Philomena & Andrew Byrne
Interviewed by Kelsey Byrne Fitzsimons / photos by Sharon Smith
Kelsey: How long have you lived in the area?
Philomena & Andrew: 44 years.
Kelsey: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Philomena & Andrew: Bringing up our family and raising all 4 children. Going on family outings.
Kelsey: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Philomena & Andrew: Yes we have, and we would always be there for eachother if needed.
Kelsey: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Philomena & Andrew: What helped us get through the lockdown were our phone calls with our grandchildren every night. Our grandkids bring us joy; getting to see them and watch them come into the world and always being there for them and helping look after them.
Kelsey: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Philomena & Andrew: Community means everything to us. It’s a great area to live in. We meet friends for coffee and call in to make sure they’re ok. And we go to the parish hall after church for catch ups.
Kelsey: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Philomena & Andrew: That it will always be a good and welcoming community that is welcoming new members all the time.
Pictured below are images from Philomena & Andrew Byrne‘s shoot with photographer Sharon Smith.