Interviewed by Siobhan Murphy

Siobhan: How long have you lived in the area?
Bernie: 20 years.

Siobhan: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Bernie: I moved from Essex to Legga in 2002, and I was very pleased with the welcome and the friendly neighbours. Coming from a background of playing soccer and coaching back in Essex for the Avery Football Club, I was asked to get involved in the local Ladies’ Gaelic Football Club here in Dromand. I ended up Club Chairman, and I’ve been involved in the club since then.

Siobhan: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Bernie: When I moved over to Ireland and Legga, the Celtic Tiger was in full swing so I didn’t live through hard times here.

Siobhan: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Bernie: I suppose the Skype sessions with my family in England helped through lockdown. What brings me joy is winning and participating in the LGFC from the under 10s to seniors.

Siobhan: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Bernie: Community means everything- a helping hand when you need it. Community spirit is very good where I live and neighbours come in to help when needed.

Siobhan: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Bernie: I wouldn’t want to see too much change or to lose our community spirit. Further development in the GAA club and community would be great between now and 10 years. More population coming into our rural area would be great.

Pictured below is Siobhan’s creative response to her interview with Bernie- a drawing depicting the community spirit that comes from being involved in the local football club.