The Golden Jubilee of the foundation of Thurles Credit Union was celebrated at a function in the Anner Hotel on recently. Honouring this event, Mr Jimmy Johnstone, president of the Irish League of Credit Unions, paid tribute to all founding members in Thurles, whose vision identified the need for financial cooperation in some very difficult times back in the 50’s and early 60’s. People then helped themselves, and he commended all those involved fifty years later, for staying true to those founding principles.
Of course this year, adding to the enjoyment of this Golden Jubilee, were the eagerly awaited results, announcing the Thurles 2011 “People of the Year Awards.” This local gala event acknowledges annually the unsung heroes of our community and was first introduced and continues to be financed by Thurles Credit Union.
Recipients 2011 Thurles Credit Union Awards
Winners of the 2011 Thurles Credit Union Awards
Good Neighbour Award
Ms Marie Carey, Bohernanave, Thurles.
Marie is the first recipient of our Good Neighbour Award and has been nominated by the Mayor of Thurles, Councillor John Kennedy. She has shown outstanding care and commitment to her friend and neighbour during a terminal illness. She provided security and peace of mind for her friend by arranging a monitor between their two houses so that she could be on call 24/7 and worked with doctors, nurses and home care helpers while also attending to her own family life. She assisted her friend to die with dignity in the comfort of her own home.
Community Award
Sr. Clement, Stannix House, Thurles.
Sr. Clement has been nominated by Thurles Lions Club and receives her Award for work done away above and beyond the call of duty in her position as matron for over 20 years and secretary of management committee during the same period. As well as attending to the needs of the residents in her capacity as an excellent nurse, Sr. Clement displayed the same care for their living conditions and for the surrounds and the pristine conditions in which the residents live is testament to her dedication and care. She is also a contact facilitator for Rainbow Child Bereavement organisation.
Community Award
Mr Bart Howard, Two Mile Borris, Thurles.
Bart is a Community Garda and has been nominated by Thurles Victim Support, not for being the very professional police officer which he is, but for a huge voluntary involvement in community activities outside of working hours, during his years in the Thurles area. He participates in Positive Ageing group and with Tipperary Regional Youth Service, has been secretary of a Community Employment Project for a number of years and is regularly involved in raising funds for a range of good causes via the local North Tipperary Vintage Club. He is described as never having refused a call for assistance, either on or off duty.
Community Award
Mr Pierce Murphy, Cabra, Thurles
Pierce has been nominated by the priests of the parish for a range of activities including years of voluntary dedication to the Order of Malta and to Thurles Musical Society. He has been a long-time volunteer as a helper with the sick on pilgrimages to Lourdes, playing a leading role in their care and comfort. He is also active in parish work as minister of the Eucharist, and has been a team leader for a number of years in the construction of the Christmas crib in Thurles Cathedral.
Youth Award
Master Tommy Barrett, Moyne Road.
Despite his young age, Tommy has already developed a keen sense of civic duty and pride in his neighbourhood. He has been nominated by Brídín O’Gorman on behalf of the residents and senior citizens of Moyne Road, who admire and are grateful for his respect and care for the elderly. Tommy undertakes the cleaning of rubbish and debris in the area, often before breakfast and school, helps with neighbours’ bins, walks the dogs for those who cannot do so themselves, does the shopping when required and generally helps out with any tasks where he can contribute. And all of this is done with a smile on his face.
Our heartiest congratulations go to all award recipients.
Photo courtesy of G.Willoughby.
Here we see the real wealth of this country. Congrats to Thurles Credit Union and to all who received awards.