Athlone Railway Bridge goes blue for Irish Sign Language Awareness Week

This week is the International Week of Deaf People and Irish Sign Language Awareness Week, with blue lighting being used on the town's railway bridge to mark the occasion.

Athlone's deaf community gathered for the turning on of the bridge lights on Wednesday of this week. The lights are displaying a beautiful vibrant blue colour which symbolises the deaf communities in Ireland and internationally.

Sign Language is a crucial part of a deaf person's life. It is their first language and it's how they communicate on a daily basis in society, so it's fitting and appropriate that the importance of Sign Language is recognised.

Local councillor Aengus O'Rourke, who helped organise the event said, "I was delighted to be involved and, while changing the the colours of the bridge might seem like a small matter to some people, I know just how much it means to the deaf community in Athlone to have their community acknowledged and recognised in the town where they live, work and socialise.

"I really enjoyed spending time with the group involved, many of whom I would consider friends of mine, and so I wish them well for the future."

Frances Jordan, organiser of the event, said, "the deaf community in Athlone and the Midlands would like to thank Cllr Aengus O'Rourke and Iarnród Eireann for helping to make this wonderful occasion happen.

"We would also like to thank Ashleigh-Rose Coyle for interpreting during the 'switching on' event to the deaf community present. The lights will stay blue until this Sunday night, November 26.

"Please tell your friends and family when you are passing the bridge in the evening that the blue light signifies the deaf community in Athlone, Ireland, and internationally."

More information is available on the website of the Irish Deaf Society here.