Stephanie Maguire

FERMANAGH Rose, Stephanie Maguire has selected Fermanagh Women’s Aid as her chosen charity for the year.
The Marlbank woman who is flying the Erne flag at this year’s Rose of Tralee festival says she is keen to raise greater public awareness of domestic violence and to help Fermanagh Women’s Aid maintain their level of services. 25-year-old Stephanie was inspired to choose Fermanagh Women’s Aid following undertaking research on the role of schools in shaping young peoples’ attitudes toward domestic violence at University.
“It has been reported that domestic violence is rising in Fermanagh, yet Women’s Aid, who have the ability to deliver potentially lifesaving services to victims of domestic and sexual violence, have received a funding cut. This means the already over-stretched charity designed to protect people from violence are forced to create an eight-week waiting list.”
The Fermanagh Rose has numerous ideas to raise money for the charity which have yet be finalised. Stephanie has been busy representing Fermanagh since winning the crown, and is currently preparing to head off to the Rose of Tralee International Festival, which commences on August 14th.
“It has been a very hectic and most enjoyable few weeks since becoming the Fermanagh Rose. I have visited local schools, businesses and landmarks, presented prizes and attended festivals, met fellow Roses and liaised with Women’s’ Aid Fermanagh.
“The support and kindness I have received from the people of Fermanagh has been overwhelming. I want to take this opportunity to thank all the local businesses who have kindly sponsored me so far on my journey to the dome,” concluded Stephanie.