Mayo award winners are congratulated by Minister Ring

THE Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring TD, has congratulated Sister Maureen Lally who has been awarded the Virginia Gallagher Mayo Person of the Year award for 2018.

Minister Ring also congratulated Eachleim community and Michaela Walsh who were awarded the Mayo Meitheal Award and the Mayo Young Person of the Year award respectively.

He said: “I have no doubt that Sister Maureen will not want any fuss to be made of her. However it is only right that, as a community, we recognise the magnificent work she does on behalf of the less advantaged among us. She has devoted herself to helping others and this award is a statement of appreciation on behalf of the people of Mayo for her what she has done for her community.

“Sister Maureen is the driving force behind the Tochar Valley Rural Community Network which does magnificent work in 18 communities stretching from Balla to Murrisk. It has had a major impact in relation to village enhancement, income generation, youth involvement, walks development, leadership training, natural and cultural heritage, women’s groups and sustainable tourism. It helps communities to help themselves.

“Last month I allocated €75,000 in funding through my department for the Tochar Valley Rural Community Network. I know that this money will be put to excellent use. Sister Maureen is a tireless voice for communities in south west Mayo in relation to poverty, disadvantage and equality. Through her work she has had an extremely positive impact on so many people and communities and she is a hugely valued member of our community.

“I was also delighted to see that Comharchumann Forbartha Ionad Deirbhile Teo (CFID), Eachleim, Blacksod, was named the Mayo Meitheal Award recipient for their contribution to the R116 rescue effort. During a time of extreme adversity the community rallied around and made a vital contribution to the rescue effort.

“Over 100 community volunteers, homeowners, fishermen and farmers, local businesses, sporting and community bodies came together to help the emergency services in the search of the four crew members. This award is much deserved and fitting recognition of their contribution to the rescue effort.

“I also congratulate the 2018 Young Mayo Person of the Year, 18-year-old Michaela Walsh from Swinford. She has set a number of new Irish records for her age group in hammer throwing and has been recognised locally, nationally and internationally.

"Michaela’s bronze medal in the hammer at the European Junior (Under 20) Championships last year is the first ever Irish medal in the hammer event at European Championship level. I wish her the very best for the years ahead as she develops her very special talent,” concluded Minister Ring.

* Pictured at the announcment of the award winners are, from left, John Gallagher of Meitheal Award winners, Comharchumann Forbartha Ionad Deirbhile Teo (CFID), Sister Maureen Lally, Islandeady, Mayo Person of the Year, Michaela Walsh, Swinford Athletic, Young Mayo Person of the Year, and Garda Supt. Tony Healy, of Meitheal Award winners, Comharchumann Forbartha Ionad Deirbhile Teo (CFID). PHOTO: PAUL SHERWOOD