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New offices are a big plus for Clonakilty's Red Cross branch

September 25th, 2016 11:50 AM

By Southern Star Team

Pat Carey, Irish Red Cross National chairman, unveiling the plaque at the offical opening of IRC Clonakilty new premises. (Photo: Jonathan Tyner)

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The official opening of the new premises of the Clonakilty branch of the Irish Red Cross at Clogheen Industrial Estate took place recently.

THE official opening of the new premises of the Clonakilty branch of the Irish Red Cross at Clogheen Industrial Estate took place recently.

It included the presentation of certificates to the branch’s cadets group following their practical first-aid course, as well as the launching of a newly-revamped ambulance. Present at the opening were Cllr Christopher O’Sullivan on behalf of the county mayor, the Mayor of Clonakilty Anthony McDermott, the three TDs for Cork South-West – Jim Daly, Margaret Murphy O’Mahony and Michael Collins – and Pat Carey, national chairperson, and other members of the national committee.

Clonakilty branch chairperson Pádraig O’Reilly thanked everyone for attending the official opening as well as reflecting on his time in the Red Cross and how the local branch has grown over the years. 

‘The branch is lucky to exist in a community such as the town of Clonakilty,’ he said, noting that many businesses and groups have donated much-needed funds to the branch over the years. This has ensured that the branch has kept two vehicles on the road and now it is fortunate to have a branch premises.

Pádraig reflected on members who had passed away and the contribution that they had given to the branch’s success and said that these people must never be forgotten and that the members must cherish the moments that they had with them.

 The official cutting of the ribbon was done by Eleanor O’Mahony, wife of the late John O’Mahony, who was branch chairperson at the time of his death, and by Mary Burke, mother of the late Chloe Burke, who was health and social care officer when she passed away. Pat Carey unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion.

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