Positive public relations 'vital' says T J Maher

What do an agricultural consultant, politician, teacher, bank official, photographer and a garda have in common? They are all currently studying for a Diploma in Public Relations with the Irish Academy of Public Relations in UCD (Dublin), UCC (Cork) or GMIT (Galway).

One man who really knows the value of good public relations is TJ Maher, Chairman of Agri Aware."At a time when the numbers working directly in agriculture are declining, the importance of getting the positive media message across cannot be underestimated.

"As people become more removed from their agricultural backgrounds, their first hand knowledge of farming diminishes and the media may become their only source of agricultural information.

It is vital, therefore, that we continue to improve the image and understanding of our industry through positive media contact and public relations,'' he said.

The Irish Academy of Public Relations is the largest private provider of public relations education in the country. Founded in 1992, the Academy specialises in courses in PR and Journalism at Certificate and Diploma level. Courses are taught at UCD (Dublin), UCC (Cork), GMIT (Galway) and IT, Letterkenny.

Last year, the Academy introduced their TAP Awards (Theory and Practice) for PR students. The TAP Awards are valued at €40,000 to the winning charity, and €8,000 to the winning student.

The winning student, Angela Carty McCormack from Athlone, studied with the Academy in Galway. She designed the award-winning concept of a Hero Day for the Alzheimer Society, which will be introduced nationwide in October of this year. The charity hope to raise in excess of €250,000 annually from Angela's concept.

The Academy currently teaches part-time (12-week) Certificate courses in public relations, journalism, TV & video production and legal skills for journalists.

It also teaches a one-year, part-time Diploma in Journalism, and a one or two year, part-time Diploma in Public Relations. Courses are also taught by distance learning.

For more information on the courses available ring (01) 2780802 or visit www.irishacademy.com

UL offers foundation studies in science and technology for women

If science wasn't on the menu when you were at school, but you have always wanted to find out more about it, this free course, now in its third year of operation, could be the one for you. Even if you have some knowledge of science but would like to do a refresher course in a third level College, you might like to apply. It is free of charge and if you have child or elder care responsibilities you may qualify for a bursary.

We are currently inviting applications from women

• Who are aged 22 or over,

• Who are interested in learning about the fundamentals of chemistry, physics, biology, maths and IT,

• Who are also interested in the 'how to'˜ of study, research, working in a team, and presenting a project,

• Who are in a third level institution, taught by third-level faculty in the University of Limerick and in the Limerick Institute of Technology.

What's on offer?

Although it is a full-time course as far as possible the course is run at times which will fit in with, for example, childcare requirements. So it runs from 10am-2pm every day Monday-Thursday with Friday as a study day.

There is extra help offered with maths through the Maths Learning Centre of the University.

Study skills sessions to help with planning and getting down to study are also available.

Educational and career guidance sessions to help with planning next steps or a return to work are also included in the course.

The course is free of charge and has been recognised by the DFSA as eligible for support under the Back to Education Initiative if you meet the Department's other criteria.

The course offers a Certificate, which is validated by the University of Limerick.

Find out more by coming along to talk to people involved in the course including some former students on Thursday 2nd September 2004 at 6.30 in the Main Building of the University.

Some destinations of former students

Many of the students, who have completed our course go on to further study such as business studies, environmental science, BA degrees, and computer programming.

These can be either in UL, the Limerick Institute of Technology, Mary Immaculate College, Tipperary Institute, or in one of the private sector colleges in town.

Some people choose instead to use their new skills by returning to work. The course opens up choices and opportunities, which may not have seemed to be there before for some people because studying and achieving improve self-confidence in a big way.

This course is free of charge to women. Bursaries to cover childcare and travel costs may also be available. The Dept of Justice, Equality and Law Reform under the Equality Act have provided funding for Women Measure of the National Development Plan.

If you would like to know more about the course including how to apply please ring the Department of Lifelong Learning and Outreach, 061202530 or email lifelonglearning@ul.ie . Visit our web site www.ul.ie/dllo