VIDEO: Legendary nun is honoured in her native Mayo

THE achievements of a Co. Mayo born nun, famed as “The Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous” have been celebrated at two seperate locations – Shanvally, Burren and Castlebar.

A plaque in memory of Sister Mary Ignatia, who was born Della Mary Gavin in 1889, was unveiled by Archbishop Michael Neary in the sparse remnants of her birthplace at Shanvally.

Just over an hour later, the Parish Centre in Castlebar was the location of a similar ceremony in honour of a woman who played a pivotal role in the first provision of medical treatment for alcoholics in the United States more than 70 years ago.

Donal O'Shea, acting as master of ceremonies at both events, made special mention to the central role Frank Keane from Newport (formerly U.S.A.) played as instigator of the commemoration.

More on next week's print edition of the Connaught Telegraph.