The 2022 Drogheda Mayoral Awards were presented to eight individuals and one organisation at a ceremony in the Highlanes Gallery last night.
A Mayoral Award is the highest honour that can be bestowed by the Council and, as Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Joan Martin said in her introduction “…it really is a big deal.” Congratulating the nominees she said: “this is the highest honour a council may confer on an individual or group.” and them on their award.
The award recipients are chosen following a nomination and consideration process; awards are granted to persons who demonstrate outstanding service to the community over a period of time, and/or who represent the community nationally or internationally.
Thanking the nominees for their service to the town of Drogheda, Mayor James Byrne said that they “demonstrate the best of the people.”
“If we were to outline in full the work you have done, the leadership you have shown and the successes you have experienced we could be here all night. We’ll keep it simple instead with a brief citation and certificate accompanied by a genuine and heartfelt thank you for what you have achieved, the people you have supported, influenced and inspired as well as the pride you have instilled in us. We are indebted to you and are here tonight to show our gratitude and appreciation.”
The award recipients were:
James Moonan
In recognition of his service to the Arts. As a local artist he was the finalist of the Zurich Young Portrait Prize at the National Gallery of Ireland in 2021 and the overall winner in the Credit Union ‘Imagine’ Art Competition.
Professor Kevin McGuigan
In recognition of his valuable contribution to the provision of vital sustainable water treatment in developing countries and his ongoing promotion and teaching of Medicine, Pharmacy and Physiotherapy with the RCSI.
Robert Murray
In recognition of his service to the greater Drogheda community in his role as President of the Drogheda and District Chamber of Commerce.
Tullyallen Men’s Shed
In recognition of services to the community providing a place of belonging and companionship to its participants. Pictured receiving the award is Shed Chairman David Cusack with members Martin Lane (left) and Patsy Grogan.
Margo Duffy
In recognition of her services to the community, in setting up the Drogheda Breastfeeding Support Group in 2008.
Padraig Rath
In recognition of his outstanding service and contribution to the village of Clogherhead, ClogherheadRNLI Lifeboat Station and the Dreadnots GFC.
Christy Mangan
In recognition of four decades of service to the community as a member of An Garda Siochána and his outstanding leadership in the combating of drug crime and criminality in Drogheda and beyond.
Sam Mulroy
In recognition of his services to sport and as a Louth County footballer and captain, leading Louth to successive promotions from Division 4 to Division 2.
Sister Carol Burke
In recognition of over three decades of Missionary work in Africa and for providing vital nursing and midwifery services to those in need.
