Cathaoirleach Awards 2024

Councillor Denis O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, awarded civic awards to individuals who through their activity make an exceptional contribution to their wider community.

An Cathaoirleach of dlr recognised the work of some long-serving community members in a range of areas including Southside Travellers Action Group, Shanganagh Park House Community Centre, dlr Disability and Consultation Group, and Archive Services among others.

Councillor Denis O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach, said:

“The awardees recognised are worthy recipients due to their many years of action in a wide range of voluntary and business organisations. They have had profound impact on the quality of life of our citizens.”

Amongst those honoured was Helena Mollaghan, Chair of the dlr Disability Consultation Group, who advocates not only for people with visual impairments but is an important link for all those with a disability and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. Also honoured was Rowena Kelly who pioneered the Loughlinstown Co-Op homeownership and drove the project.

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said:

“The Council honours those that have been awarded and we recognise that it is our partnership with such individuals in the community, along with our services, that makes dlr a county that people want to live, work, and play in. We will continue to support the work of individuals and groups across the County who are working to improve their local communities.”

Martin O’Byrne, owner of Dún Laoghaire menswear store, was recognised for his contributions towards revitalising Dún Laoghaire Town and bringing back the St Patrick’s Day Parade and Ger Corbett, CEO of Sandyford Business District, who has led their ambitious sustainability agenda, were also awarded a Cathaoirleach’s Award.

The full list of 2024 Cathaoirleach’s Award winners is as follows:

• Ger Corbett: CEO, Sandyford Business District
• Susan Flynn: Shanganagh Park House Community Centre
• Rowena Kelly: Loughlinstown Co-Op
• Mary McCawley: Inagh Court
• Helena Mollaghan: Chair, dlr Disability Consultation Group and advocate
• Martin O’Byrne: Owner, Frewen & Aylward and town revitalization
• Margaret O’Leary: Supervisor, Southside Travellers Action Group
• Georgina Sweetnam: dlr Archive Services

Awards were presented in a ceremony on 4th June, 2024 in County Hall, Dún Laoghaire.