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FEATURE | NIID

(Photo captioned: Linda Dunphy, Dr Patricia O’Brien, NIID Director, and Denis O’Brien.)

(Three paintings: ‘Self Portrait’ by Michael Lambert, ‘Sunburst’ by Elaine Gallivan, ‘Sunset on the Hills’ by Aine Lawlor.)

POEM BY HELEN DONNELLY NIID GRADUATE
As one door closes after me
I open a door to the future
Full of challenges and experiences
Bravery, determination

The next door I open
Is a bumpy road ahead
And it becomes steeper
And harder to walk

Until I reach the top
Then I come down followed
By a smooth path along the way.


“I liked doing art because it taught me about the feelings that are inside me every day. I was allowed to express these feelings while I drew or painted.” Aine Lawlor CCL (2008 )

Speaking at the opening of the exhibition Denis O’ Brien said, “This exhibition and the wonderful talent on display will change perceptions about the skills and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities and open up exciting possibilities for new directions in their lives.”

WORK-LIFE PROGRAMME

A core focus of the Certificate, especially through its Work-Life Programme, is to ensure that third level education for people with intellectual disabilities leads to suitable job opportunities. Most of the students have been successful in securing jobs after graduation, while others have gone on to further education. The jobs are in a variety of areas including catering, retail, office and hotel work. The network of employers engaging with the Institute to provide work experience and job opportunities is expanding.

“People where I worked were very friendly and made me feel like one of the gang.” Jan Mahon CCL (2008 )

A key aim of the NIID Certificate, especially through its Work- Life Programme is to ensure that education at third level for people with intellectual disabilities leads to appropriate employment opportunities. The newly launched Alumni Society will provide graduates with a network and follow-on support after college. It will also promote the continuing development of their skills and potential as part of the Trinity Alumni.

"Graduating from Trinity was really cool because it shows other people I’m smart." BRIAN BYRNE CCL (2008)


NIID SUPPORTERS

The NIID’s development has been make possible through the support and funding of many private individuals, philanthropic organisations and Government agencies. In particular, we acknowledge and thank: Atlantic Philanthropies, Iris O’Brien Foundation, Joe Corcoran, The Kathleen Rooney Miller Fund, Thomas Crosbie Holdings, The Ireland Funds, Special Olympics Ireland, Department of Education and Science, Higher Education Authority, EU Marie Curie Fellowships, National Disability Authority, National Council for Special Education The Fulbright Commission

For more information please contact:

Dr Patricia O’Brien, Director of NIID
e. obrienp3@tcd.ie