2024 Ardee Municipal District Awards take place

The 2024 Ardee Municipal District Civic Awards took place on Wednesday 29th January in Ardee Courthouse.

The awards, which are set by legislation under Section 74 of the Local Government Act 2001, as a reserved function, and reinforced by the Local Government Reform Act, 2014, Section 131 A(1)(b), allow Municipal Districts to hold and grant Municipal Awards annually to local individuals or groups. 

Following a nomination and consideration process by the six elected members of Ardee Municipal District, 11 awards were granted to inspirational persons or groups who achieved outstanding goals, demonstrated unwavering service to the community or represented the community nationally or internationally.

The event, which was compered by Susan Deery, Administrative Officer, Louth County Council, opened with Cllr John Sheridan, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District, commenting on the depth and variety of those nominated and praising each winner on how they individually, or collectively, enhanced the greater community.

Cllr John Sheridan, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District, said: “These awards will be forever recorded in the roll of Civic Honours retained by Louth County Council. As councillors, we can see the impact that the 11 nominees have had on our communities in Ardee and Mid-Louth for many years and the positive impact and success of their work will be felt and remembered for many years to come.”

Cllr Sheridan’s words were echoed by David Conway, Louth County Council Chief Executive, who was attending his first public event since assuming the role in mid-January. 

“These awards are formal recognition for the work and voluntary service that the nominees carry out in love of their respective communities,” said Mr Conway. “One of the values that Louth County Council has incorporated into our Corporate Plan 2024-2029 is that we are citizen-centric, and this ceremony epitomises that.

“I’ve always believed that voluntary work is the heartbeat of a community and when you look at the various winners, it shows the breadth of work that is being done in Ardee and Mid-Louth, and I compliment all 11 nominees for the spirit and dedication they have shown.”

^{Above: Cllr John Sheridan, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District, Cllr Jim Tenanty, Cllr Pearse McGeough, Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cllr Bernie Conlon, Cllr Rachel Kerley, David Conway, Louth County Council Chief Executive, and the 2024 Ardee Municipal District award winners}

Those nominated were called forward and presented with their certificates by Cllr John Sheridan, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District.

2024 Ardee Municipal District Civic Award winners

• Eimear Byrne – In recognition of her exceptional talent and dedication to St Mochtas GFC and Louth GAA, which culminated in a TG4 Junior Team of the Year award in 2024.
• Grace Conway Dowling – In recognition of her many boxing achievements, which include eight Irish titles, two European Championship silver medals and representing Ireland at the World Championships.
• Hugh Callaghan - In recognition of his many years of voluntary service in Dunleer, most notably his service to Dunleer Tidy Towns which has lasted more than 40 years.
• Liam Hand - In recognition of his devotion to caring for the elderly and people with physical and intellectual disabilities in the Mid-Louth Area as the manager of Ardee Daycare Centre.
• St Joseph’s Hospital Staff – In recognition of the fantastic work they carry out daily, caring for their patients with respect, love, and affection. 
• Castlebellingham and Kilsaran Festive Lights Committee – In recognition of their tireless work and dedication in bringing the magic of the festive season to life in their local community.
• The Louth Abbey Vintage Club – In recognition of their commitment to community events, charity fundraising, and raising awareness of vintage machinery. 
• Sinead Cowley – In recognition of her voluntary service as the parish secretary of Ardee and Collon Catholic Parish, where she was integral to the recent celebrations of the 50th-anniversary ceremony and concert for Ardee Church. 
• Ardee Active Retirement Group – In recognition of their outstanding contribution and commitment to the promotion of physical health, mental wellbeing, social engagement and enriching the lives of their participants. 
• June McGreal – In recognition of her dedication and commitment to people with disabilities at Drumcar, St Mary’s and the surrounding area, and those who may require assistance in times of need. 
• Craig Lennon - In recognition of his exceptional talent and dedication to St Mochtas GFC and Louth GAA, which culminated in a PwC Football All-Star Award in 2024. 

Light refreshments were served after the event, allowing the award winners time to catch up with other recipients and celebrate with their families and friends.