Our next recipient tonight is Cuanlee Refuge who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
* In recognition of the more than 40 years of dedicated support that the centre has given to women and children experiencing domestic abuse.
* To recognise all the team in Cuanlee, both past and present for their unstinting support and commitment to ensuring that any woman or child that needs support, receives it and especially for the work that is done by the team in ensuring that theraphy, care and counselling is available for women and children who are traumatised due to their exposure to violence.
* To recognise every woman and child that has been supported by Cuanlee, made a call or asked for help in the 43 years since the organisation was founded in 1978.
Congratulation Cuanlee
Our next recipient tonight is Tony Philpott of Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
* In recognition of the close to 15 years of dedicated support that YSPI has been providing and for what it has given to young people from Cork and all over Ireland in that time
* To recognise the important role that YSPI has in Cork and Irish life, by providing specialist suicide awareness and prevention programmes for all the young people of Cork and Ireland who may be at risk of suicide or self harm
* For the exceptional in school programmes that YSPI has developed and delivered, from the outstanding reports made by young people who have benefitted from these programmes
* For the highly beneficial suicide awareness information and resources that YSPI makes avaiable to voluntary organisations, teachers, lecturers, social workers, members of An Garda Siochana and many other people and organisations that work with young people
* To recognise the way that YSPI adapted with Covid 19 restrictions so that the services were provided to over 7,500 secondary school students in more than 40 new schools around the country through Zoom
* To recognise that YSPI is the only youth orientated national suicide charity for young people up to 22 years of age
Congratulation Tony
Our next recipient tonight is Newmarket native Liam O’ Connor who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
* In recognition of the outstanding contribution that Liam has made to Irish music with his incredible talent as Liam O’Connor Music, for close to 30 years in the promotion of Ireland, locally and globally
* In recognition of Liam being listed in the Guinness World Records as having the fastest fingers in the world on the Accordion
* In recognition of Liam touring with Lord of the Dance Michael Flatley for two and a half years
* In recognition of Liam being the only Irish musician to be asked to perform at the prestigious Ryder Cup Team Europe / Ryder Cup USA twice
* In recognition of his recording of the official anthem for the Gaelic Athletic Association with GAA broadcasting legend Micheal O Muircheartaigh which topped the Irish charts for six weeks
* In recognition of his outstanding contribution to so many charities and organisations all over Ireland in assisting them in their fundraising efforts
* In recognition of the launch of his new single in October 2021 ‘Strong in Numbers’ with his son Oisin Oconnor and daughter Saoirse and with renowned Clannad singer Moya Brennan, her daughter Aisling and her son Paul Jarvis
Congratulations Liam
Our next recipient tonight is Mary Crilly of Sexual Violence Centre Cork who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
The award is in recognition of Mary’s outstanding work for close to 40 years with Sexual Violence Centre Cork and in the support and promotion of women and their rights over those years, and especially now when so much more work seems to be needed to be done to keep that message out there. The Pride of Cork Award 2021 is also to recognise all the team and volunteers in Sexual Violence Centre Cork for their unstinting support and commitment to ensuring that the message for the women of Cork and further afield is not only heard but heeded. The award also recognised every woman that has come through the doors, made a call or asked for help in the 38 years since Mary founded the organisation in 1983. Mary Crilly and the organisation that she leads has done, and continues to do incredible work to help women, to change attitudes and perceptions around sexual violence and to call out anyone that does not voluntarily accept that sexual violence against women in one of the most heinous crimes in our society. To Mary and all the volunteers of Sexual Violence Centre Cork, we say thank you for the incredible service you provide here in Cork and we are delighted to bestow A Pride of Cork Award on you.
Congratulations Mary
Our next recipient tonight is Gerald Kean who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Gerald Kean as we all know is a prominent Dublin based solicitor and was nominated by many people and organisations for inclusion in the awards as a means of recognising him for his contribution to people, organisations and communities in all parts of Cork city and county in the last 40 years
Gerald has been involved with numerous Cork organisations over the years and has a policy of giving of his time as a guest speaker and master of ceremonies
Gerald Kean competed in the first season of Celebrity Bainisteoir, as manager of Mayfield GAA. He later wrote a book about his experience through EchoLive.ie
Gerald grew up in Cork. His father was a member of An Garda Síochána and his uncle Liam Hamilton was the former Chief Justice of Ireland with two other uncles also members of the legal profession. His family link is to Mitchelstown and he was educated at Colaiste Chriost Ri, Cork, and then De La Salle in Wicklow, having moved there at twelve years of age. In recognising Gerald Kean with A Pride of Cork Award, it’s about saying thank you for what you do for Cork, our people, our organisations and our communities and well done for what you have achieved for every organisation that you have assisted and supported. Your passion, interest and support for all things Cork is legendary and is your trademark and please keep supporting our great people, our great organisations and our great communities so that they can achieve everything that they dream of.
