08/04/2009

Belfast Mayor Welcomes New Polish Magazine

A monthly magazine aimed at the substantial Polish community now resident in Northern Ireland has been launched this week.

Entitled Kropka PL, the publication's mission is said to be "the consolidation and integration of the Polish community through provision of information, signposting and advice on issues relevant to migrant communities, such as rights and entitlements, local customs and traditions, cultural and educational events".

The publishers also said they want to provide a platform for exchanging experiences and information on practical aspects of an immigrant's life.

Another aim is to work towards diminishing exclusion and creating an opportunity for multicultural dialogue.

Kropka PL's first issue includes an address (in both Polish and English) by the Belfast Mayor, Tom Hartley, a calendar of events for the coming months and an 'ABC' guide of Belfast, featuring diverse issues such as Auntie Annie's pub in Belfast and a story on snooker legend, Alex 'Hurricane' Higgins.

This issue also contains an overview of employment rights, a true-life story of a Polish woman fighting for her rights, an opinion piece on recent dissident attacks from Northern Ireland perspective as well as an entertainment page with a crossword, English lesson and an interactive readers' page.

A spokesman said: "In the view of the latest football violence incidents, we have also added a one-page special insert containing an update on the recent events as well as statements issued by the Polish Community Forum and the PSNI."

Further information: info@kropkapl.org

(BMcC/JM)

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