The Cathaoirleach, Councillor Mark Fitzgerald and the Members of Carrick on Suir Municipal District were delighted to welcome our honoured guests from within the District to a reception held on the evening of Wednesday, May 21.
A spirit of celebration filled the air as a series of awards were presented to outstanding individuals and groups from across our community in recognition of their exceptional contributions.
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The event, hosted by the Councillors of Carrick-on-Suir MD, shone a spotlight on those who go above and beyond, whether through tireless voluntary work or remarkable acts of courage and determination.
As the ceremony unfolded, MC for the evening Paul Collins of Ballywire Media, introduced each nominee through prerecorded interviews with their nominating Councillors.
He then brought each nominee to the stage with heartfelt introductions that reflected the spirit of the evening. With warmth and genuine curiosity, Paul engaged the recipients in brief, meaningful conversations that brought their achievements to life for the audience.
Each conversation drew laughter, emotion and applause, as Paul highlighted not just the achievements, but the stories behind them and the lasting impact of the individuals and groups on their communities.
Each of the Elected Members nominated a group or individual for their contribution to the municipal district and the community.
The following were the nominees for 2025:
-Una Hayes and Declan Fanning were recognised for their remarkable bravery in a medical emergency, nominated by Cllr Michael Brennan;
-Carrick on Suir River Rescue for their many years of service to the people of Carrick and surrounding areas in times of need, nominated by Cllr Kieran Bourke;
-Pamela Sweeney for her long-standing voluntary commitment to the Fethard Community, nominated by Cllr Amy Goldsboro;
-Carrick-on-Suir Meals Assistance Service for their ongoing dedication to providing this valuable service throughout the community;
-Fionn Mac Cumhaill Players for all their successes and in particular their accurate and poignant portrayal of Bridget Cleary, nominated by Cllr Mark Fitzgerald.
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By the end of the ceremony, the stage had become a platform for gratitude and community spirit, with many recipients paying tribute to their individual communities and the willingness of communities in Carrick-on-Suir and the wider Municipal District to work together.
“This is a celebration of people who give their time, energy and heart to make a
difference,” said the Cathaoirleach Cllr Mark Fitzgerald.
“These awards are our way of saying thank you and recognising the invaluable impact each nominee has made.”
The evening not only highlighted the individual stories behind the awards but also served as a powerful reminder of the strength and generosity found within the community.
This annual celebratory event was held in the community Hall in Drangan.
This wonderful facility is one of a number of community facilities across the country that provide valuable space for local communities to gather and celebrate.
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