Bhí cúigear i láthair go rialta ag an Chlub Leabhar a bhí ar siúl i gCaifé Mhacha. D’fhreastail 20 páiste ar ranganna damhsa céilí gach seachtain. 8 ## **Éifeacht ar an Phobal** **Rannpháirtíocht Chultúrtha** : Léiríodh in imeachtaí amhail an tionscnamh meabhairshláinte, féilte Ceilteacha, agus comhoibriú trasatlantach le Celtic Junction Arts Centre le linn Fhéile AE George Russell cumas Aonach Mhacha an pobal a thabhairt le chéile agus oidhreacht na nGael á ceiliúradh ag an am céanna. **Tacaíocht do Thionóntaí** : Threisigh athoscailt Chaifé Mhacha faoi bhainistíocht nua ról an t-ionad mar mhol pobail bríomhar. Cuireann an caifé seirbhísí ar fáil go dátheangach mar ar féidir leis an phobal bualadh le chéile ar bhealach cairdiúil. **Teagmháil Níos Leithne** : Mhéadaigh láithreacht na meán sóisialta go mór, le 3.7K leantóir ar Facebook agus fás leanúnach ag teacht ar an lucht féachana ar ardáin ar nós Instagram, LinkedIn, agus X (Twitter roimhe seo). Coinnítear an pobal ar an eolas faoi imeachtaí agus faoi ghníomhaíochtaí Aonach Mhacha ar na meáin shóisialta. ## **Imeachtaí agus Tionscnaimh Mhóra** **Mórimeachtaí** : D'eagraigh Aonach Mhacha os cionn 25 imeacht in 2024, ina measc siúd bhí: Léirithe agus ceardlanna le linn Fhéile Ealaíon Meabhairshláinte TÉ agus Féile 7 Hills Blues agus Taispeántas ar bhuamáil Bhaile Átha Cliath agus Mhuineacháin i gcomhar le hIonad Pat Finucane agus an iliomad imeachtaí agus ócáidí a reáchtáil Píobairí Ard Mhacha. **Comhoibriú** : Chuir comhpháirtíocht le heagraíochtaí ar nós Gael Linn, Cleamairí Ard Mhacha, agus Women in Business NI cláir chultúrtha éagsúla ar fáil, rud a chuaigh chun tairbhe don lucht féachana áitiúil agus idirnáisiúnta araon. **Úsáid Áiseanna** : Baineadh úsáid fhorleathan as na spásanna comhdhála agus amharclainne agus óstáladh imeachtaí ar nós seoltaí leabhar, taispeántais ealaíne, agus ceardlanna ceoil, imeachtaí a chur Aonach Mhacha chun tosaigh mar mhol teanga, cultúrtha agus oideachais. 9 Cuireann Aonach Mhacha béim ar an ról lárnach atá aige i gcothú na Gaeilge, na staire agus an chultúir ghaelaigh agus cuirtear deiseanna fiúntacha rannpháirtíochta ar fáil d’idir liath agus leanbh. Agus é i gceist ag Aonach Mhacha cur le líon na ndaoine a bhíonn rannpháirtíocht in imeachtaí Aonach Mhacha, léirítear sna treochtaí thuas go mbeireann buan bua. ## **Quantifiable Data on Attendance and Engagement** Aonach Mhacha continues to thrive as a hub for the Irish language, cultural activities, and community engagement, with 2024 being a standout year for participation across various programmes and events. Key metrics include: **Irish Language Classes** : A total of 269 participants attended Irish language classes across five levels in the Spring and Autumn terms. Due to high demand, an additional beginner class was introduced in Autumn 2024. 10 **Youth Programmes** : The Irish-language youth club ran successfully, engaging children in Irishmedium education from January to June and September to December. Campa Mhacha, a summer camp emphasising Gaelic culture, attracted 100 children who participated in activities such as céilí dancing, storytelling, and arts workshops. **Community Programmes** : Weekly conversation circles ("Tae is Plé") engaged 10 regular participants. A book club hosted in Caifé Mhacha had 5 regular attendees. Céilí dance classes for children had 20 participants every week. 11 ## **Community Impact** **Cultural Engagement** : Events such as the mental health initiative, Celtic festivals, and a transatlantic collaboration with the Celtic Junction Arts Centre during the AE George Russell Festival showcased Aonach Mhacha’s ability to unite the community while celebrating Irish heritage. **Tenant Support** : The reopening of Caifé Mhacha under new management has reinforced the centre’s role as a vibrant community hub, offering bilingual services and fostering greater community interaction. **Broad Reach** : Social media presence expanded significantly, with 