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/
