Copyright advertiser
Galway based community projects were honoured at the all-Ireland Pride of Place community awards in Limerick last Friday (November 7 ). Clarinbridge Tidy Towns took first place in the Area with a Population 300-100 category, with Galway Sea Scouts taking runner up spot in the Community Youth Initiative category, losing out to the Belfast-based SHE Project. Judges praised the efforts of the Clarinbridge residents. “We were extremely impressed with the level of council pride and support for the work of this community," their report read. "The Cow Park also deserves special mention with its focus on biodiversity. The judges visited an excellent men’s shed and also heard great stories about the success of the annual festival organised by the community. “The positivity of support of the Holy Ghost community was noticeable, with so much community activity taking place on their grounds including school, leisure facilities and an excellent day care centre for older people. “The final part of the judges’ journey captured what they believe is the caring, supportive and resilient spirit of the community - particularly the story of how the community supported business during an extraordinary flooding crisis. The judges had no doubt about this being an award-winning Pride of Place community.” Commenting on Galway Sea Scouts, the judges said: “This group in existence since 1932, has a very proud history and a very high participation rate. “The leaders we met were outstanding in their voluntary commitment and constantly give their time, experience and knowledge to enhance the important nautical skills necessary to be successful and safe in a sea environment.” The awards, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Dermot Whelan, took place in Limerick’s Strand Hotel, with 400 community volunteers in attendance. Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 23 years ago though a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invaluable work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development. It has grown into the largest competition recognising community development achievements on the island of Ireland.