3.7K followers on Facebook and a growing audience across platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter), keeping the wider community informed about Aonach Mhacha’s events and activities. ## **Highlighted Events and Initiatives** **Major Events** : Aonach Mhacha hosted over 25 key events in 2024, including: Performances and workshops during the NI Mental Health Arts Festival, The 7 Hills Blues Festival, A collaborative exhibition on the Dublin and Monaghan bombings with the Pat Finucane Centre and multiple events run by Armagh Pipers Club. **Collaborations** : Partnerships with organisations such as Gael Linn, Cleamairí Ard Mhacha, and Women in Business NI provided diverse cultural programming, benefitting both local and international audiences. **Facility Utilisation** : The conference and theatre spaces were extensively used, hosting events such as book launches, art exhibitions, and music workshops, further positioning Aonach Mhacha as a cultural and educational hub. Aonach Mhacha’s outreach and impact underscore its pivotal role in fostering the Irish language and culture, providing meaningful engagement opportunities for individuals of all ages, and strengthening the community fabric in Armagh. With plans for even greater participation in 2025, the centre is poised to continue this positive trajectory. 12 AONACH MHACHA 13 ## **8. SPRIOCANNA AGUS PLEANANNA STRAITÉISEACHA DON BHLIAIN AMACH ROMHAINN/ STRATEGIC GOALS AND PLANS FOR THE COMING YEAR** ## **Tairiscintí Gaeilge agus Cultúrtha a Leathnú** - Leanúint ar aghaidh ag cur ranganna Gaeilge ar fáil ag gach leibhéal agus cur le líon na bhfoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge. - Ceardlanna ar stair áitiúil, béaloideas agus traidisiúin na háite a sheoladh chun cur le cur amach an phobail orthu agus chun spéis s’acu iontu a neartú. - Comhpháirtíocht le scoileanna agus le hollscoileanna a fheabhsú chun feasacht agus úsáid na Gaeilge a chothú i measc an phobail agus na glúine óige go háirithe. ## **Inbhuanaitheacht Aonach Mhacha a Chinntiú** - Sruthanna ioncaim a éagsúlú trí dheontais, urraíocht, agus trí chur lenár gclár imeachtaí. - Athbhreithniú inmheánach ar úsáid spáis agus ar chomhaontuithe tionóntaí a chríochnú chun socruithe cothroma agus inbhuanaithe a chinntiú. ## **Caomhnú na hOidhreachta Áitiúla a Chur Chun Cinn** - Taispeántais, gníomhaíochtaí rannpháirtíochta poiblí, agus tionscnaimh chruthaitheacha eile a eagrú chun stair shaibhir chultúrtha Ard Mhacha a cheiliúradh agus a chaomhnú. ## **Rialachas agus Rannpháirtíocht Páirtithe Leasmhara a Fheabhsú** - Cleachtais rialachais a neartú agus ardleibhéal trédhearcachta a chinntiú in obair Aonach Mhacha. - Caidreamh níos láidre a chothú le príomhpháirtithe leasmhara chun tacú le misean Aonach Mhacha a bhaint amach. ## **Saoráidí Aonach Mhacha a Fheabhsú** - Aghaidh a thabhairt ar chothabháil saoráidí comhroinnte agus uasghrádú a dhéanamh ar áiseanna comhroinnte do thionóntaí agus do chuairteoirí. ## **Imeachtaí agus Tionscnaimh sa Bhliain Amach Romhainn** **Seachtain na Féile Pádraig/Seachtain na Gaeilge 2025** : Seachtain cheiliúrtha na Gaeilge agus an chultúir a eagrú. Réimse bríomhar imeachtaí a reáchtáil, lena n-áirítear ceardlanna, léirithe, agus gníomhaíochtaí cultúrtha a dhéanfaidh ceiliúradh ar an Ghaeilge agus ar chultúr na nGael. **Féile AE Russell** : Comhoibriú le comhpháirtithe áitiúla agus idirnáisiúnta chun imeachtaí cultúrtha a óstáil i mí Aibreáin 2025, a léireoidh oidhreacht Ard Mhacha agus a chuirfidh lena naisc chultúrtha. **Ceardlanna Cultúrtha** : Ceardlanna a chur ar fáil sa cheol traidisiúnta, sa drámaíocht, san fhilíocht agus sna hamharcealaíona chun léiriú cruthaitheach agus rannpháirtíocht sa phobal a spreagadh. 