28 Irish Red Cross volunteers from across the country, including Paddy McAuliffe from Mallow Red Cross, were recognised at an event in the Mansion House, Dublin, recently, for giving 50+ years of service to their local communities. Volunteers from Clare, Cork, Donegal, Limerick, Louth and Dublin were awarded Long Service Medals for their selfless dedication, over five decades, to those most in need. Charlie Flanagan, Chair, Irish Red Cross presented the volunteers with their awards.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Charlie Flanagan said, “It really is remarkable that these wonderful volunteers have dedicated so much time and energy to help others. Over an astonishing 50 years, they have committed themselves to their local community. The work they’ve done over those decades – providing first aid support at local events, teaching CPR skills to school students and community groups, offering therapeutic hand massages to nursing home residents, to mention just some examples – have touched so many lives, young and old. Thanks to their quiet, steady leadership, their skills and experience built up over many years, and ultimately their compassion and humanity, our communities are stronger and more resilient.”
As Ireland’s humanitarian response network, 4000 volunteers at 71 Irish Red Cross branches across Ireland help communities prepare for emergencies, respond when they happen and recover stronger and more resilient. The Irish Red Cross stands with people in crisis, at home and abroad, offering practical help, comfort and hope.