The annual Cathaoirleach's Awards Ceremony took place on Wednesday, 11th December at County Hall, honouring outstanding contributions across eight diverse categories.
Cathaoirleach's Awards Ceremony Celebrates Local Excellence
This year’s event was a testament to the incredible talent, dedication, and community spirit found throughout Sligo.
The ceremony, presided over Cathaoirleach, Councillor Declan Bree, brought together a diverse array of talents and initiatives that have enriched and uplifted the fabric of Sligo. In his opening address, the Cathaoirleach emphasised the significance of community spirit and collective action in shaping a brighter future for Sligo.
"Tonight, we gather to celebrate the remarkable individuals and groups who make Sligo a vibrant and dynamic place to live. Your hard work and commitment to our community are truly inspiring," the Cathaoirleach said.
The ceremony highlighted achievements in the following 8 categories:
| Category | Winner | Presented by |
|---|---|---|
| ARTS, CULTURE AND LITERATURE | Kids Own Publishing Partnership | Cllr Gino O'Boyle |
| COMMUNITY (GROUP) | Easkey Enhancement Association | Cllr Joe Queenan |
| COMMUNITY (INDIVIDUAL) | Ann O'Dare | Cllr Donál Gilroy |
| ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE ACTION | Sligo Grammar School Green School Committee | Cllr Gerard Mullaney |
| HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE | Marion Dowd, Robert Mulraney, James Bonsall | Cllr Arthur Gibbons |
| SCHOOLS / YOUNG ENTERPRISE | St. Michael's N.S Student Council | Cllr Paul Taylor |
| SPIRIT OF SLIGO | Michael Quirke | Cllr Declan Bree |
| SPORTS | Aidan Mullane | Cllr Michael Clarke |
Joining the Cathaoirleach on the Awards Committee were Cllr. Michael Clarke, Cllr. Arthur Gibbons, Cllr. Dónal Gilroy, Cllr. Gerard Mullaney, Cllr. Gino O'Boyle, Cllr. Joseph Queenan, Cllr. Paul Taylor who diligently reviewed all nominations before selecting the deserving winners.
Each award winner was presented with a commemorative glass piece and a certificate, symbolising their outstanding achievements and contributions to the community.
The Cathaoirleach continued,
"Each nominee represents the spirit of Sligo. From the arts to environmental initiatives, your contributions enrich our culture and heritage. It is a pleasure to honour you today."
In his closing remarks, the Cathaoirleach emphasised the importance of collaboration and community engagement, saying,
"Together, we are building a brighter future for our county. Let us continue to support one another as we strive for excellence in every field."
The evening concluded with a celebratory performance by the Sligo Concert Band, adding to the festive atmosphere of the occasion.
Category: Arts, Culture and Literature
Presented by: Councillor Gino O'Boyle
Winner: Kids Own Publishing Partnership
Kids Own Publishing Partnership has worked with migrant, refugee, traveller, Roma children, and children and young people with disabilities, providing them with a platform to express themselves through art and literature. Their projects have been truly inspiring, including a wonderful collaboration with St Cecilia's Special School, which resulted in a beautifully crafted book featuring the artwork of the participants.
Kids Own Publishing Partnership approach to arts education is exemplary, working with excellent local artists and writers to deliver engaging and inclusive workshops that allow young people to take an active role in shaping the activities and projects that they participate in.
Their commitment to amplifying the voices of young people is further demonstrated through their Youth Advisory group, which ensures that the opinions and ideas of children and young people are heard and valued.
Category: Community Group
Presented by: Councillor Joe Queenan
Winner: Easkey Enhancement Association
Easkey Enhancement Association has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to their community. This group held their first public meeting on 18th September 2023, with an impressive turnout of over 140 people, showcasing the cross-community interest and support for their cause. This was the first step in developing an action plan for the area, and the group has since compiled a five-year vision report for their area.
Easkey Enhancement Association group is carrying on the great work commenced by LEAP (Living in Easkey and Proud), and their chairperson has stated that "if everyone gives a small bit we can achieve much by working together." This ethos is evident in their efforts to light-up Easkey for Christmas this year, where they are fundraising for the purchase of Christmas Trees, outdoor decorations for the village, and the decoration of Santa's Grotto.
The commitment and dedication of Easkey Enhancement Association is truly commendable.
Category: Community Individual
Presented by: Councillor Donál Gilroy
Winner: Ann O'Dare
Ann O’Dare serves as the backbone of Cliffoney, dedicating endless hours to the betterment of the village and its residents.
Ann is deeply involved in the community, working tirelessly to make Cliffoney a better place to live. Her contribution is immense, working selflessly and modestly to enhance the quality of life for all residents. Always approachable, with a caring and helpful demeanour, this individual exemplifies the spirit of community service.
In particular, this Ann plays a significant role in the local Hall Committee, serving as a crucial point of contact for organising events and maintaining the hall for various community activities. Ann is heavily involved in keeping the village tidy and ensuring that the grounds of the church are aesthetically pleasing and welcoming to all visitors.
Ann’s dedication to various local groups, including the Cliffoney Community Forum, Cliffoney Hall, Defibrillator Group, and more, showcases their unwavering commitment to community service. Ann’s involvement in fundraising, organising events, and contributing to the overall well-being of the village is truly commendable.
Ann's lifetime of outstanding service to the Cliffoney community, spanning involvement in various groups and activities, is a testament to her kindness and generosity. Her relentless and selfless work has made Cliffoney a better place for all residents, ensuring that the village remains vibrant and welcoming to all.
