Adventure Retreats Ireland, the youth retreat initiative of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts in Cootehill has reported that a total of 948 young people have been on retreat with the project since it opened its doors in late September 2011 for year two of its operation. Project director, Shane Halpin said, "This represents a four fold increase on the same time last year as to date we have had 17 retreats in just two months." The team which is made up of five young adults is delighted with the response. Team leader Gareth McNulty, now in his second year with ARI said,"The response has been very positive and we are busy almost every week with either an insitu school retreat in the locality or adventure retreat. We are looking forward to even more opportunities in the new year."

The project is still offering local Monaghan schools free transport to and from the centre as part of its efforts to increase awareness of this exciting youth initiative.

Image: ARI 2012 team - Mickenzie, Gareth, Becca, Allison and Todd at Damien Centre, Tanagh, Cootehill