Drogheda school teacher honoured with President's Award
Donal O'Boyle, a teacher at St Oliver's Community College in Drogheda was honoured at a special Gaisce – The President’s Award ceremony, in recognition of 34 President’s Award Leaders from all over Ireland who have supported young people to achieve their potential.
The Award Ceremony took place at Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park, Dublin.
Gaisce’s Civic Merit Award honours President’s Award Leaders (PALs) like Donal, who have supported young people to take part in the Gaisce programme for more than five years. Retiring PALs and PALs who mentored a Gold Awardee were also celebrated and commended for supporting and encouraging young people on their Gaisce journey.
The ceremony was presented by comedian, writer and podcaster Julie Jay and the guest speaker at the event was author and world-renowned immunologist and Professor of Biochemistry Professor Luke O’Neill.
Avril Ryan, Acting CEO of Gaisce – The President’s Award said, “Gaisce are delighted to celebrate the work of our President’s Award Leaders. Their dedication to the principles and outcomes of the Gaisce programme ensures the continued value society places upon the personal development and wellbeing of young people and their achievements, whilst also promoting Gaisce’s vision that young people have every opportunity to dream big and fulfil their potential.
“For many young people a Gaisce Award is often the first time they receive any recognition for their achievements. A Gaisce Award recognises the skills, volunteering, leadership, and other qualities of Gaisce participants, talents that may never have been discovered and honed without their participation in this unique and holistic non-formal education Award”.
A special message from the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins was read by Chair of Gaisce – The President’s Award, John Cunningham, “The leadership of all of you has undoubtedly played a significant role in the success of the programme and the growth and development of the participants. The dedication and hard work that goes into the planning and execution of the Gaisce journey is given evidence in the distinguished achievements of the participants. It is with great pleasure and a sense of gratitude that I send my warmest congratulations and my sincere appreciation for your valued contribution to Gaisce.”
Gaisce – The President’s Award is a personal development programme for young people which enhances confidence and wellbeing through participation in personal, physical, community and team challenges.
Since its inception in 1985 over 300,000 young Irish people have completed a Gaisce Award, including former Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh and internationally renowned Irish actor Robert Sheehan.
*** In our print edition this week, we incorrectly referred to Mr O'Boyle as a teacher in St Oliver's Post Primary School, Oldcastle. We apologise for the error and any upset caused.