Photo was taken at Tooreenbawn, Millstreet, CO.Cork (Irl)

It may still be February but already nature is alert and active. These bees are busy in and out of this beehive. The bee to the left has collected yellow pollen to feed the young inside, while the bee to the right is lining up for the perfect land.

‘Two thirds of the poorest people in the world live in rural areas, relying for survival on rain fed agriculture. As a result of climatic change, rainfall has become far less predictable.’ ~Trocaire

Every year Trocaire picks some particular project for their Lenten campaign. This year they are focusing in on climate change. We are all to some degree affected by climate change but it is in developing countries where the most serious impact is already being felt. Drought is now the most catastrophic natural event affecting food production, particularly in Africa. It is estimated that 250 million people will face severe water shortages within the next 15 years. This could mean a 50% reduction in crop yield. By developing irrigation schemes that bring water into communities and into households, Trocaire is helping people to change their lives. Every time we use water this weekend we can remember just how lucky we are and if our Trocaire box is looking lean and light we know what needs to be done!