Media Moves Conference
8 June 2007, Menlo Park Hotel, Galway
Feedback by Tanya O Sullivan
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The day was particularly warm and bright, it was obvious from the
start that a wide range of people would be gathering for the
conference. Lillia Doolin chaired the day, her dynamic and challenging
approach created an energy in the room that for me meant inspiration
and encouragement without a hint of complacency. The take off was
directed by Rose Tuelo Brock, a feminist anarchist and a founding
member of the One World Centre. The courage of her reference to her
own family, her own social reality, and her own transformative reality
gave great strength to me to consider issues around media on a deeper
level.
A balance was created by the broad scope of the other speakers.
Michael McCaughlan reminded us of the challenges and triumphs that
people are facing globally. Patrick Nevin described the dynamic of the
Irish media with our only indigenous ethnic minority, Travellers. Mark
Garavan described the challenge for a spokesperson as a translator from
one culture, local community in Rossport, to the other that exists in
the main stream media. Thomás O'Siocháin was the voice of compromise,
he explained how balancing ratings with good quality programmes is a
challenge every day for broadcasters. Clare Hambert spoke about voice
and giving voice to the voiceless in todays climate where young people
are blamed but not listened to, and how participation can be
encouraged.
Finally the afternoon workshops gave us a more applied focus. I
attended the Indymedia session. This was very helpful technology wise,
the discussions after the workshops were very enjoyable, as the day was
reflected upon and the spirals of ideas gelled together very well.
Lillia's incisive input and the strength of her considerate facilitation gave power to the
message: MEDIA MOVES THE MEANING
Thanks for a great day
Tanya O'Sullivan