14 **Tionscnaimh Rannpháirtíochta don Aos Óg** : Clubanna agus campaí óige Gaeilge a leathnú chun an ghlúin óg a spreagadh chun teagmháil a dhéanamh lena bhféiniúlacht chultúrtha. **Comhpháirtíochtaí Idirnáisiúnta** : Tógáil a dhéanamh ar a fheabhas atá ag éirí le cur chun cinn na Gaeilge ar bhonn trasatlantach ar ardáin ar nós _Portal Comhrá_ chun nasc láidir a chothú agus oidhreacht chultúrtha Ard Mhacha a thaispeáint ar stáitse idirnáisiúnta. De thoradh na spriocanna straitéiseacha sin a shaothrú agus réimse leathan imeachtaí agus tionscnamh a óstáil, beidh sé mar aidhm ag Aonach Mhacha leanúint lena mhisean an Ghaeilge agus an cultúr Gaelach a chur chun cinn, forbairt pobail a chothú, agus feidhmiú mar lochrann oidhreachta i gcroílár Ard Mhacha. ## **Expanding Irish Language and Cultural Offerings** - Continue providing Irish language classes at all levels and increase the number of Irish language students who come to Aonach Mhacha. - Launch workshops on local history, folklore, and traditions to deepen community knowledge and engagement. - Enhance partnerships with schools and universities to foster greater awareness and usage of Irish among the public and the younger generation in particular. ## **Strengthening Financial Sustainability** - Diversify income streams through grants, sponsorships, and increasing our event programme. - Conduct internal reviews of space utilisation and tenant agreements to ensure fair and sustainable arrangements. ## **Promoting Local Heritage Preservation** - Organise exhibitions, public engagement activities, and other creative initiatives to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural history of Armagh. ## **Enhancing Governance and Stakeholder Engagement** - Strengthen governance practices and maintain high levels of transparency in the work of Aonach Mhacha. - Foster stronger relationships with key stakeholders to support Aonach Mhacha's mission. ## **Facility Improvements** - Address facility maintenance and upgrade shared amenities for tenants and visitors. 15 ## **Upcoming Events and Initiatives** **St. Patrick’s Day Week/Seachtain na Gaeilge 2025** : Organise a week of celebrations, culminating in large-scale community events to further establish Aonach Mhacha as a cornerstone of cultural celebration. Host a vibrant array of events, including workshops, performances, and cultural activities celebrating the Irish language and culture. **Féile AE Russell** : Collaborate with local and international partners to host cultural events in April 2025, showcasing Armagh’s heritage and enhancing its cultural connections. **Cultural Workshops** : Offer workshops in traditional music, drama, poetry, and visual arts to encourage creative expression and engagement within the community. **Youth Engagement Initiatives** : Expand Irish-language youth clubs and camps to encourage younger generations to connect with their cultural roots. **International Partnerships** : Build on the success of transatlantic collaborations like Portal Comhrá to strengthen global connections and showcase Armagh's cultural heritage on an international stage. By pursuing these strategic goals and hosting a diverse range of events and initiatives, Aonach Mhacha aims to continue its mission of promoting the Irish language and culture, fostering community development, and serving as a beacon of heritage in the heart of Armagh. 16 ## **9. COMHLÍONADH AGUS CUNTASACHT/ COMPLIANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY** Tá Aonach Mhacha tiomanta do na caighdeáin is airde comhlíonta agus cuntasachta a choinneáil agus do chinntiú go mbíonn an obair a dhéanann muid ag teacht leis na dualgais dhlíthiúla agus eiticiúla go léir. Leagann na bearta seo a leanas béim ar ár dtiomantas don trédhearcacht agus don dea-rialachas: **Comhlíonadh an Achta Carthanas (Tuaisceart Éireann) 2008:** Tá forálacha an Achta Carthanas (Tuaisceart Éireann) 2008 a gcomhlíonadh go hiomlán ag Aonach Mhacha. Áirítear leis sin, cloí le gach oibleagáid reachtúil, a chinntiú go bhfeidhmíonn an chuideachta de réir a chuspóirí carthanais, agus go gcomhlíonann sé ceanglais leas an phobail. **Trédhearcacht in Oibríochtaí agus Bainistíocht Airgeadais:** Glacann