Castlebar Social Services lauded for its 'extraordinary work' since 1973

Castlebar Social Services has been lauded for its exceptional contribution to the community since its foundation in 1973.

Warm tributes are being paid to the organisation on the occasion of its 50th anniversary today.

Councillor Al McDonnell, cathaoirleach, Castlebar Municipal District, said nobody could fully measure the valuable and essential work it is carrying out on a daily and weekly basis.

"Needless to say, it is nothing short of extraordinary," he stated.

Councillor McDonnell said the Covid-19 pandemic proved one important facet to the Irish public. . ."We cannot deal with isolation."

He praised the commitment and dedication of 60 volunteers who delivered meals on wheels to over 100 people in Castlebar and surrounding areas every day of the year.

"It is not just about providing a meal to people who may not be in a position to prepare one for themselves.

"It is about the social contact, keeping in touch, and the knowing that you are coming every day. That's so important."

He singled out the contribution of the late PJ Nally for his single-mindedness and drive in modernising the centre at Castle Street.

Speaking at the organisation's 50th anniversary celebrations, Deputy Alan Dillon paid tribute to everybody involved in the success and growth since its foundation.

"This is a very noble institution and you can sense its caring and resilient nature every time you walk through the front door.

"It's workers and volunteers are there to help people in so many ways and Castlebar is so fortunate to have such a wonderful organisation."

Deputy Michael Ring praised Castlebar Social Services for its outstanding vision and ambition.

"The staff and volunteers cannot be praised highly enough for their dedication and unselfishness."

Tracey Noone, co-ordinator, National Meals on Wheels, also joined in paying tribute to Castlebar Social Services and its many volunteers.

Denis Gallagher, chairman, said it was an occasion for saying thanks to everyone who played a role in the organisation over the past 50 years.

He said it started out as a senior citizens centre at the former boxing club on the Mall and its growth really took off when the Sisters of Mercy donated the building at Castle Street car park to them in 2004, which has since being transformed into an ultra-modern centre.

Mr. Gallagher thanked Noreen Durkan for charting the history of the organisation ahead of the anniversary.

Long-service presentations were made to Noreen Durkan (50 years) and Bernard Freyne (30 years) by Deirdre Waldron, manager, Castlebar Social Services, on the occasion of the silver jubilee.