Pictured are Ann Gilbert; Bob Gilbert, winner of Community Volunteer of the Year; Cllr Paddy McDonald, Cathaoirleach, Cavan County Council; Cllr Suzanne Jamal, LAMA; Mags Murray, Chairperson of LAMA Executive, and Eoin Doyle, Director of Services, Cavan County Council at the 2018 All Ireland Communi

Cavan wins on the double at community and council awards

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Cavan scooped two awards at the LAMA All-Ireland Community and Council Awards 2018, which took place in Croke Park on Saturday night, February 3.

In what was a jubilant night for the county’s community sector, Cavan Older People’s Council Chairman Bob Gilbert was named ‘Community Volunteer of the Year’ and the Cavan Pop-Up Gaeltacht organised by Comhairle na nÓg an Chabháin, supported by Cavan County Council, won the gong for ‘Best Irish Language Initiative’.

Bob Gilbert is a stalwart member of the Cavan volunteer community. He is Chair of the Cavan Older People’s Council, a member of the Cavan Age Friendly Alliance, and also sits of the Cavan Local Community Development Committee, representing older people’s interests.

Taking place in June 2017 at Castle Saunderson International Scouting Centre, the Comhairle na nÓg an Chabháin Pop-Up Gaeltacht saw scores of young people converge on West Cavan for two days of ceol, caint, agus craic. The event was supported by Cavan County Council, and received funding from Pobal, administered by Foróige.

Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Cllr Paddy McDonald (SF) paid tribute to both award winners, noting that they were “part of a vibrant and energetic community sector in County Cavan, which works hand in hand with Cavan County Council to improve life in the county for all”.
“I am delighted to see Mr Bob Gilbert honoured for his tireless activism, particularly in the field of making Cavan an Age Friendly County. And for a County Cavan initiative to win ‘Best Irish Language Initiative’ during Bliain na Gaeilge is particularly impressive. Maith sibh go léir,” said Cllr McDonald.
Tommy Ryan, Chief Executive of Cavan County Council said “Here in Cavan we are lucky to have a dynamic and proactive community sector, complemented and supported by the dedication of Cavan County Council staff. These awards are fitting recognition, not only for Bob and for the Pop-Up Gaeltacht Team, but for the entire spectrum of community volunteers across the county.”
Presented by by IPB Insurance and LAMA (Local Authority Members Association), the LAMA All-Ireland Community and Council Awards celebrate collaborations between councils and communities, bringing national recognition to local projects and initiatives.


 

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