'Grandparents' Day' campaign launched

A campaign to have the fourth Sunday in September designated as a national "Grandparents' Day" has been launched by the Friends of the Elderly group.

It is promoting two events for grandparents in Dublin on September 23rd and is calling on community groups and other organisations to join in.

Dermot Kirwan of Friends of the Elderly said the role grand-parents played in families was very important and should be celebrated. "Their life experience can give balance and strength to the family, and if we take time to listen to them, we often find that they are a source of wisdom and practical guidance.

"We know there are a lot of people out there, particularly in the media and entertainment world, who are secretly delighted to be grandparents, but think that being known as Granny or Grandad could be bad for their image," Mr Kirwan said.

"We want them to help us to communicate the happiness that comes with being a grandparent and to join us in encouraging other families to celebrate the day."

Friends of the Elderly has organised a 5km fun run in the Phoenix Park at 11am on September 23rd and is inviting grandparents, parents and grandchildren to take part. The group has also organised a "St Stephen's Green Sunday Stroll" between 2 and 4pm on the same day.

"If you are too far from Dublin, start your own Grandparents' Day event," said Mr Kirwan.