Local Tipperary woman awarded for services to hospitality sector

Grace Nagle was recognised recently for her achievement in winning the National Apprenticeship Office 2023 Hospitality Apprentice of the Year.

Grace works as Catering Support staff/Acting Chef with the HSE's catering services on its Western Rd campus in Clonmel.

The outgoing Mayor of the Clonmel Borough District Cllr Richie Molloy recently afforded Grace a Reception at the Town Hall/Tipperary County Council office in Clonmel.

Grace was one of only 14 apprentices to receive awards for their chosen skills sector, with a record 222 apprentices nominated for the awards held by the NAO.

A native of Fethard, living in Ballypatrick, Grace completed her two-year Commis Chef Apprenticeship combining training with the Tipperary Education and Training Board Further Education and Training Centre, whilst working as part of the HSE catering team that serves Tipperary University Hospital and the adjacent St Anthony’s Unit in the HSE’s Older Person’s Services, Haywood Lodge, Haven House, Garryshane House facilities in the HSE’s Mental Health Services.

Earlier in 2023, Grace was also one of three Tipperary ETB apprentices to win awards at the Chef Ireland Final at the Irish Foodservice Suppliers alliance CATEX event in Dublin’s RDS.

Grace’s desire to continuously improve and master a wide range of kitchen skills during her two-year apprenticeship were cited in her Award.

On behalf of Grace’s colleagues in TUH and HSE/South East Community Healthcare services in Clonmel, Margaret Bergin, Catering Services Manager, said they were delighted both for the recognition of one of their team members but also for the positive reflection on the service they provided across various healthcare settings locally.