Cathaoirleach Commends Civil Defence Volunteers

5 April 2017

The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Hubert Keaney has paid tribute to the Civil Defence Volunteers and asked people to reflect on the valued role they play in our community.

The Cathaoirleach was speaking at the Civil Defence National Exercise which was held on 1st April, where the local volunteers were joined by teams from Donegal, Roscommon and Leitrim.

There were three competitive sites for the overall competition (Casualty, Search, Communications) a Welfare site and a workshop with a presentation on concussion. Overall winners on the day were Donegal team, and winners on the Welfare site dealing with the displaced persons were the Longford team

The Cathaoirleach said

“The exercise confirmed for me the professionalism and attention to detail which are the hall-marks of the Civil Defence Organisation. I think the sad events of recent weeks has deepened the sense of gratitude and appreciation people have for our front line emergency services and first-responders, people who give so generously of their time and expertise for the common good.”

                     Councillor Hubert Keaney, Cathaoirleach

Volunteering Capital

This year Sligo is celebrating its status as ‘European Capital of Volunteering’, and while there may be disparity in scale between Sligo and previous holders of the mantle – London, Lisbon and Barcelona – there is a most definite unity of purpose and ambition, and the passion and commitment of Sligo’s volunteers burns as brightly as it does for our European colleagues. Being designated ‘European Capital of Volunteering’ is a special honour, it carries responsibilities and offers opportunities; But given the calibre of our volunteer community, I know Sligo will embrace this accolade with pride, ambition and purpose.

Tradition of Volunteerism

There is a long and rich tradition of volunteerism in Ireland, and communities all over the country are energised and enhanced by the dedicated people like our Civil Defence volunteers who give of their time for the common good, without any expectation of acknowledgement or reward.

Indeed I would go as far as to say if anyone sought to examine a template or model of outstanding voluntary endeavour, I would ask them to look no further than our Civil Defence organisations throughout the country.

Expertise and Experience

Attend any major sporting, civic or community event in this region, and it is likely that Civil Defence will be involved. Their expertise and experience has been a re-assuring presence for event organisers, and the discreet and unassuming way they carry out their duties is widely admired.

I know from Sligo County Council’s perspective, if any major public event or initiative is being planned, Marion Davis and her team are our first point of contact for advice and direction. In acknowledging the valuable role played by our Civil Defence volunteers this evening, we celebrate the selfless individuals around our county who contribute so much to their community.’

 

 

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