This article is from page 11 of the 2006-06-13 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 11 JPG
KILRUSH Town Council will recognise the town’s unique community spirit when it presents the “Gradaim Ui Rhochainn” awards this Friday at 7 pm.
This year, 17 people and groups are nominated for the award from a cross-section of artist, entertainers, volunteers and community workers.
Among those nominated are Gerardine (Ger) Rush, Toler Street, Kilrush; Antonio Cebas for his work with the Brothers of Charity in Hector St., Kilrush; Breda Roughan, Granatooha, Knockerra, Cooraclare; and Patti Lynch, John St., Kilrush who has not let her battle with Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) deter her from fundraising for the charity DEBRA Ireland. Other nominees include Vincent O’Halloran; Bridín Griffin, O’Gorman St., Kilrush; Saint V.De.P. Society, Shannon Heights, Kilrush; Robert Clancy, Barrack Road, Kilkee and the director of the Hell for Leather school and show, John Fennell.
The organisations and groups short listed for the overall award include the West Clare Dyslexic Support Group, Family Resource Centre, West Clare Women’s Forum, Irish Red Cross Kilrush Branch, and South West Clare Community Radio Ltd./Raidio Corca Baiscinn. The late Úna Coffey of Burton Street, Kilrush has also been included on the list of honours.
Two members of Kilrush Town Council have also been nominated for the award. Cllr Stephen O’Gorman (FF) has been included on the list as has Mary Prendeville and her husband Cllr Tom Prendeville (FF), who as mayor, presented the award last year.
In 1993, the council established the concept of the awards to give public recognition to the great work, commitment and dedication of Cllr. Cissie Roughan, a member of Kilrush Urban District Council from 1980-1991. Last year, the Sisters of Mercy won the town’s highest accolade, for their 150 years dedication to education in the West Clare capital.