Killeen Congratulates County Clare’s Water Safety Volunteers

Minister of State and Clare T.D., Tony Killeen has congratulated the ten water safety officers and volunteers from County Clare who were today honoured at Irish Water Safety’s [IWS] annual awards ceremony in Dublin Castle.

[ClickPress, Tue Nov 18 2008] Long service awards were presented to local men and women for service ranging from 10 to 30 years.

According to Minister of State Killeen: “Cumulatively, the work of these 10 water safety volunteers and officers represent some 190 years of service to water safety. It is impossible to know how many lives were saved directly by the valiant work encompassed within these years of noble service. The service given by each of these people is exceptional and they deserve this special recognition.”

Minister Killeen paid tribute to Irish Water Safety (IWS) and to their many volunteers throughout County Clare for their important role in promoting water safety.

"I would like to commend IWS on the effectiveness of their educational and practical lifesaving skills programmes. There are a lot more people participating in swimming and water sports generally now as a result, therefore contributing to an increased awareness of water safety issues”; he added.

"Drowning is a needless tragedy. Awareness of the dangers presented by water allied to the ability to swim and life save are the critical factors in preventing drowning. Clare’s local volunteers have for many years provided valuable assistance to Irish Water Safety in their work of promoting vital safety messages”: the Minister concluded.

10 YEAR SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Mary Bolton
Kathleen McMahon

15 YEAR SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Patricia Butler
Geraldine Cleary
Elaine Ensko
Geraldine Treacy
20 YEAR SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Clare McGrath

30 YEAR SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Monica Doyle
Brendan McGrath
Margaret Talty


-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900