an Bord go dáiríre lena fhreagracht as dea-rialachas agus maoirseacht airgeadais. Tá Aonach Mhacha tiomanta d'oibríochtaí trédhearcacha agus cuntasacha a chinntiú. Tá meicníochtaí tuairiscithe soiléire agus inrochtana i bhfeidhm chun muinín a thabhairt do pháirtithe leasmhara maidir leis an dóigh a ndéanann an chuideachta a cuid acmhainní agus gníomhaíochtaí a bhainistiú. **Doiciméid Riachtanacha a chur isteach:** Mar chuid dár n-oibleagáidí comhlíonta, cinntítear go gcuirtear na doiciméid riachtanacha go léir faoi bhráid Choimisiún Carthanais Thuaisceart Éireann go tráthúil. Ina measc sin tá: 1. **Tuairisceán Bliantúil** : Scríofa chun forléargas cuimsitheach a thabhairt don Choimisiún ar ghníomhaíochtaí, ar rialachas agus ar stádas comhlíonta an charthanais. 2. **Ráiteas Cuntas** : Cuirtear mionthuarascáil airgeadais agus cuntasaíochta isteach gach bliain, rud a léiríonn ár dtiomantas do bhainistíocht agus do chuntasacht airgeadais. De thoradh na gceanglas sin a chomhlíonadh, treisíonn Aonach Mhacha a thoil muinín a chothú le páirtithe leasmhara, maoinitheoirí agus leis an phobal i gcoitinne. Leanfaidh an chuideachta ag tabhairt tús áite don dea-rialachas agus do chinntiú go mbeidh gach gníomhaíocht agus acmhainn airgeadais ag teacht lena mhisean chun forbairt na Gaeilge agus an chultúir a chur chun cinn. Aonach Mhacha is committed to upholding the highest standards of compliance and accountability, ensuring that our operations align with all legal and ethical obligations. The following measures underline our dedication to transparency and good governance: **Compliance with the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008:** Aonach Mhacha fully complies with the provisions of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008. This includes adherence to all statutory obligations, ensuring that the company operates in accordance with its charitable purposes, and fulfilling the requirements of public benefit. **Transparency in Operations and Financial Management:** The Board takes its responsibility for good governance and financial oversight seriously. Aonach Mhacha is committed to maintaining transparent and accountable operations. Clear and accessible reporting mechanisms are in place to provide stakeholders with confidence in how the organisation manages its resources and conducts its activities. 17 **Submission of Required Documentation:** As part of our compliance obligations, Aonach Mhacha ensures the timely submission of all necessary documents to the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland. These include: - **Annual Return** : Submitted to provide the Commission with a comprehensive overview of the charity's activities, governance, and compliance status. - **Statement of Accounts** : A detailed and independently reviewed financial report is submitted annually, demonstrating our commitment to sound financial management and accountability. By meeting these requirements, Aonach Mhacha reinforces its commitment to fostering trust with stakeholders, funders, and the wider community. The company will continue to prioritise good governance, ensuring that all activities and financial resources are aligned with its mission to promote and support Irish language and cultural development. 18 ## **10. ADMHÁLACHA / ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS** Gabhaimid buíochas ó chroí leo siúd ar fad a thug tacaíocht d'Aonach Mhacha i rith na bliana. Bhí bhur ndúthracht agus bhur gcuidiú an-luachmhar agus muid ag iarraidh ár misean a bhaint amach chun an Ghaeilge, an cultúr agus forbairt an phobail a chur chun cinn. **Deontóirí agus maoinitheoirí:** Tá muid fíorbhuíoch dár ndeontóirí agus dár maoinitheoirí, gan a dtacaíocht fhlaithiúil airgeadais rachadh sé crua orainn cláir ardchaighdeáin a chur ar fáil agus ár n- ionad iontach a chothabháil. Cinnteoidh bhur n-infheistíocht inár bhfís go leanfaidh Aonach Mhacha de bheith ag fás mar mhol barr feabhais teanga, cultúrtha