WATCH: Offaly Branch and Simon Casey release Christmas single

In This Section

 
Down Syndrome Ireland’s Offaly branch have released a very special Christmas song. 
 
The group collaborated with singer Simon Casey for their first ever charity single, their very own version of John Lennon’s Happy Xmas (War is Over).
 
The stunning song is accompanied by a joyful video in which members and Macedonia Symphony Orchestra can be seen creating the masterpiece. 
 
The song was launched on Culture Night where the branch spoke about how the idea came about. 
 
Robbie Donnelly, Offaly branch administrator said: “We recorded this song to show that providing people with Down syndrome the opportunity to work is a key step toward fostering their independence, boosting their self-esteem, and promoting inclusion in society.
 
“Employment for individuals with Down syndrome offers numerous benefits not only for the individuals themselves but also for employers, co-workers, and society as a whole.”
 
We had a group of members who wanted to be pop stars, so we gave them the chance.”
 
You can watch the video on Facebook or Instagram.