From left: John Maguire, Civil Defence Officer; Eithne O’Reilly; Francie Duignan; Fr Seán McDermott; Andrew Sexton; Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Mícheál Martin; Siobhán Cooney; Teresa McGovern; Neil Doherty; Francie Brady and Carmel Prior, Assistant Civil Defence Officer.

Civil Defence volunteers awarded for long service

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Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin, has presented long service medals to eight dedicated Civil Defence volunteers from County Cavan with a combined service of over 300 years.

The medals were awarded to members for completing 30, 40, 50 and even 60 years of service in the Civil Defence during a ceremony in Trinity College Dublin.

The Tánaiste said: “I am delighted to formally honour the long and distinguished years of service of these Civil Defence members. They have each dedicated so much of their lives to serving their communities in times of need.

“The Civil Defence plays an essential role in so many aspects of daily life, whether responding to search and rescue, flooding or other events. It is because of this vital role that the Government is committed to continuing its investment in the modernisation of the Civil Defence to ensure that this invaluable organisation continues to grow and carry out its crucial work.”

Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Cllr Philip Brady said: “I commend these long-serving stalwarts of Cavan Civil Service on their fantastic achievements in reaching such significant milestones in their service of their community. Their skill and dedication is an inspiration to us all.”

Thirty-year long service medals were presented to Neil Doherty, Andrew Sexton, Siobhán Cooney, Teresa McGovern, and Francie Brady. Fr Seán McDermott was awarded a 40-year medal, Eithne O’Reilly received a 50-year medal, while Francie Duignan was awarded a medal for an astonishing 60 years’ service.

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