10 March 2017 (by email)
Dear Corina,
Thank you for your kind invitation to Dungarvan to meet with the people involved in the Life Outside the Box puppet making project. Regrettably, I am unable to attend in person as I have already committed to visiting a disability service. However, I would be grateful if you would pass on my very best wishes to all of those involved in the project.
Having watched the film, I was impressed by the very gentle way in which it asked important questions on perceptions of disability and ability. All of us have opinions on what we ourselves and others are capable of doing. The use of puppets shows how it is possible to step back and look at ourselves and others in a completely new way. The film demonstrates how this can be an engaging and joyous process. The artistry and dedication of the puppet makers is evident from the fantastic level of detail and character of each puppet. I hope they take great pride in the beautiful objects they created.
I would like to congratulate all of those involved in the project. I am sure that this unique film will go on to inspire many others to think about ability.
With very best wishes
Finian McGrath T.D. , Minister for Disabilities
Finian McGrath TD, Minister of State attending Government and Minister of State at the Departments of Social Protection, Justice & Equality and Health with special responsibility for Disabilities. MoS Mc Grath was appointed Minister of State on 6th May 2016.
