Fatima Mansions remains a continuous unfolding story,
in which grief and hope intermingle in private and sometimes very public ways.
The year past was particularly poignant, as the community faced into the full reality of the demolition of flats, the
displacement of residents and the first crude signs of the physical regeneration of the area. Many people also sadly passed away in tragic circumstances in 2003, some families departed never to return, while others continued to count the days leading to a time when houses, community amenities and a safe and sustainable environment for children to grow up in will be finally delivered upon.
2004 should be a breakthrough year. There is a growing sense of optimism - despite Government cutbacks and time delays in advancing the Fatima Regeneration process - that the commitments made to the community will be honoured. To some extent this year's calendar dwells on the twilight of the old Fatima about to be eclipsed and transformed in the years ahead.
This is achieved in part through the juxtaposition of small black and white photographs that document the demolition process, placed opposite the collaborative artworks and faces of local children,
celebrating friendship and togetherness. It is the fourth such
calendar produced in as many years and a moving reminder of the fortitude of an embattled community - a community that places its love and trust in their children's ability to overcome adversity and emerge as creative and confident citizens of Ireland.
This is as it should be. Yet there is much to be addressed and fought for in trying to realise such a vision. The central place of Culture and the role of the Arts in the processes of achieving such change are instinctively understood and promoted within Fatima - the fruits of which are beginning to manifest in all sorts of practical and inspiring ways.Fatima now has a sculptural signpost that is illuminated at night
and a 'Garden of All Things', in which the etched and buried memories of local people reside in peace and with the pride of a community increasingly in charge of its own destiny. All this work was undertaken as core part of the ArkLink programme in 2003.
Your continuing interest and support for such ideals and practises is therefore very important and always appreciated. So, please enjoy the Best Friends Calendar for 2004, stay in touch and have a good year yourself.

Niall O Baoill
Chairperson
Fatima Arklink