Congratulations Gerald
Our next recipients are tonight The Two Norries – James Leonard and Timmy Long who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
The backstory of James and Timmy is one that really strikes a chord with people as James spent over ten years in addiction which led him to prison and hospital on many occasions. He got sober in 2013 and has spent the last number of years in education. He has achieved a Bachelor’s Degree in Youth & Community Work, a Master’s Degree in Criminology and is a Ph.D. candidate at the Department of Sociology & Criminology, University College Cork. Timmy lived a chaotic life of addiction, crime and prison but managed to get sober in 2011. He learned to read and write at the age of 32, while in prison and was diagnosed with dyslexia. Timmy is a qualified carpenter and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management.
James and Timmy are known for their podcast, The Two Norries Podcast. It is themed around addiction, recovery, crime and justice. It is relevant for anyone, anywhere. A lot of work goes into bringing this podcast to the public and they see it as being by the community for the community.
Armed with an idea for a podcast in the middle of a pandemic, the two men set to work finding out how to broadcast on YouTube. Timmy had a workshop in his back garden that they converted it into a studio, complete with toilet facilities for guests. James taught himself how to edit sound and video by watching YouTube tutorials. The result is a podcast that is as professional as it is engaging. The Two Norries is a breath of fresh air for people listening to it as it inspires and much as it educates and contributes hugely with knowledge for the informed and uninformed into the world of addiction.
James and Timmy are truly inspiring people and deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say, well done for what you have achieved for yourselves and thank you for what you are doing for so many others.
Congratulations Guys
Our next recipient tonight is Dr. Paul Colton, the Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross who was nominated by numerous people in the public call for nominations and is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons
* His night prayers for people during the Covid months, be they religious or not, and who joined with him in the spirit and intention of those prayers, and got hope, solace and inspiration from them
* In recognition of his 23 years as Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross
* In recognition of the affection that the people have for him as a person and Church leader
* In recognition of his inclusiveness for all in our society.
* In recognition of the fact that in 2020 he became the longest serving Bishop of Cork Cloyne and Ross in over 400 years since Bishop William Lyon in 1617
* In recognition of the fact that also in 2020, he became the longest serving Bishop still in office in the Anglican Churches of Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales
In recognition of his ability to speak out and be heard in Civic, Church and State matters
Bishop Paul Colton is one of those inspiring people whose contribution to people, causes and Cork is truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say thank you to him for his commitment in helping to lead, inspire and guide, Cork and her people.
Congratulations Paul
Our next recipient tonight is Karen O Mahony of The Rainbow Club who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Karen founded the Rainbow Club Cork Centre for Autism in 2015 with her husband Jon as a response to their search for services for their two sons Stephen and Sean. In just six years Karen has built an organisation that currently supports over 500 children and their families every week. Karen, Jon and all the Team work tirelessly to raise funds and build a staff of professionals and volunteers to provide crucial services in a thriving community hub. The overwhelming success of the Centre is a testament to Karen’s relentless drive and capacity to maximise limited resources. Karen is inspired every day by her boys to keep learning and keep trying. Sean who has developed his own business ’The Autistic Baker’ will also be a recipient for A Pride of Cork Award 2021. Karen understands the challenges faced by parents and carers who are trying to believe in themselves and find the courage they need to support their children. She believes that every child and family at the Centre is unique, special and deserves someone to fight for them and be there for them
The Rainbow Club Cork Centre for Autism is a professional autism service provider, supported by a large number of volunteers, with a mission to provide skills, support and a community hub for children and young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families in order to promote inclusivity, education and career opportunities leading to a fulfilled lifestyle and participation in all aspects of society.
Karen is truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can all say a well deserved thank you to her, to Jon and to everyone associated with and that supports the Rainbow Club Cork for everything they do to make a difference to everyone that benefits from their services
Congratulations Karen
Our next recipient tonight is Nicole Ryan who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Nicole is the sister of Alex Ryan, who in January 2016 went to a house party in Cork City and tried a synthetic substance believing it to be a less potent drug. He was 18 years old and had a lot of plans for his future. Alex ended up taking a huge dose of the lethal drug known as N-bomb which resulted in him being brought to hospital where he never regained consciousness and 4 days later sadly passed away. Alex changed the lives of four people by donating two of his kidneys, his liver and his heart, but Alex’s story didn’t end here. Nicole wanted what happened to her family to never need to happen to another so needlessly again, so she decided that Alex would change the world and she would be his catalyst and story teller. Nicole gave up her career as a Marine and Plant Engineer to come home and establish a new organisation called Alex’s Adventures.
Nicole has travelled throughout the country visiting schools and delivering her workshop educating and sharing how our choices can impact our lives forever. She has delivered this workshop to over 6000 students nationwide. From this life changing experience Alex’s Adventure, the drug education series was born. Nicole and her team developed a brand new programme inclusive of the whole community that aims to not only help students learn more about substance misuse but also to up skill people in the community and empower them to be able to do what she can do
Nicole is truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we the people of Cork can say a huge thank you to her for all that she does in making a difference to the lives of people and everyone she engages with, and in particular for her efforts in educating young people in this area of substance awareness.
