Group of 11 members raise thousands for charity with their lively performances
A LOCAL retired men’s choir visited the Dáil last week at the invitation of local Fine Gael TD Emer Higgins.
A group of 11 members of the Newcastle-based RAMS [Retired Active Men’s Social] in Rhythm Choir were treated as special guests when they went to Government buildings last Wednesday, February 2.
RAMS in Rhythm are perhaps best known for raising thousands of euros for charity through their lively performances all around the county, in places like The Square, The Mill, and Peamount. However, the group got to rest their voices last week and enjoy a lunch in the Dáil and a tour of the building.
Matt Dowling from RAMS in Rhythm told The Echo: “On arrival, we were guided to the Dáil restaurant by the house usher, and Emer, as special guests on the day.
“The Maître’d greeted us all personally to the restaurant and introduced us to many of the dining room personnel.
“We were all seated in a very pleasant area and served by excellent professional staff.
“We were served a very pleasant light lunch, and much banter was heard among all our members.
“Following lunch, and bidding our farewell and thanks to the dining room staff, we were again greeted by the usher, who gave us all a wonderful tour of the house, a visit to the live Dáil chambers, where the Dáil was in session.
“It was a very unique experience for us all.
“Following the Dáil session, we then visited the lower chamber, Seanád, which too was a lovely experience.
“Our host, Deputy Emer Higgins, was in the chambers, as we made our exit, and we are very grateful for a wonderful day, and an excellent experience.”
Matt added that the experience was one for the group to tick off their bucket list, and has set them in good stead for their upcoming performances.
On Tuesday, February 14, RAMS in Rhythm will perform in Peamount at 11am, and again on Wednesday, March 15 at 11am.
They will also perform in Tallaght University Hospital on March 16 from 1 to 2pm, and Avoca Rathcoole on March 18, from 12 noon.
