IRISH Red Cross volunteers from Limerick and across the country were  recognised at an event in the Mansion House, Dublin, for giving more than 50 of service to the welfare of their local communities.
Volunteers were awarded Long Service Medals for their selfless dedication, over five decades, to those most in need. Charlie Flanagan, chair of the Irish Red Cross, presented the volunteers with their awards.
Michael Brennan was a volunteer with the Adare Limerick branch of the Irish Red Cross for 50 years. Michael was involved in community support in the Red Cross, organising social outings for older people to combat isolation and loneliness.
“I’ve made great friends during my time with the Irish Red Cross, friendships that have spanned a lifetime. And that is something I’d like to thank the Irish Red Cross for – wonderful relationships made volunteering together,” he said.
Deirdre Garvey, Irish Red Cross secretary general, added: “These volunteers have been a bastion of support to their local community over many decades. They represent the very best of us and are an inspiration to me and so many others. I deeply admire and respect their generosity of spirit, their positive action and their leadership in demonstrating what it means to serve and to be there for those most in need..”
As Ireland’s humanitarian response network, 4,000 volunteers at 71 Irish Red Cross branches across Ireland help communities prepare for emergencies, respond when they happen and recover stronger and more resilient.
The Irish Red Cross stands with people in crisis, at home and abroad, offering practical help, comfort and hope.