Congratulations Nicole
Our next recipient tonight is Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery is a voluntary registered charity which relies solely on donations. It was started 21 years ago by David Linehan, whose father went missing. He was found deceased a couple of weeks later. The loss of a loved one is one of the most tragic experiences that can befall a family. However, if that loved one is never recovered, then the grieving process can be made all the more difficult on those who are left behind. When David set up the organisation, there was just one boat which was kept in a volunteer’s garden. The boat was bought through donations. Over the years, more people joined and they started expanding, buying more equipment and learning new skills. They now have three boats, two jeeps and a van, all bought through fund-raising. The organisation receives no funding from the government. They conduct land, river and sea searches. Their services are free of charge and they respond to callouts from An Garda Siochana, Irish Coast Guard and the families of missing people.
This website www.missing.ie is run directly by the organisation and provides an invaluable service to Ireland as a nation and to all families of loved ones who go missing.
The Pride of Cork Awards 2021 are all about amazing people, amazing organisations and amazing communities doing amazing things in Cork. Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery is one of those incredible organisations that has made an everlasting impact for so many people and families.
Congratulations Guys
Our next recipient tonight is Adam King who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
* Adam is 6 years old and from Killeagh and has a brittle bone condition – Osteogenesis Imperfecta. This is a rare, lifelong genetic condition of bone and connective tissue.
* His drawing of his Virtual Hug that he made for Ryan Tubridy on The Late Late Show Toy Show last year and the way that it inspired the nation, at a time of great uncertainty and difficulty for people
* His raising of over €266,000 for Cork University Hospital Charity and Temple Street Childrens Universaty Hospital Health Foundation, through the sale of special Virtual Hugs Valentine’s Day cards in SuperValu Ireland and Centra Ireland and based on the virtual hug concept that he created
* His lovely, warm personality that captured the hearts of the nation
* His book ‘A Hug For You’ which is written by his dad and is a picture book with beautiful illustrations that is inspired by true events and tells the story of one little boy with a big idea that has come straight from the heart
Adam is supported in life by his mum and dad Fiona and David and his brothers Danny and Robert and his sisters Katie and Sarah, who all believe that life is an adventure. The sharing of Adam’s adventures is all about inspiring, supporting and empowering others, especially children and families living with additional needs.
Adam King is one of those very special little boys who has an amazing story of courage, determination and passion for making other people smile. His ability to bring his Virtual Hug to people at a time of immense difficulty for everyone brightened the soul of our nation. Adam is truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can all say a huge thank you to him for everything he has done in this past year in particular and pass on to him all the Virtual Hugs in the world for a fulfilling life that we know he has ahead of him.
Congratulations Adam
Our next recipient tonight is Ray O’ Callaghan of Down Syndrome Cork and Down Syndrome Cork Field of Dreams who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
* The outstanding service that the organisation and all its team and volunteers provide to the people and families in Cork that it supports
* To recognise the fact that the organisation makes such an impact on the lives of the people that it works with
* To acknowledge the importance of The Field of Dreams to Cork and Ireland for its uniqueness and benefits to so many
* The role of Ray and that of everyone that has given of their time over the years to support and grow the Down Syndrome Cork organisation
* The retail career of Ray in being with Marks & Spencer Cork for over 30 years and for his outstanding contribution to Cork City, retail and business in Cork
* For the new role that Ray now has in leading, managing and developing The Field of Dreams
Ray is one of those people whose immense contribution is to be reflected with A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say a huge thank you to him for his outstanding contribution to so many aspects of Cork life and wish him every success as he continues to give of his skill, knowledge and expertise in the time ahead to the incredible project that is The Field of Dreams
Congratulations Ray
Our next recipient tonight is Meals on Wheels Clonakilty who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Meals on Wheels Clonakilty has been in operation for over 50 years and operates under the umbrella of Clonakilty Community Care Society. Norma O’Sullivan and Bernie Harrington are both volunteers with Meals on Wheels for just shy of 20 years and are part of a small but dedicated committee and group of volunteers who provide nourishing meals and social interaction to people in Clonakilty and surrounding areas. Norma joined first and Bernie shortly afterwards. Together they co-ordinate all aspects of the service as well as cooking and delivering too. Both have exceptional people skills and caring personalities with Bernie saying, “it’s in my nature to help people. No-one knows when they’ll need someone.”
Meals on Wheels in Clonakilty benefits from a lot of local support from individuals, hotels, restaurants and so many businesses offering donations and helping in any way they can. As well as the nourishing meals the team continue to provide and deliver twice a week, treats such as boxes of biscuits, boxes of eggs, bags of kindling and little care packs including sweets and healthy tips are now also included on a regular basis.
Norma, Bernie and all the volunteers at Meals on Wheels in Clonakilty are to be congratulated for their role in providing the people of Clonakilty with a fantastic and vital service. The Team at Meals on Wheels in Clonakilty are amazing people doing so much for their community and all of the team are truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say a huge thank you for everything that they are doing in Clonakilty
Congratulations Norma and Bernie and all in Clon
Our next recipient tonight is Irish Community Air Ambulance who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Based in North Cork it was originally established in 2008 as a ground service with volunteers to support local communities in times of emergencies. Building on their experience with the network of Volunteer Doctors and Rapid Response Vehicles, Irish Community Air Ambulance successfully launched Ireland’s first dedicated and charity funded Air Ambulance in July 2019. Irish Community Air Ambulance is an asset of the National Ambulance Service and responds to the most serious trauma and medical emergencies when tasked. It offers a vital lifesaving service, bringing advanced paramedics from the National Ambulance Service to the roadside, farm or home within minutes of an incident.
