The inaugural Garda Youth Awards – DMR South proudly supported by Transdev, operator of Luas, celebrated the outstanding achievements of young people last night Thursday, February 28th, 2019 in Tallaght Stadium.
The awards recognised young people from diverse backgrounds between 13 and 21 years of age, and the excellent work being done by local young people in schools, voluntary organisations, and youth groups throughout the communities of DMR South. (The DMR South Garda Division covers Tallaght, Crumlin, and Terenure with sub-districts of Rathfarnham, Sundrive Road, and Rathmines.)
The communities represented by the outstanding 43 recognised young people and groups of young people are served by Luas, and Transdev, its operator is committed to supporting these communities and encouraging the young people who live there, particularly those who face challenges, overcome adversity, and demonstrate leadership.
These awards celebrate the close links between Luas, the Gardaí, and the communities they serve, recognising those young people who in their own unique ways are improving local communities for all.
2019 Overall Award Winners:
Individual Award: Ciara Kavanagh, JR Youth Leader at St. Mark’s Youth Club, “The Jokers”, Fettercairn, Tallaght, Dublin 24.
Group Award: Frances Kennedy & Jenna O’Sullivan, Volunteers in dance class for children with intellectual disabilities at Cheeverstown House, Templeogue, Dublin 6W.
Special Achievement Award: Erica Kiernan, Overcoming significant personal circumstances to join Order of Malta, volunteer at Capuchin Day Centre and exceptional role model to peers on the importance of individuality, past pupil of Loreto College, Crumlin, Dublin 12.
Community Safety Award: Crumlin Cadets, Order of Malta first-aid and community training,
helping the elderly, sick, and fundraising for various charities, Crumlin, Dublin 12.
Chief Superintendent Kevin Gralton commented:
“All of the young people and groups nominated are winners. Getting involved and contributing to your community by helping others or demonstrating leadership in a local initiative benefits everyone – skills are developed, friendships are formed, and voluntary and community groups are sustained. The work being done by these outstanding young people helps to keep communities together and improves the overall quality of life for everyone.”
“The nominees are exceptional, and the competition was very high. The Garda DMR South division is enriched by your voluntary contributions and impressive leadership. On behalf of An Garda Síochána- thank you.”
Seamus Egan, MD, Transdev Dublin Light Rail Limited commented:
“Luas links communities and people together. Transporting over 110,000 people daily, we know the essential part a transport system plays in community life. We value the work and support of An Garda Síochána whom we work with every day.”
“We are proud to support young people and community groups on the Red and Green Luas Lines. It’s inspiring to see young people develop themselves and their communities. We are a mobility company, and we are proud to support their personal development and social mobility.”
