Proud day for Meath Civil Defence volunteers as long service medals presented in newly restored HQ

Meath Civil Defence Headquarters has been officially been reopened following the devastating fire that occurred at the facility last December.

The milestone event was attended by An Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr Sarah Reilly, Minister for Defence Helen McEntee TD, Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence Thomas Byrne TD, Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe, members and volunteers of Meath Civil Defence, Elected Members, Council staff and invited guests.

Significant damage was caused to the vehicle bay of the building during the fire that occurred on 21st December 2026. Despite this, operational services continued, ensuring that communities across County Meath remained supported whenever and wherever assistance was required.

Saturday’s event also included the presentation of 75 Years of Civil Defence Commemorative Medals, as well as the presentation of 15 Long Service Medals recognising the dedication and commitment of volunteers who have given many years of service to their communities.

Speaking at the event, An Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr Sarah Reilly said: “I am delighted to be here today to celebrate the reopening of this outstanding facility but also to recognise the ongoing work of our Civil Defence volunteers. The fire in December 2025 was a major setback, but the volunteers and staff in the Meath Civil Defence once again showed their remarkable resilience and professionalism by continuing to provide vital services in the communities they serve so well.”

Minister for Defence Helen McEntee, TD, said: “I am delighted to officially reopen the Meath Civil Defence Headquarters and to recognise the extraordinary commitment of Civil Defence volunteers throughout what has been a long and difficult year. Today is also an opportunity to pay tribute to everyone whose hard work has brought us to this point. It has been a true team and community effort, and it is fitting that we celebrate and acknowledge the contribution of Civil Defence members—past, present and future.”

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence Thomas Byrne, TD, said: “I strongly welcome the restoration of Meath Civil Defence headquarters. It is a huge credit to Meath Civil Defence, including their volunteers, that they maintained a comprehensive service to the people of Meath while they recovered from the fire that impacted the headquarters.

“I want to thank Meath Civil Defence for their incredible commitment to our communities. I also want to commend Meath County Council for their support for local Civil Defence and recognising the value of the role they play in our communities.”

Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said: “Meath Civil Defence provides an invaluable service to the people of this county. Whether supporting major events, assisting emergency services, responding during adverse weather events or helping communities during times of crisis, their contribution remains immeasurable.”

Among the volunteers in attendance were husband and wife, Sean and Aideen O'Connell from Trim who have 21 years service with Meath Civil Defence between them.

"I'm in 11 years now," says Sean with Aideen proudly displaying her 10 year service medal.

The couple are both involved in a lot of the specialist area within Meath Civil Defence with Sean on drone operations and logistics while Aideen is in welfare and catering.

"I know it's a bit of cliche," says Sean, "but it's nice to be able to give back to community when people are in need or people need help it's great to be able to do that and you know you have a crew there behind you that are fully trained.

"There's great support in the organisation and it's well worth getting involved in," concludes Sean.

Colin Coldrick was the sole recipient on the day of a 30 year service medal and says he's thoroughly enjoyed his three decades of service so far with Meath Civil Defence.

"I'm delighted, it's a long time alright, but I've enjoyed it.

"The years don't belong going around. I joined when I was 16. My older brother was actually the unit leader in Navan at the time, so I followed in his footsteps and just stuck at it then year after year.

“It’s about helping people that can't help themselves, like when somebody goes missing in the river and the families that are left behind try and bring somebody back to them is what drives me on to stay in it. It's very rewarding.”

LONG SERVICE MEDAL RECIPIENTS