Irish Community Air Ambulance does not receive government funding and so rely heavily on the fundraising efforts of their dedicated supporters. The core mission of Irish Community Air Ambulance is to save lives.
Last year, the Irish Community Air Ambulance was tasked to 490 incidents across 13 counties and provided to support and assistance needed for a range of situations.
The Team at Irish Community Air Ambulance are amazing people doing so much for their community locally and nationally and Cork is hugely proud to have this key national service based here. All of the team are truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say a huge thank you for everything that they are doing for us as a people and as a nation.
Congratulations Everyone at Irish Community Air Ambulance
Our next recipient tonight is Maureen Forrest Hope of The Hope Foundation who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
The Pride of Cork Award for Maureen is to recognise everything that The Hope Foundation does in the name of Cork people in Kolkata and India and for all the work that The Hope Foundation has done in Ethiopia, Somalia and Swaziland but most particularly in India. The award recognises the 22 years of operations of The Hope Foundation, every person that supports the organisation, be they staff, volunteers or donors.
This Pride of Cork Award is to say thank you for what Maureen and everyone in The Hope Foundation does and for what we know you will continue doing to help others who so need your help.
Maureen Forrest is one of those incredible people whose career and life has assisted and benefited so many and in so many different ways. Maureen and her Team in The Hope Foundation are truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say a very well deserved thank you for everything that they have done to date to help others in need and for the much that The Hope Foundation will be doing for so many in the time ahead.
Congratulations Maureen
Our next recipient tonight is Karen Underwood who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
The fantastic contribution that Karen has made as a singer, writer and storyteller. Karen is from Chicago and has lived in Cork for more than two decades. She has performed in countless festivals, concerts and shows and has created ‘The Nina in Me’, an autobiographical show of Karen’s life punctuated with the music of Nina Simone.
Karen has performed at major venues throughout Ireland such as The National Concert Hall, Vicar Street, The Olympia, The Gaiety, Cork Opera House, Millennium Forum Theatre Derry, INEC and many more.
Karen is a great supporter of the charitable work of suicide prevention organisations, and for organisations that cater for people with disabilities as well as other causes. Karen has a daughter Christiana and son Erbie and Karen and her wife Mary brought four more children to their family unit over 15 years ago.
Karen Underwood is one of those people whose career and life has assisted and benefited so many people and so many organisations and in so many different ways. Bestowing A Pride of Cork Award on Karen is saying well done for everything that you do and have achieved and thank you for the magic of your voice, your music and your great contribution to Cork.
Congratulations Karen
Our next recipient tonight is Ralph Riegel who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Ralph is being recognises the fantastic contribution that he makes to Cork as the Southern Correspondent for the Irish and Sunday Independent and for the promotion that he gives to Cork, to people, to organisations and for the quality of reporting that he is known and trusted for. The award is also to recognise his great role as an author of his many books and the important role that many of them have in explaining and telling the stories of some of the most important, difficult and disturbing occurrences in Irish life. Some of those best selling books include –
* My Brother Jason’ which is the story of Limerick man Jason Corbett who was murdered by his wife, Molly Martens, and her father, ex-FBI agent Tom Martens, in the bedroom of their North Carolina home in 2015.
Ralph Riegel is one of those people whose career and life has assisted and benefited so many and in so many different ways. Bestowing A Pride of Cork Award on Ralph is saying well done for everything that he does to promote Cork, our people and our organisations and for all that the Irish Independent and Mediahuis do to assist Cork in telling its story and relaying its welcoming message to people and businesses locally and globally.
Congratulations Ralph
(unfortunately Ralph cannot be with us tonight as he is in the USA covering that very story and retrial of the Molly Martens, and her father. However, Ralph’s mother Nora is here to accept the award for)
Our next recipient tonight is Dr Chris Luke who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
* His role as an emergency medicine physician in Cork over the past twenty years until his early retirement in 2018
* His approach to always being open, clear and transparent in his media interviews that inform and educate the public
* His decision to come out of retirement like so many other medical professionals to help the fight against Covid-19
* His new book ‘A Life in Trauma’ and the very open story of his life and the fantastic success that it has been
The Pride of Cork Award 2021 being presented to Chris is also in recognition of the outstanding dedication of all Cork doctors during the pandemic and their selfless approach to treating patients and supporting families at this very difficult time
Chris Luke is one of those incredible people whose career and life have assisted and benefited so many and in so many different ways. Being Dublin by birth and Cork by so many other aspects of his career and life, he is truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say a very well deserved thank you for everything that he has contributed to date to medicine and to Cork and for the much that he has to contribute to all aspects of Cork life and Irish life in the time ahead
Congratulations Chris
Our next recipient tonight is Saint George’s Arts and Heritage Centre Mitchelstown who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
The Centre is located in the former Church of Ireland parish church in Mitchelstown. St George’s was commissioned in 1801 and was rebuilt in a neo-Gothic style in 1830 and features fine stained-glass windows and one of the oldest working organs in County Cork. The location is significant as the church with its elegant spire closes the vista at the south end of George Street as viewed from Kingston college.
