A community group in Leitrim has succeeded in turning a ruined church into a centre for high-tech computer training. But it appears the civic-spirited enthusiasts will have to rely on divine intervention if they are ever to get an ISDN line.
Eleven computers are now in place beneath stained-glass windows in the beautifully restored Church of Ireland church at Rossinver. Located just a couple of miles from the Border, the centre has linked up with Fermanagh College which accredits its computer courses. Fifty six people are receiving computer training and another 10 have completed an introductory course.
A "community trainers" scheme is also being run to enable local people to train others in the basics before they progress to courses taught by professionals.
The manager of the centre, Mr Michael Grainger, explained the difficulties it was having without an ISDN line. "We rang Eircom and were told `no way'. We have tried using Internet-sharing software but the line speed is so slow if you split the signal it just gets even slower," he said.
The group is going to join forces with other community organisations nearby to lobby for high-speed ISDN lines to be brought to their areas.
Work began on the church in 1995 after the Church of Ireland agreed to lease the building for a nominal rent. It was then without a roof, floor or windows.
It was decided to retain as many of the original features as possible. Young people from Derry joined with locals in restoring the building under a Wider Horizons cross-Border programme.
The new stained-glass windows, representing the seasons, were designed and made by local sisters, Maureen and Sharon Byrne. The Ballagh Centre was officially opened in recent weeks but already a wide variety of courses have been run.
"We've had everything from belly dancing to yoga," said Mr Grainger. Training in crafts is also being provided. Organisations using the centre include an after-school group for children, women's groups, people with disabilities and the elderly.
"We got funding of £240,000 but that was matched by the work of local people, who have been incredibly generous," Mr Grainger said.