A Special Visit to Aras an Uachtarain
On Thursday 26th September the Senior Team and their trainer (also Deputy Area Director of Units) Imelda O’Connor had the pleasure of visiting Aras an Uachtarain to be presented with the President’s Trophy by President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins. This was in light of their winning the All Ireland Senior Competition in 2011.
The team consisted of Aileen Murphy (leader), Geraldine Cronin, Deirdre Brosnan, Mary Keogh, Sarah Vaughan and Eileen Cronin (in absentia).  As Orla Murphy was on the 2013 Irish Team she also attended the presentation.
The reception commenced at 5.30pm with all being greeted by the President and Mrs Higgins, including a photo.
Following this the President gave an encouraging and inspiring speech on the work of the Irish Red Cross and commended all volunteers presented. The President spoke of his experiences and knowledge of the Red Cross and of the “valuable and crucial contribution” that the Irish Red Cross makes both in Ireland and through the international network, remarking that “the Red Cross has entered the fabric of our Society.” The speech also included the unique history of the Trophy itself, which was commissioned by past President Douglas Hyde at the turn of the previous century.
In closing, President Higgins thanked the volunteers present at the Aras for their “commitment to society” and asked them to “Pass on his thanks to the thousands of other Irish Red Cross volunteers around the country.”
After which the 2011 Irish team were presented with the infamous trophy (along with the 2010, 2012 and 2013 winners).
Following the presentation, and more photographs, there was a reception for the visitors in the state banqueting room where the President, Mrs Higgins and fellow members mingled and enjoyed the President’s hospitality. It was a very special and unique experience, which we will always remember.


For more information and pictures see here http://www.redcross.ie/news/presidential-praise/







All Ireland Competitions 2013


The competitions were held in Dublin Borough on 5 October 2013. The venue was the beautiful grounds of Malahide Castle.
Ballinora/Ballincollig Branch had:-
1.  Eileen Kelleher as the Individual Novice candidate.

The Cadet team were:-
2.  Amy Brennan leader, Laura Cahill, Alice Farrell and Aoife Fitton.
3. Gemma Dineen was the Cadet Individual candidate.

Adjudicator:- Imelda O’ Connor
Station Manager:- Geraldine Cronin

Their tasks were challenging and there was a lot of strong competition on the day.
All of our girls performed extremely well and should be very proud of themselves.
The Cadet Team were awarded 3rd place. CONGRATULATIONS AND WELL DONE GIRLS.

Following a meal in the Hilton Hotel, Malahide a disco was held until midnight.
Very enjoyable weekend had by all.

Eddie thank you for transporting us there and back.