The church closed in 2016 and was deconsecrated in August 2017. Saint George’s is owned by a not-for-profit company that was established by a local group that wanted to see it retained for community use in Mitchelstown and for the surrounding areas. Saint George’s is available to anyone interested in the arts, culture and heritage and is also available for other activities including civil marriages, conferences and meetings.
The Board of Directors of St George’s Arts and Heritage Centre are to be congratulated for their initiative in taking on this historic building and embarking on an incredible and sensitive restoration of it and in providing the people of Mitchelstown and the surrounding area with a fantastic venue for anyone interested in the arts, culture and heritage and including civil marriages, conferences and meetings. The Team at St George’s Arts and Heritage Centre are amazing people doing so much for their community and are truly deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say a huge thank you for everything that they are doing in Mitchelstown
Congratulations St. George’s
Our next recipient tonight is Phil Goodman of the Douglas Young At Heart who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Phil founded the group over twenty years ago to help alleviate loneliness and isolation among older people in Douglas and the surrounding area. Her activities have both entertained, engaged and enhanced the lives of all the senior citizens attached to the group, with a deluge of activities. As Phil herself once put it “Our aim is, regardless of ability that people have fun and the friendships formed make growing older a joy and a privilege”. From the beginning Phil arranged many daily activities, such as Tai Chi and Yoga, knitting, quiz shows, dancing, keep fit sessions, computer classes, cookery adventures, the list is endless.
For the past 10 years within Young @ Heart have a Care-Ring Friendly Phone call service, which is run twice weekly by trained and vetted volunteers. This service has been of immense benefit to those who receive the calls and even more so since the pandemic. Their numbers have doubled to where they now ring over 300 people each week. These calls have proven to be a life-line to many, in some cases it is the only contact they get. It is as rewarding for the volunteers, many of whom have formed firm friendships with some of the clients they call.
Phil is one of those amazing people who does so much for her community and especially for people who need a little support in their later years. Without doubt every community should have a Young @ Heart organisation modelled on the Douglas one and those of us a little younger should ensure that we play our part in our community for the many great people whose lives would benefit from such an organisation and a support group. Phil is deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say well done to her for all that she has done and continues to do in Douglas.
Congratulations Phil
Our next recipient tonight is Jess Ní Mhaoláin who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Jess is an inspiring young woman and has endured years of pain and misdiagnosis of a condition that really interfered with her quality of life. Jess was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2018 and had no other option than to have a hysterectomy at the young age of 27. To add further to her worries she had to undergo the procedure in London because endometriosis wasn’t treated with robot-assisted excision here in Ireland. On August 28, 2019, she went for a consultation with Dr Peter Barton Smith on London’s Harley Street. An ultrasound scan revealed issues that had not been spotted previously. Dr Barton Smith recommended a full hysterectomy which was a shocking step for Jess to have to take. It was discovered during the operation that she had an infection from a leaking appendix. She’d had it removed in 2015 but had been sick for the previous eight months so it had most likely been leaking for some time. Jess got through it all thanks to a tight knit group of friends and her fantastic family. Jess thankfully has been pain free since she came around from the operation and the change in her life is unbelievable.
Jess is one of those amazing people whose story is so inspiring and who never gave up until she found a solution for her problem. Jess inspires so many other people to also never give up on anything and to make sure that you always push for answers and push for a solution, no matter how hard or far that journey may take you. Jess is deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say well done to her for persevering and well done for inspiring so many other women in particular to always look for answers and to never accept something for themselves unless it is the very best for them.
Congratulations Jess
Our next recipient tonight is Stephen, Oscar and Noah Teap who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
The Pride of Cork Award is in recognition of the journey that Stephen and his sons Oscar and Noah have been on since Stephen’s beautiful wife Irene and the boys adoring Mum passed away from cervical cancer in 2017. Irene Teap was just 35 years old. Hundreds of women were affected by the Cervical Check scandal and it’s happening, handling and mismanagement by our State, laboratories and others has left so many families without loved ones and grieving from a scandal that should never have happened. Stephen Teap has been a vocal advocate for accountability and change. Protecting the memory of his wife and mother to Oscar and Noah whose life was cut short by mismanagement on a scale so great that the nation mourned and demanded action for every woman and every family affected by the scandal.
As a family today, Stephen, Oscar and Noah with the memory of Irene always with them, have rallied together and with the support of their family and friends, they had to rebuild their lives for the future. Oscar and Noah are growing up with their Dad providing them with the great love and support that their Mum would want for them. Their activities and adventures are everything that boys their age love to do and no doubt the guiding light that their Mum Irene shines over them ensures that their future will be filled with love and happiness. Stephen, Oscar and Noah Teap are a family whose lives were projected into the public arena in the most unexpected and difficult way. They have dealt with the loss of the most precious member of their family in a dignified and unified way that is inspiring to all of us looking on from the outside.