agus oideachais. **Tionóntaí:** Cé gur focal iontach fuar é ‘tionónta’ is bhfad ó fhuar a bhíonn ár dtionóntaí nó is cairde maithe iad a théann as mbealach le cuidiú linn. Tá muid fíorbhuíoch díbh. **Oibrithe Deonacha:** Dár n-oibrithe deonacha dochreidte, tá bhur gcuid ama, fuinnimh agus díograise fíorluachmhar. Ó chuidiú a thabhairt le himeachtaí go tacú le hoibríochtaí ó lá go lá, tá lorg bhur ndúthrachta le feiceáil go soiléir san obair atá déanta againn. **Foireann:** Gabhann muid buíochas faoi leith le foireann dhíograiseach agus paiseanta s’againn. Is é bhur dtiomantas diongbháilte do sheirbhísí, imeachtaí agus tionscnaimh den scoth a chur ar fáil an fórsa is mó atá taobh thiar den dóigh a bhfuil ag éirí le hAonach Mhacha. Ba mhaith linn buíochas ar leith a ghabháil le hiarbhainisteoir Aonach Mhacha, Gearóid Ó Machail agus le Mary Prunty a rinne obair na gcapall agus iad ag obair le hAonach Mhacha thar na blianta. Tá pobal Aonach Mhacha fíorbhuíoch díbh. **Comhpháirtithe:** Tá an t-ádh linn a bheith ag obair i gcomhar le réimse leathan comhpháirtithe, lena n-áirítear eagraíochtaí áitiúla agus Gaeilge, scoileanna, ollscoileanna agus institiúidí cultúrtha. Chuir bhur gcomhoibriú agus bhur bhfís chomhroinnte go mór lenár gcuid oibre. **Baill an Phobail agus Páirtithe Leasmhara:** Ar deireadh, gabhann muid buíochas ó chroí leis an phobal agus leis na páirtithe leasmhara go léir a thacaigh linn. Spreagann bhur rannpháirtíocht muid chun leanúint lenár gcuid oibre. Le chéile, tá lárionad teanga agus cultúrtha níos láidre agus níos bríomhaire á thógáil againn, rud a chuideoidh lena chinntiú go n-éireoidh go geal leis an Ghaeilge agus go bhfágfar í in áit mhaith do na glúnta atá le teacht. Tá muid fíorbhuíoch díbh as bhur dtacaíocht. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported Aonach Mhacha throughout the year. Your dedication and contributions have been instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of promoting the Irish language, culture, and community development. **Donors and Funders:** We are deeply grateful to our donors and funders, whose generous financial support allows us to deliver high-quality programmes and maintain our vibrant centre. Your investment in our vision ensures that Aonach Mhacha continues to grow as a hub for cultural and educational excellence. 19 **Tenants:** The word ‘tenant’ is a very cold word and our tenants are far from being cold. They are friends of Aonach Mhacha who go out of their way to help us. We very appreciate this and wish to acknowledge this by thanking you. **Volunteers:** To our incredible volunteers, your time, energy, and enthusiasm have been invaluable. From assisting with events to supporting day-to-day operations, your dedication is deeply appreciated. **Staff:** We offer special thanks to our hardworking and passionate staff. Your unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding services, events, and initiatives is the driving force behind Aonach Mhacha’s success. We would like in particular to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Aonach Mhacha’s former manager Gearóid Ó Machail and of Mary Prunty who both contributed so much to Aonach Mhacha. Our community are very grateful for all you have done. **Partners:** We are fortunate to work alongside a diverse range of partners, including local and Irish language organisations, schools, universities, and cultural institutions. Your cooperation and shared vision have enriched our work. **Community Members and Stakeholders:** Finally, we express our deepest appreciation to the members of our community and all stakeholders who have supported us. Your involvement inspires us to continue our work. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant cultural centre and ensuring that the Irish language and heritage thrive for generations to come. Thank you for your unwavering support. 