Acclaimed Offaly professional photographer to speak at meeting in Tullamore

TULLAMORE based professional photographer, Paul Moore, will be the guest speaker at the inaugural meeting of Offaly University of the Third Age (U3A) on Wednesday June 25, in the Bridge House, at 8.00pm.

Award winning professional photographer, Paul specialises in Architectural commercial and event photography – creating visual content to tell your story.

Ms Geraldine O’Neill, chairperson Offaly U3A explained that U3A is a network of learning groups aimed at encouraging older people to share their knowledge skills and interests in a friendly environment.

“Following our inaugural meeting, the committee will be continuing to develop our curriculum further over the coming months with input from interested parties.

“There are no exams, no academic stress, but there is positive and lasting benefit to the physical and mental health of all involved and, because of the emphasis on social well-being there are fine friendships to be made on the journey, added Geraldine.

From its origins in France in the 1970s, The University of the Third Age has spread rapidly across the world with 30 branches affiliated in Ireland to date.

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In Ireland U3A branches are affiliated to Age Action but each is autonomous and administered by volunteers within its own branch.

The U3A movement is non-religious, non-political and has three main principles:

Membership of a U3A is open to all in their third age, which is defined not by a particular age but by a period in life in which full time employment has ceased.

Members promote the values of lifelong learning and the positive attributes of belonging to a U3A.

Members form interest groups covering as wide a range of topics and activities as they desire - by the members, for the members.

No qualifications are sought or offered. Learning is for its own sake, with enjoyment being the prime motive, not qualifications or awards.

Knowledge is shared in an atmosphere of friendly encouragement and experience shows that confidence grows rapidly as people relax into new friendships and minds are opened- up to new interests.

All are welcome to attend.

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