Congratulations Stephen, Oscar and Noah
Our next recipient tonight is Patrick Mulcahy who is also known as The Mindful Farmer who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Patrick Mulcahy lives in Mitchelstown which has been his home for over 40 years. He and his wife Miriam and their family have the largest deer farm in Ireland with over 1,000 deer and 300 wild boar. Patrick has a deep connection with farming and the land. Patrick is also known as ‘The Mindful Farmer’ and in their Ballinwillin House and Farm and Retreat Centre in Mitchelstown, Patrick has been practicing mindfulness from a young age and has continued to practice mindfulness and meditation throughout his life, and his philosophy for living is based on the concept of ‘the river’.
Patrick has just published a new book which is entitled ‘Hope in a time of crisis’. It was conceived at the beginning of Covid-19 as a series of blogs that Patrick wrote for his Facebook page, The Mindful Farmer. It is a collection of daily thoughts, feelings, prayers and, in particular, of the hope that was visited on him, The Mindful Farmer, his family and his team at Ballinwillin House Farm and Gardens during the pandemic. It covers the first 365 days after the first lockdown caused by Covid. Home in a time of crisis will be officially launched in May by another one of our recipients tonight, Gerald Kean who has a strong family connection with Mitchelstown. The well known musician John Spillane has written a new and very special song for the book launch that will be performed on the night of the launch. Patrick supports many farmers and communities and others in assisting them to deal with issues, crisis in their lives and many other things and The Pride of Cork Award is in recognition of his enormous contribution in helping so many people over so many years.
Congratulations Patrick
Our next recipient tonight is Sara- Jane Cromwell who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Sara-Jane is an educator, trainer, mentor and life coach on Gender Identity and Gender Dysphoria and also runs a successful coaching and mentoring business for the SME and corporate sectors. Sara-Jane was born in Dublin and was diagnosed with gender identity disorder at the age of 43 and began her transition into her new identity as Sara-Jane and has lived in Cork for many years now. After spending a number of years as a lobbyist for gender identity disorder rights in Ireland and being instrumental in helping government in framing legalisation as well as helping so many people, young and mature come to terms and adjust to the life they want for themselves, Sara-Jane focuses today on her personal and professional life with many new projects to come. In recognition of the great contribution that Sara-Jane has made to advancing knowledge and education in the area of Gender Identity and Gender Dysphoria. Sara-Jane’s new book ‘No Ordinary Life’ was recently launched and is a fascinating read and we are delighted to bestow A Pride of Cork Award on Sara-Jane tonight.
Congratulations Sara-Jane
Our next recipient tonight is Alf McCarthy who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Alf will be so well known to so many from his days with RTÉ Cork Local Radio, Corkabout and Late Date which ran from 11pm to 2am nightly on RTÉ Radio 1 and whether he was presenting in the Cork studio or Dublin, his rapport with his listeners has always been seamless. Alf is also well known for his acting skills and has starred in many different productions and in many different locations. Alf retired from RTÉ this year and then joined the Everyman Sunday Songbook team, after the passing of the late Michael Twomey, and has toured the great theatres of Ireland for the past three years bringing immense enjoyment to everyone that attends.
The Pride of Cork Awards 2021 are all about amazing people, amazing organisations and amazing communities doing amazing things in Cork and for Cork and Alf McCarthy, the Ballinlough born city boy has always held a place in the hearts of Cork people and no doubt there are many more things to follow for Alf, in broadcasting, theatre and other areas of media that his many followers will always be delighted to hear. Presenting Alf McCarthy with A Pride of Cork Award is saying thanks for all that he has done to date and an encouragement to keep doing what he does best.
Congratulations Alf
Our next recipient tonight is Catherine Ross Murphy who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Catherine from Macroom is well known to many for publishing Catherine’s Old Time Recipe’s during lockdown and for raising over €6,600 for Saint Vincent De Paul Macroom.
The next level of book sales went to support the great work of the voluntary led Irish Community Air Ambulance. Catherine is also well known for her community work in Macroom and District and for always being the person that will initiate some help or support for a local person, a local cause or something that will make her local community a better place to live
Catherine has raised well over €20,000 from her cookery book and is one of those amazing people making a difference in her local community and to organisations that need some support and is deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say thank you to her. The difference that people like Catherine make to their local community is immense and without the input, interest, commitment and dedication of ordinary people doing extraordinary things in every community, we would not have the community spirit that exists in every village and town around Ireland.
Congratulations Catherine
Our next recipient tonight is Caitriona Twomey and all in Cork Penny Dinners who are receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
This award is all about the volunteers and team at Cork Penny Dinners as a means of saying thanks to them for their dedication, their commitment and their service to what can only be described as an outstanding Cork organisation with the heart and soul of our city and county immersed in it. The award is also in recognition of the leadership of Caitriona Twomey whose whole life is dedicated to ensuring that anyone that needs a meal or some support, regardless of who they are, where they are from or what circumstances they face will be supported no matter what.
