Colin banks on a breakthrough to fly boxers in
If you see a bunch of Hong Kong policemen wandering around Belfast with boxing gloves on in September, you can thank police officer Colin Downey.
For last year, the PSNI boxing coach flew out to Hong Kong to study Operation Breakthrough, a ground-breaking project using sport to fight crime and juvenile delinquency amongst low income and immigrant communities in Hong Kong.
"Operation Breakthrough aims to help teenagers from disadvantaged backgrounds, without parental support or from dysfunctional families, who have either been arrested by the police for minor offences or have been identified by schools or social workers as being at-risk. Many are recent immigrants from China and have difficulty in becoming assimilated within a new culture," said Colin.
"The project operates in partnership with the Hong Kong Police and the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union and uses sport as the focus of interest for the young people. Through coaching by police instructors, participants are taught the importance of teamwork, trust and discipline.
"Operation Breakthrough introduces these at-risk young people to a safe, stimulating and disciplined environment where they have the opportunity to build their self-esteem and confidence, providing a positive focus in their lives.
"The programme also redefines their relationship with authority figures such as police and teachers.
"So far the project is being seen as a remarkable success, with previous offenders staying out of trouble. There is also evidence of increased school attendance and more integration into the community.
"In the longer term, it is hoped the project can also provide help with employment opportunities.
"It is my intention to invite the Operation Breakthrough Boxing team to Northern Ireland for a week in early September. Obviously the costs involved in bringing two staff and six kids from Hong Kong is quite high, but hopefully I will be getting some assistance from various revenue sources.
"I had a meeting with MLA Anna Lo, who gave me her full support and pointed me towards people in the local Chinese community who may want to get involved either personally or financially, and I'll be meeting the Chinese Welfare Association in the next few weeks to show them my proposals."
Plans include cross-community training days, visits to beauty spots and former conflict zones, and a trip to Colin's old training team to see police training in public order and self defence.
Anyone who can assist and provide financial help should contact Colin: 07854979654 or email, redtriangleabc@hotmail.co.uk.
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Weather for Belfast
Tuesday 14 February 2012
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