Gerry Cody.......22

Working together for the common good

As Covid restrictions begin to ease Mayor Andrew McGuinness honoured Katherine Peacock and the Eastern Environs De brillator group with Mayoral recognition for their work in providing life saving equipment in Kilkenny city.

Presenting the awards Mayor McGuinness noted that the project was a cross community endeavour between Eastern Environs, Katherine Peacock, the Local Authority, Gardai, Army, O’ Loughlin Gaels, St John’s Church, Business Owners and supportive local communities.

Concluding, the Mayor declared that “the de brillator project is a shining example of people working together for the common good, that strengthens bonds and helps to distinguish Kilkenny society”. Accepting the civic honour, O’Loughlin Gaels stalwart Mick Dooley thanked the Mayor and

Katherine Peacock, Kathleen Meagher, Pat Coonan, Mayor Andrew McGuinness, Mick Dooley, Fr Dan Carroll, Margaret Lanigan, Larry Murphy, Frank Cody Larry Murphy and Mick Dooley

Mayor Andrew McGuinness presents the Civic Award to Mick Dooley Of the Eastern Environs Defibrillator group

said it was a privilege to receive the award on behalf of the EE De b Group and the people of St. John’s parish. He acknowledged the invaluable support of Katherine Peacock whose help and guidance were integral to the success of the project. While praising the commitment of his colleagues he had a special word of thanks for all who supported the initiative nancially.

He also thanked the interagency emergency support groups Civil Defence, Order of Malta and the Irish Red Cross for their continued involvement.

In an impromptu address Katherine Peacock said she was surprised and humbled by the award but that she was honoured to be part of such a wonderful community initiative. Katherine praised those who host the de brillators: St John’s Church, Freshco Dublin Road, John McGuinness Constituency O ce, Orchard House Bar & Restaurant and James Stephens Army Barracks. She highlighted the need for vigilance in the care & maintenance of the de brillators and emphasised the importance of training.

She was delighted to announce that over ninety local people have signed up for the forthcoming interagency ‘Certi ed Community First Responders’ training course. kilkennycivildefence@gmail.com

Concluding the ceremony Mayor McGuinness invited his guests to join him for jovial interactions and light refreshments in the Mayor’s Parlour.

Top: Mayor McGuinness, Anne Nolan, Fr Dan Carroll and Frank Cody attending City Hall

Above le : Eastern Environs Finance Team