Cork Penny Dinners records date back to 1888 and the amazing role that Cork Penny Dinners has in Cork is one for everyone of us to cherish and applaud and get behind it in any way that we can so that anyone that comes to its door on Little Hanover Street in the future will experience the Miracle of Little Hanover Street that happens every day of every week, month and year with no questions asked, no judgements made and a welcome that they are renowned for. Catriona, the team and all the volunteers associated with Cork Penny Dinners are so deserving of A Pride of Cork Award so that we can say thank you to them. Their whole approach is to support others who need a helping hand, an ear to listen and a voice to feel comforted. That is what happens at Cork Penny Dinners and that is why we are all immensely proud of this great organisation and everyone associated with it.
Congratulations Caitriona and EVERYONE in Cork Penny Dinners
(Caitriona cant be with us tonight as she has gone to Ukraine with 5 truck loads of aid for the Ukranian people, but we have members of the team here tonight to collect the award)
Our next recipient tonight is Sean O’ Mahony who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
15 year old Seán O’Mahony is part of The Rainbow Club which was set up by Seán’s parents Karen O Mahony and John, which has helped Sean find his passion for baking and make the best of lockdown’s challenges and as a result Seán has established a new business for himself in May 2021 called ‘The Autistic Baker’. The Cottage Community cafe is part of the Rainbow Club that every week supports 550 autistic young people and their families in Cork. Lockdown had presented many challenges for the club but the cafe used its downtime to provide training in manual handling and HACCP qualifications to some of the Club’s members during lockdown, The Rainbow Club continued providing its services to families throughout Covid, even though the cafe had to close for certain periods. For Seán who was diagnosed with autism at the age of five, lockdown was a matter of blending this practical experience with home tuition where possible, and this allowed him to explore his interests and passions, while forging a new path for himself. The whole philosophy for Seán with the name of his business is, if someone has a problem with it being called The Autistic Baker, then that’s exactly why we need to be more open about it and make it just a word, an everyday word.
Seán is one of those people that is so deserving of A Pride of Cork Award as his whole attitude and approach to his life and life in general is so inspiring. His entrepreneurial skill in starting his own business in an area that he has a passion for is so inspiring and hopefully that inspiration will encourage many more young people with autism to seek to do what Seán has done and perhaps in time there is a role for the Cork business community to support and mentor some young people that want to do what Seán has done so successfully.
Congratulations Sean
Our next recipient tonight is Elmarie Mawe and Conor Tallon who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
The award is in recognition of the great support that Elmarie gives to the arts and culture sector in Cork through her Sunday morning programme “The Arts House” on Cork’s 96FM and C103 Cork, with her husband Conor Tallon who works with her on the programme and is a huge part of the success of the programme that they both deliver each week for Cork. Since the beginning of the pandemic Elmarie and Conor have been a tremendous support to artists who needed to keep their profiles in the public domain as the events sector closed down. The promotion of virtual events helped to keep the connection between all elements of the arts sector and the public. Elmarie is also being honoured for her way of dealing with her incredibly difficult journey with ovarian cancer which she has experienced twice, how she has publicly spoken about it and how she has inspired so many other women on that same journey and other journeys with cancer to reach out to family and friends, share their concerns and take on the journey with gusto and perseverance. The fantastic news that Elmarie got and shared with her loved ones and listeners is the news that anyone on a journey like Elmarie has been on, love to get and that great news is so worth sharing.
The Pride of Cork Awards are all about amazing people, amazing organisations and amazing communities doing amazing things in Cork and for Cork and Elmarie and Conor are two people that are so deserving of A Pride of Cork Award as they helps so many, supports so many and are an outstanding example of the goodness that we have in Cork.
Congratulations Elmarie and Conor
Our next recipient tonight is Bob Seward who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Bob is a retired army Captain who set up the Cork Academy of Music with the aim of promoting music as a tool for social inclusion for young people and those needing a new focus in their lives. Bob established the voluntary and not for profit school of music 27 years ago in 1994 to provide an education in music literacy and instrument skills for people living in the Northside of Cork city which was an economic blackspot at the time. Over the past three decades the academy has provided a music education for many thousands of people and created a pathway to work and further education for so many people who have gone on to great success in their careers as a result of the Cork Academy of Music. The academy operates from the North Monastery complex and has fostered great relationships with individuals and groups in the local community.
The retired army captain is the recipient of two United Nations peace medals, awarded in recognition of his service in the Congo in 1960 and in Cyprus in 1963. Bob Seward continues to carefully steer and guide the work of the academy and has many new plans to grow it. He will celebrate his 88th birthday this year. There is no doubt that Bob Seward and the Cork Academy of Music make an immense contribution to Cork and her people.
Congratulations Bob
Our next recipient tonight is Catherine Mahon Buckley who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Catherine Mahon-Buckley of CADA Performing Arts is being honoured tonight her more than 25 years as the creator and director of the annual Christmas panto at The Everyman and for her role as founder of CADA with her husband Ted. At CADA Performing Arts ‘every child is a star’ is a philosophy that has been at the core of what Catherine, Ted and their Team have believed in for over three decades and where their centre for performers, communicators and explorers is a place where they can make new friends, learn new skills and discover how much they can grow, but most importantly be themselves, express themselves and excel in whatever form of the arts their passion lies in.
