AGM 2019
The 78th Annual General Meeting
The 78th AGM was held on Thursday 21st March 2019 in the Europa Hotel, Belfast – a new venue for this year. The proceedings were chaired by Federation President Lady Anthony Hamilton and the Europa’s grand ballroom was filled with hundreds of members, keen to catch up with friends from across the province and reflect on the WI’s achievements.
The six Sub-Committee’s each showcased the great work that they do throughout the year, with fabulous table displays depicting their many and varied activities. Detailed reports were delivered by Federation Chairman Collette Craig and by Federation Honorary Treasurer Pamela Brown.
Also on the morning’s agenda, was a Resolution brought by Drumbeg WI, to combat the rising problem of Human Trafficking in Northern Ireland and raise awareness of this exploitation in our society.
In the afternoon, the talented prize winners for the year were presented with their awards and warmly congratulated by Lady Anthony.
The guest speaker was Dr Michael McBrien, a consultant anesthetist at the Royal Victoria Hospital. Dr McBrien delivered an emotive illustrated presentation on the great aid work carried out onboard the Africa Mercy Ship, a huge hospital ship docked off the coast of Africa. The audience was captivated as he discussed his experiences on board the ship and the inspirational team of people from up to forty nations who give their time and expertise for free. Many ladies became emotional as he spoke of the heart-breaking plight of the people that they help, most of whom have no access to basic surgical care on land. He went on to share some personal accounts of those who have had their lives transformed by the care they received on the ship – and there weren’t many dry eyes in the crowd by the time he had finished speaking!
Overall, the 2019 Annual General Meeting was a successful day and the Europa was a great venue and very accessible for all the members who had travelled far and wide to be in attendance. The proceedings concluded in true WI spirit with everyone joining in with the of singing of A Countrywoman’s Song.
Guests at the AGM (L-R): General Secretary Irene Sproule, guest speaker Dr Michael McBrien, Federation President Lady Anthony Hamilton, Federation Chairman Collette Craig and past Federation Chairman Helen Livingston (centre).
Federation Chairman Collette Craig takes to the stage.
Guest speaker Dr Michael McBrien in action.
The Federation’s General Secretary Irene Sproule from WI Headquarters takes to the mic.
Faces in the audience at the AGM – do you recognize anyone?!
Our trophy girl Collette!
AGM awards ready to be presented to the talented WI prize winners.
Jane Laverick and Christina Haycock of Newtownbreda WI pictured with their winning trophies, which were presented at the AGM.
Joy Caskie of Aghanloo WI (right) receiving the Phyllis Gailey Literary Trophy from Federation President Lady Anthony Hamilton (left).
The Homecraft Sub-Committee’s beautiful display table.
The Home and Garden Sub-Committee’s display table showcasing their work at the AGM.
Some of the artwork by talented WI members, showcased at the Arts Sub-Committee display table.
Beautiful pieces of artwork, created in various mediums, on display at the AGM.
Some close-up shots of the artwork created by WI members.
Members admiring the beautiful artwork on display at the Arts Sub-Committee display table.