Category: Environment And Climate Action
Presented by: Councillor Gerard Mullaney
Winner: Sligo Grammar School Green School Committee
Through inspiring quotes and vibrant tree paintings adorning their school walls, Sligo Grammar School Green School Committee foster meaningful conversations about climate action. Their victories in competitions such as the WEEE contest and the Green Schools Ireland Second-hand September competition not only make a tangible environmental impact but also extend crucial support to those in need.
Sligo Grammar School Green School Committee involvement in the Let's Fix Fashion campaign, the #andshecycles initiative, and projects like the beach clean-up and Power to Change project showcase their multifaceted approach to sustainability. Furthermore, their engagement in events like An Taisce's Global Goals week underscores their commitment to raising awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals.
The various activities the Committee have organised, from fundraising for charitable causes through clothes collections and non-uniform days to educational displays on fast fashion and climate change, highlight their holistic approach to environmental advocacy. Sligo Grammar School Green School Committee efforts in tree planting, water conservation, and waste management reflect a comprehensive commitment to creating a more eco-conscious community.
Category: Heritage and The Irish Language
Presented by: Councillor Arthur Gibbons
Winner: Marion Dowd, Robert Mulraney, James Bonsall
Through the meticulous research and dedication of Marion Dowd, James Bonsall, Robert Mulraney, they have brought to light the narratives of the people of the Civil War era in Sligo, particularly through their work on the Tormore cave.
Their publications, notably the recently launched "An Irish Civil War Dugout: Tormore Cave, County Sligo. Archaeology, History, Memory," represent a groundbreaking exploration of a little-known aspect of Irish history. By delving into the role of dugouts in guerrilla warfare during Ireland's revolutionary period, they have expanded our understanding of this pivotal time in our nation's history.
The prestigious Literary Award they received at SUICRO 2024 acknowledges the pioneering nature of their research, which combines archaeology, military history, community memory, and landscape studies to provide a comprehensive examination of this significant historical site. Their efforts shed light on a previously uncharted territory in Irish history, offering a detailed account of the hidden sanctuary that Tormore Cave provided for IRA fighters during a tumultuous period.
It is noteworthy that much of this groundbreaking work was carried out by these Marion, Robert and James as unpaid researchers and volunteers, highlighting their dedication to preserving our heritage and honouring the memory of those who played a role in the events of 101 years ago. Their commitment to gathering information, excavating the cave, and piecing together a timeline of events has not only enriched our understanding of the past but also given dignity and meaning to the families connected to these historical events.
Category: Schools / Young Enterprise
Presented by: Councillor Paul Taylor
Winner: St Michael's N.S Student Council, Cloonacool
St Michael's N.S Student Council, ranging in age from 8 to 12, has gone above and beyond in their contributions to the community and in representing the voices of their peers. They have organised various initiatives that showcase not only their dedication but also their compassion and selflessness.
Throughout the year, they organised a clothing collection to generate funds for their school, participated in the Christmas shoe box appeal, and coordinated a food drive in partnership with Sligo Social Services. Their efforts were not just about collecting items but also about engaging with the community and understanding the impact of their actions.
Moreover, they seized an opportunity when visited by Dan Gorman from the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, who generously donated a signed Manchester United jersey. The council decided to raffle the jersey to raise funds for educational resources, demonstrating their strategic thinking and commitment to enhancing their school environment.
Category: Spirit of Sligo
Presented by: Councillor Declan Bree
Winner: Michael Quirke
Michael Quirke made his mark in Sligo as a young lad when he became a butcher in 1957. However, it was in 1970 that his true talent began to shine through as he started carving figures out of wood alongside his butchery business. Over the years, Michael’s wood carvings evolved into a full-time endeavour, showcasing figures from Irish mythology and local personalities, including the renowned poet W.B. Yeats. By 1988, the carving had become his sole focus, a testament to his passion and dedication.
You may have passed by his quaint shop on Wine Street, witnessing Michael delicately chipping away at a piece of wood only to return later and find a masterpiece adorning his window. During the summer months, Michael can often be found crafting and enchanting visitors from around the globe with his profound knowledge of Sligo's folklore and mythology. Michael effortlessly weaves together personal anecdotes with the myths and legends of our county, personalising his creations and sharing his wisdom with everyone who crosses his path.
Michael Quirke is a true gem, a custodian of history and a custodian of stories. Michael’s dedication to his craft, his artistry, and his unparalleled storytelling abilities have made him a beloved figure in Sligo and beyond. Michael’s shop is not just a place of wood carvings but a sanctuary of tales and legends that bring Irish mythology to life.
Michael’s contributions to our community, his dedication to preserving our heritage, and his unyielding spirit of generosity and kindness make him a true beacon of the ‘Spirit of Sligo’.
Michael was unable to attend the Cathaoirleach's Awards Ceremony to receive his award. However, Michael's daughter Tara happily received the award on his behalf.
Category: Sports
Presented by: Councillor Michael Clarke
Winner: Aidan Mullane
Aidan Mullane, a good cyclist in his own right, has achieved remarkable feats despite facing significant challenges. His dedication to cycling is unparalleled, as he competes with only one leg, showcasing unparalleled determination and resilience.
Aidan has not only excelled in representing Ireland for track cycling but has also medalled at the National Time Trial Championships, demonstrating exceptional skill and commitment to the sport. Beyond personal accomplishments, Aidan is a senior member of the club, providing invaluable coaching to both new and experienced members in a unique and inspiring manner.
Moreover, Aidan volunteers his time to support local racing events, serving as a motivational figure for all cyclists in Sligo. In a particularly noteworthy endeavour in 2024, Aidan led a cycling journey from Mizen to Malin Head in just four days, raising over €52,000 for the Brian Domi Support Trust alongside seven other cyclists.
This feat, accomplished with humility and grace, exemplifies Aidan’s selfless dedication to supporting charitable causes and his community.
