Cathaoirleach’s Awards 2023 Showcases The Best Of Mayo
Date: 08-03-2024
On Thursday, March 7th, 2024, at a community celebration evening in Breaffy House Resort, the winners of the Mayo County Council Cathaoirleach’s Awards 2023 were announced.
Mayo County Council’s civic awards which are now in their third year, recognise the dedication and efforts of the many community volunteer groups at work in County Mayo, as they work quietly behind the scenes to make our communities stronger, more vibrant, and caring places to live.
After a public nomination process last autumn and a shortlisting process, over 100 groups and individual nominees were invited to the presentation evening, which was attended by 400 guests, which celebrated their achievements and provided a fitting platform to showcase their incredible work to a wide audience.
The winners were:
Mayo Publication Awards – Commercial Publishers: Henry Wills – In All Kinds of Weather.
Environmental Awards - Environmental Initiatives: Energy and/or Travel: Mulranny Community Futures.
Contribution to Local Heritage and Biodiversity Awards - Contribution to Local Heritage: Joint Winners - Irishtown Heritage Group & Hennigan’s Heritage Centre.
Contribution to Community Life Awards - Community Social Inclusion: Castlebar Tidy Towns and Breaffy Community Council.
Contribution to the Preservation and Promotion of the Irish Language – Gaeltacht based: Turas Siar.
Contribution to the Arts in Mayo: Jean Tuomey.
Contribution to Local Heritage and Biodiversity Awards - Contribution to Local Biodiversity and Natural Heritage: Swift Conservation Mayo.
Environmental Initiatives: Circular Living – Waste and/or Litter: Claremorris Tidy Towns
Contribution to the Preservation and Promotion of the Irish Language – Non-Gaeltacht based: Coiste Féile Sheáin Mhic Pháidín.
Contribution to Community Life Awards – Community Endeavour Award: Facefield Community Group.
Outstanding Contribution to Mayo Life: The Late Padraig Brogan.
Mayo Publication Awards – Publications from Community Groups: Waterfall Committee –Tourmakeady – Waterfall Parish Magazine 2023.
Contribution to Diaspora Wellbeing/Engagement Award: Brian O’Dwyer.
Environmental Awards – Green Community Group of the Year: Ballina Karen Community Green Garden.
Community Tourism Award: Geesala Festival Committee.
Cathaoirleach’s Special Recognition Award: Betty Goodman.
Cllr Michael Loftus, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council said at the awards: “Tonight, we gather here to celebrate the extraordinary individuals and groups whose tireless efforts weave the vibrant tapestry of our home here, in county Mayo.
Your unwavering dedication to your local communities enriches all our lives, strengthens your locality, and shapes the very soul of our fair county.
The essence of these awards lies in recognising the profound impact of voluntarism, that selfless spirit that beats within the heart of our communities.
“It is the countless hours of dedication, the helping hands extended, and the unwavering belief in a better future that breathes life into the initiatives, projects, and people that we will honour here tonight.
“You are the people that make Mayo the most fantastic place to call home and make me proud to be your Cathaoirleach and most importantly a Mayo-man.
Kevin Kelly, Chief Executive of Mayo County Council said on the evening: “All of us in Mayo County Council, hold the deepest appreciation for the work you do. It goes beyond measurable results in a report on a page.
“You foster a sense of belonging, pride of place and people, and it builds a stronger, more resilient and dedication to the ideals of community and what it means for future generations to come.
The impact you have is evident in in the preservation and restoration of our natural landscapes, in the echoes of our rich cultural and artistic heritage.
“You are the architects and stewards of a stronger, more vibrant Mayo, a place where the spirit of community truly flourishes and grows into the future.
“We celebrate your achievements tonight and let this be a reminder to you all: the work you do holds immense value. Never underestimate the power of your actions, and how the ripple effect of how far your smallest deed can spread, grow and inspire.”