20 ## **11. TUARASCÁIL AIRGEADAIS AONACH MHACHA / AONACH MHACHA FINANCIAL REPORT** (Curtha le chéile ag/Supplied by Square Book Keeping) 21 AONACH MHACHA Notes on figures (See Key Observations) Rent Income I PFC, Rhymer5,Gael Linnl Event income includes admission fees for classes. Note that SFLG expenditure for April-may 2024 included in this report, grant paid retrospectively Jul 2024, £9929.52 Bank 31.05.24 17k Reserves 31.05.23 63k Reseryes 31.05.24 40k Reserves used to cover shortfall during the year Main Funders for 23.24 Foras Na Gaeilge Foras Na Gaeilge Foras Na Gaeilge EA I funded post part funded gaslelectric £15,750 per year Projerts Project irish Language Officer Funded to June 25 Campa Mhacha, 5eachan na gaeilge Youth Club University of Ulster-Future Screens National Lottery- Dormant accounts I funded post I funded post Funded to 30.06.25 Funded to 31.08.24 Rates covers tsvo years: Due to a delays in signing off of premises for building control. rates bill for 22.23 was delayed While there was an overspend income v expenditure, Reserves were used to cover the shortfall. 22 ## **PRÍOMHCHONCLÚIDÍ Ó THUARASCÁIL AIRGEADAIS AONACH MHACHA (2023-2024)[1]** I dTuarascáil Airgeadais Aonach Mhacha tugtar miondealú a chlúdaíonn an tréimhse 01.06.2023 go 31.05.2024 ar ioncam, costais dhíreacha, forchostais agus foinsí cistithe. Seo thíos na príomhchonclúidí: ## **1. Forbhreathnú ar Fheidhmíocht Airgeadais** - **Ioncam Iomlán:** £208,451.36 - **Costais Dhíreacha Iomlána:** £33,297.25 - **Barrachas Comhlán:** £175,154.11 - **Forchostais iomlána:** £207,042.16 - **Easnamh Glan:** £31,888.05 Bhí Aonach Mhacha ag feidhmiú ar easnamh don bhliain airgeadais, le heasnamh £31,888.05 idir ioncam agus caiteachas. Mar sin féin, baineadh úsáid as cúlchistí chun an t-easnamh seo a chlúdach. ## **2. Miondealú Ioncaim** - **Ioncam Deontais:** £145,440.05 (Príomhfhoinse ioncaim) - **Ioncam Cíosa:** £21,600.00 - **Seomraí ar Cíos:** £14,334.70 - **Ioncam ó Imeachtaí:** £27,076.61 (Táillí iontrála ranga san áireamh) **B'ionann an cistiú deontais agus an chuid is mó (69.8%) den ioncam iomlán, rud a tharraingíonn aird ar spleáchas Aonach Mhacha ar fhoinsí cistithe seachtracha.** ## **3. Costais Mhóra** **Costais Dhíreacha (£33,297.25)** - **Táillí Ealaíontóirí/Taibheoirí:** £9,157.00 - **Táillí Éascaitheora:** £10,335.00 - **Costais Lónadóireachta:** £8,262.52 - **Ionad ar Cíos** : £3,899.38 - **Bus ar Cíos:** £600.00 **Tugann an caiteachas mór ar éascaitheoirí agus ar thaibheoirí le fios go ndírítear go láidir ar imeachtaí cultúrtha agus oideachais.** ## **Forchostais (£207,042.16)** 1 Scríofa ag an Dr. Micheál Ó Duibh, Cathaoirleach Aonach Mhacha. 23 - **Costais Foirne:** £99,732.93 (An costas is mó, beagnach 50% de na forchostais iomlána) - **Margaíocht:** £24,583.25 - **Gás agus Leictreach:** £17,549.55 (cistithe go páirteach ag Foras na Gaeilge) - **Cíos agus Rátaí:** £12,454.54 - **Costais a Bhaineann le Glantachán:** £13,602.40 - **Táillí Dlí agus Gairmiúla:** £6,566.29 - **Deisiú agus Athnuachan:** £6,451.80 - **Árachas:** £4,949.59 **Pá foirne, margaíocht, agus costais fóntais na trí fhorchostais is mó.** ## **4. Cúlchistí agus Cobhsaíocht Airgeadais** - **Iarmhéid bainc ar an 31.05.2024:** £17,000 - **Cúlchiste ag tús na bliana (31.05.2023):** £63,000 - **Cúlchiste ag deireadh na bliana (31.05.2024):** £40,000 **Baineadh úsáid as £23,000 den chúlchiste i rith na bliana chun easnaimh oibriúcháin a chlúdach. Tá cúlchiste ag Aonach Mhacha (£40k) go fóill, ach d'fhéadfadh easnaimh leanúnacha an ciste sin a ídiú tuilleadh.** ## **5. Cistiú agus Príomhthacadóirí** - **Príomh-mhaoinitheoirí do 2023-2024:** - **Foras na Gaeilge:** Post amháin cistithe (Oifigeach Gaeilge) agus gás/leictreach cistithe go páirteach (£15,750 sa bhliain) go dtí Meitheamh 2025. - **Ollscoil Uladh - Future Screens:** Post cistithe amháin (cistiú faighte go dtí Meitheamh 2025). - **An Crannchur Náisiúnta - Cuntais Dhíomhaoine:** Post cistithe amháin (cistiú faighte go dtí Lúnasa 2024). - **Club Óige Tionscadal EA:** Cistiú breise tionscadail. - **Tionscadail Fhoras na Gaeilge:** Tionscnaimh chistithe ar nós Campa Mhacha agus Seachtain na Gaeilge. **Leathnaítear gealltanais chistiúcháin go dtí 2025 i gcás roinnt post agus costas oibriúcháin, rud a chuireann méid áirithe slándála airgeadais ar fáil.