Within the old city walls a project is underway that draws on history to bring life back to Derry.
The project 'If Stones Could Speak' plans to restore the city of Derry, provide employment and unite its people. Derry is one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe and the plan is to bring a renewed energy to the place and its people.
'If Stones Could Speak' will provide a history of the city through the centuries by mapping the buildings behind the old walls. This will require reconstruction of some of the buildings that no longer remain.
The project was inspired by a similar project in Williamsborough in the United States. Many of the buildings in Derry, which were previously facing demolition, will now be saved by the project.
'If Stones Could Speak' hopes to get young people interested in the history of Derry and give them an opportunity to rebuild the old city while at the same time learning new skills and crafts. The scheme has received great support from both Protestant and Catholic communities, who will share in the rebuilding of the city.
Over a hundred young people are currently being trained in skills needed to work on the buildings at the North West Centre for Learning and Development.
These young people, by taking part in the running of their own workshops, are becoming aware of their own potential.
Tutor Catherine Lafferty is hopeful that she can help the young people of Derry create their own employment and set up their own business. The plan is that the young people trained at the North West Centre would become involved in the 'If Stones Could Speak' project. A trainee at the North West Centre, Martin, has learnt many skills since he began his training 18 months ago and is now setting up a shirt factory. He sees great potential in the 'If Stones Could Speak' project, creating employment for young people.
The restoration of the inner city is a symbol of the community's restoration of hope in itself.
The scheme is being funded by local donations a huge calendar in the main square in Derry highlights the contributions made. Every x marked on the calendar indicates a donation of £250 from a community or business interest. Derry City Council is also backing the scheme and plans to provide additional financial support through the promotion of tourism.
This episode of 'Summerhouse' was broadcast on 5 August 1980. The reporter is Áine O'Connor.
The accompanying music is 'State of Emergency' by Belfast band Stiff Little Fingers.
'Summerhouse' was a summer magazine series on RTÉ Television. First broadcast in the summer evening time slot on RTÉ 2 on 13 June 1979, it ran until to 1981. Other presenters and reporters were Liam Nolan, Áine O'Connor and Vincent Hanly.
