Volunteers honoured at Cathaoirleach’s Awards

The Cavan County Council Cathaoirleach’s Awards made their return at a packed Cavan Crystal Hotel on Thursday, 4th April, as a crowd of almost 200 guests gathered to celebrate the best of volunteerism and community spirit in County Cavan.

The awards, which were being held for the first time since 2019, offer an opportunity for members of the public to nominate individuals or organisations who make a positive difference in their community through their efforts in an unpaid capacity.

There were six categories: Social Inclusion, Contribution to Heritage and Biodiversity, Contribution to the Arts, Sports, Older People (55+), and Community, with an overall award for best overall volunteer. There were 31 nominees in total on the night, all of whom received a certificate.

The award for Social Inclusion, was won by Laura Skelly, for her work with Jumping Jellybeans in Virginia. The award in the Community category was claimed by Ballintemple Variety Troupe. Friends of Castle Lake and Catchment emerged victorious in the Contribution to Local Heritage and Biodiversity category.

The award for Contribution to the Arts was won by The Frolics and Ballyjamesduff Musical Society. Cavan GAA Health and Wellness Committee was the winner in the sports category, while in the final category of the night, Ciaran Weir won the Older People (55+) award.

The overall Cathaoirleach’s Award, which comes with a €1,000 prize, was won by the Cavan GAA Health and Wellness Committee, who were nominated for their work in organizing the successful Cavan GAA All-Stars programme, which helps children with special needs engage with Gaelic games.

Speaking following the award, Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Cllr Philip Brady said, “When I look out and see the talented people before me, I am honoured to stand before you tonight. All of you, whether you were nominated, made a nomination, or are supporting one of our nominees – you are inspiring people in your community, and on behalf of my fellow councillors, I sincerely thank you.”

Cathaoirleach Cllr Philip Brady joins fellow councillors in congratulating the Cavan GAA and Wellbeing Committee on their overall award win in the Cathaoirleach’s Awards 2024.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Philip Brady joins fellow councillors in congratulating the Cavan GAA and Wellbeing Committee on their overall award win in the Cathaoirleach’s Awards 2024.