** **Tá Foras na Gaeilge fós ina mhaoinitheoir tábhachtach a thacaíonn le costais foirne agus oibriúcháin araon.** 24 ## **6. Coigeartú mór ar airgeadas** - **Íocaíochtaí Rátaí Moillithe:** Mar gheall ar mhoill ar shíniú an áitribh le haghaidh rialú tógála, cuireadh bille rátaí 2022-2023 ar athló agus cuireadh san áireamh é i gcúrsaí airgeadais na bliana seo. - **Eisiúint Uainiú Deontais SFLG:** Cuireadh caiteachas d'Aibreán-Bealtaine 2024 san áireamh sa tuarascáil seo, ach ní gheofar an íocaíocht deontais (£9,929.52) ach amháin i mí Iúil 2024. **D'fhéadfadh gurb í an neamhréir shealadach sin in ioncam vs caiteachas a chur le heasnamh tuairiscithe na bliana.** ## **AMACH ANSEO** ## **1. Inbhuanaitheacht Airgeadais agus Úsáid an Chúlchiste** - Clúdaíodh an t-easnamh £31,888.05 le cúlchiste rud a laghdaigh an leibhéal cúltaca ó £63,000 go £40,000. - Má tharlaíonn ró-éileamh den chineál céanna sna blianta amach romhainn, d'fhéadfaí an cúlchiste ídiú a thuilleadh, rud a ardaíonn buarthaí inbhuanaitheacht. ## **2. Spleáchas Trom ar Ioncam Deontais** - Tháinig os cionn 69% den ioncam iomlán ó dheontais. - D'fhéadfadh éagsúlú sruthanna ioncaim cobhsaíocht airgeadais a fheabhsú. ## **3. Costais Oibriúcháin** - Tá costais foirne (£99,732.93) ar an chostas is mó go fóill, rud a thógann beagnach 48% de na forchostais. - Tá gás agus leictreachas (£17,549.55) ard go fóill, cé go bhfuil sé páirtchistithe ag Foras na Gaeilge. - Tá caiteachas margaíochta (£24,583.25) ard, rud a thugann le fios go bhfuil iarrachtaí ar bun feasacht agus rannpháirtíocht a leathnú. ## **4. Slándáil Mhaoinithe** - Tá roinnt gealltanas cistithe a bheidh beo go dtí 2025, ach tháinig deireadh le deontais áirithe (e.g., cistiú ón Chrannchur Náisiúnta) i mí Lúnasa 2024, rud a chuireann ar Aonach Mhacha foinsí eile cistithe a aimsiú. ## **5. Pleanáil Straitéiseach do Rialú Costas** - Ba cheart iarrachtaí a dhéanamh spleáchas ar an chúlchiste a laghdú trí cheann díobh seo a leanas: - Ioncam a mhéadú - Costais neamhriachtanacha a laghdú 25 **Conclúid Deiridh:** Bhí easnamh £31,888.05 ag Aonach Mhacha in 2023-24, clúdaithe ag an cúlchiste. Cé go bhfuil bunmhaoiniú Fhoras na Gaeilge agus foinsí eile seasmhach i gcónaí, beidh inbhuanaitheacht airgeadais amach anseo ag brath ar shruthanna ioncaim a éagsúlú agus costais a rialú. Beidh gá le pleanáil chúramach airgeadais chun ídiú breise ar an chúlchiste a chosc agus chun inmharthanacht fhadtéarmach a chinntiú. 26 ## **KEY OBSERVATIONS FROM THE AONACH MHACHA FINANCIAL REPORT (2023-2024)[2]** The financial report for Aonach Mhacha covering the period 01.06.2023 to 31.05.2024 provides a detailed breakdown of income, direct expenses, overheads, and funding sources. Below are the main observations: ## **1. Financial Performance Overview** - **Total Income:** £208,451.36 - **Total Direct Expenses:** £33,297.25 - **Gross Surplus:** £175,154.11 - **Total Overheads:** £207,042.16 - **Net Deficit:** £31,888.05 Aonach Mhacha operated at a deficit for the financial year, with a shortfall of £31,888.05 between income and expenditure. However, reserves were used to cover this deficit. ## **2. Income Breakdown** - **Grant Income:** £145,440.05 (Primary source of income) - **Rent Income:** £21,600.00 (From tenants such as PFC, Rhymers, and Gael Linn) - **Room Hire:** £14,334.70 - **Event Income:** £27,076.61 (Includes class admission fees) **Grant funding made up the majority (69.8%) of total income, highlighting the organisation's reliance on external funding sources.** ## **3. Major Expenses** ## **Direct Expenses (£33,297.25)** - **Artists/Performers Fees:** £9,157.00 - **Facilitator Fees:** £10,335.00 - **Catering Costs:** £8,262.52 - **Venue Hire:** £3,899.38 - **Bus Hire:** £600.00 **Significant spending on facilitators and performers suggests a strong focus on cultural and educational events.