Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin TD presented long service medals to over 100 members of Civil Defence from across the country in a national ceremony in Trinity College Dublin. The medals were awarded for 30, 40, 50 and even 60 years of service in the Civil Defence.
Speaking at the event, the Tánaiste said:
” I am delighted to formally honour the long and distinguished years of service of these Civil Defence members with the award of long service medals. As we see on a constant basis, the Civil Defence plays an essential role in so many aspects of daily life, whether responding to search and rescue, flooding or other events.
“It is because of this vital role that the Government is committed to continuing its investment in the modernisation of the Civil Defence to ensure that this invaluable organisation continues to grow and fulfil its crucial role in Irish society.”
In all, there are 10 recipients receiving 60 year medals today; 1 each from Cavan, Limerick and Wicklow, 2 from Louth and 5 from Dublin. These Volunteers joined in the 1960s, when younger recruits under the age of 18 were still allowed.
The recipients, from across the country, continue to contribute to the Civil Defence in a variety of ways. In addition to supporting the primary response agencies such as An Garda Síochána, the Fire Service and the HSE, Civil Defence also support their local communities through medical cover and other means for charity and other local events.
Last weekend Wicklow Civil Defence worked with An Garda Síochána, deploying 12 Volunteers and 5 SUVs over two days to rescue stranded motorists in the snow-covered Wicklow Mountains. In addition, Civil Defence Units are frequently mobilised in support of missing persons, with about 10 searches across the State in February alone.
The Tánaiste, also acknowledged that Civil Defence volunteers focussed on the value of their service both to the State and their local communities and noted the camaraderie and community spirit of the Civil Defence.