** 2 Author: Dr. Micheál Ó Duibh, Chairperson of Aonach Mhacha. 27 ## **Overheads (£207,042.16)** - **Staff Costs:** £99,732.93 (Largest single expense, nearly 50% of total overheads) - **Marketing:** £24,583.25 - **Gas & Electric:** £17,549.55 (Part-funded by Foras na Gaeilge) - **Rent & Rates:** £12,454.54 - **Cleaning Costs:** £13,602.40 - **Legal & Professional Fees:** £6,566.29 - **Repairs & Renewals:** £6,451.80 - **Insurance:** £4,949.59 **Staff wages, marketing, and utility costs represent the three largest overheads.** ## **4. Reserves and Financial Stability** - Bank balance as of 31.05.2024: £17,000 - Reserves at the start of the year (31.05.2023): £63,000 - Reserves at the end of the year (31.05.2024): £40,000 ## **£23,000 of reserves were used during the year to cover operational shortfalls.** **The organisation still holds reserves (£40k), but continued deficits could further deplete these funds.** ## **5. Funding and Key Supporters** - **Main Funders for 2023-2024:** - **Foras na Gaeilge:** Funded one post (Irish Language Officer) and partially funded gas/electric (£15,750 per year) until June 2025. - **University of Ulster - Future Screens:** Funded one post (funding secured until June 2025). - **National Lottery - Dormant Accounts:** Funded one post (funding secured until August 2024). - **EA Project Youth Club:** Additional project funding. - **Foras na Gaeilge Projects:** Funded initiatives such as Campa Mhacha and Seachtain na Gaeilge. 28 **Funding commitments extend into 2025 for some posts and operational expenses, providing a degree of financial security.** **Foras na Gaeilge remains a critical funder, supporting both staffing and operational costs.** ## **6. Notable Financial Adjustments** - **Delayed Rates Payments:** Due to a delay in signing off the premises for building control, the 2022-2023 rates bill was postponed and included in this year’s financials. - **SFLG Grant Timing Issue:** Expenditure for April-May 2024 was included in this report, but the grant payment (£9,929.52) was only received in July 2024. **This temporary mismatch in income vs. expenditure may have contributed to the year’s reported deficit.** ## **KEY TAKEAWAYS AND FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS** ## **1. Financial Sustainability and Reserve Usage** - The deficit of £31,888.05 was covered using reserves, reducing reserve levels from £63,000 to £40,000. - If similar overspending occurs in future years, reserves could be further depleted, raising sustainability concerns. ## **2. Heavy Reliance on Grant Income** - Over 69% of total income comes from grants. - Diversifying revenue streams (e.g., increasing event and room hire income) could enhance financial stability. ## **3. Operational Costs** - Staff costs (£99,732.93) remain the largest expense, consuming almost 48% of overheads. - Gas & electricity (£17,549.55) remain high, though partially funded by Foras na Gaeilge. - Marketing spend (£24,583.25) is significant, suggesting efforts to expand awareness and participation. ## **4. Funding Security** - Some funding commitments extend to 2025, but certain grants (e.g., National Lottery funding) expired in August 2024, requiring Aonach Mhacha to seek alternative sources of funding. ## **5. Strategic Planning for Cost Control** - Efforts should be made to reduce reliance on reserves by either: 29 `o` Increasing income `o` Reducing non-essential expenses **Final Conclusion:** Aonach Mhacha faced a £31,888.05 deficit in 2023-24, covered by reserves. While core funding from Foras na Gaeilge and other sources remains stable, future financial sustainability will depend on diversifying revenue streams and controlling costs. Careful financial planning will be necessary to prevent further depletion of reserves and ensure long-term viability. ## **CRÍOCH/END** 30