Catherine Mahon Buckley has inspired thousands of young people, encouraged them to follow their dreams and celebrated with them on the local, national and international stage. Her creativity, her passion, her drive and her love of all things associated with the arts, performing and people is the hallmark of her continuous success in always helping people to achieve their goals and Cork celebrate it’s very best people.
Congratulations Catherine
Our next recipient tonight is a posthumous award for the late Ted Dunne, who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
This award is to honour the life and legacy of one of Cork’s true gentlemen Ted Dunne. Having passed so unexpectedly on February 9th 2021, the great void that has been left for Sheila, TJ, Lilley Dunne, the extended Dunne family and the many great friends that Ted made everywhere he went will never be filled. Ted Dunne was an outstanding businessman and DJ who gave enjoyment to people the length and breadth of this country and beyond. His ability to entertain, read a room and play for his audience was legendary and whether it was a wedding, a gala dinner, a charity function or a private party, nobody did it better than Ted Dunne and nobody will ever do it like Ted Dunne did it.
Ted Dunne is now gone to the great event centre in the sky where no doubt the entertainment that he’s giving to all our nearest and dearest who are gone before us is their great gain and our great loss. The great legacy that Ted has left his family, his friends and the Cork he loved so much will never be forgotten and always cherished and celebrated.
Forever Remembered Ted – and here to accept the award posthumously for Ted is his wife Sheila and daughter Lilley
Our next recipient tonight is Dara McGann who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Dara is currently on her transitioning journey having received her gender identity certificate and is an inspiring educator for so many people of all ages as well as parents for their children. Her decision to publicly chart her transitioning journey has been seen by many people as a hugely positive step for them. Dara has also spoken publicly about her multiple sclerosis and again this has resonated with people and helped people understand the philosophy of living with the condition. With many achievements to date in music and acting, Dara is truly inspiring and is what The Pride of Cork Awards are all about. Dara recently lost her beloved mother who was a tremendous supporter of her throughout her life and tonight she is dedicating this award to her.
Congratulations Dara
Our next recipient tonight is Mark O’ Sullivan who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Mark O Sullivan “AKA Fanta” has been involved in supporting many people and organisations by raising much needed funds to help make a difference. His recent amazing commitment has seen him raising incredible amounts of money for the needs of Ryan Murphy and Barrie Deehan, with the support of the incredible people of East Cork and further afield who never fail to support their own. Mark is also well known for his great annual talent event ‘Cork’s Got Talent’ that has supported Down Syndrome Cork over recent years.
Congratulations Mark
Our next award tonight is a posthumous award for the late Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Cork, Tim and Bina Falvey who are being honoured posthumously for the following reasons –
To honour the great contribution that Tim and Bina Falvey made to Cork and to Cork people during their lifetime. Bina Falvey passed away last December 2020 and Tim passed away in May2021. As Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Cork in 1994/95 they enjoyed a year in office that promoted Cork to the maximum at home and overseas. Their great support of so many people and so many organisations during their lifetime was typical of their approach to try and help anyone that needed a little support. Their unique personalities and approach to life was what endeared so many people to them. Their love and passion for Cork’s Northside was something they were immensely proud of throughout their lives. Bina and Tim Falvey are now gone to their eternal reward and the great legacy that they have left their family and Cork will never be forgotten and always celebrated.
Always Remembered Bina and Tim – and the family are here to collect the award tonight in honour of Bina and Tim
Our next recipient tonight is Vera Twomey who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
Vera has spent years campaigning for medicinal cannabis to help those with illnesses it can help to alleviate. Her campaign for her daughter Ava to receive the medication she needs has received great support across the country and beyond. Vera finally got the the call she had waited so long for, from Health Minister Stephen Donnelly that Bedrocan is to be funded upfront after such a long fight by Vera. It should never have taken so long, Vera should never have to have done what she had to do over all those years and so many others should not have to fight so hard for something that could and would make such a difference to their health and life. Vera is inspiring and has been there for so many, has had to do what any parent would do for their child and is truly deserving of this Pride of Cork Award.
Congratulations Vera
Our next recipient tonight is Joseph Byrne who is receiving A Pride of Cork Award for the following reasons –
* His exceptional record of assisting a range of voluntary, social, civic, charitable and not for profit organisations all over Cork.
* As a business owner of a well known hair salon, he devotes a special day of appointments to cutting the hair of the homeless so that they will feel a little special.
* He organises help for families with children returning to school and in particular for those in Edel House who could benefit from this.
* He is a tremendous supporter of Cork Penny Dinners and assists in so many ways.
* He is always looking at ideas and ways to help others and uses his business to support all these initiatives so that people can drop off things or collect things.
Our recipient is the well known Joseph Byrne who has run Joseph’s Hair Salon for 37 years and he and his husband Darren Kilkenny are exception in their civic giving for others. In addition to The Pride of Cork Award being bestowed on Joseph tonight, tomorrow night at the 15th annual Rémy Martin Cork Business Awards, Joseph and Darren will be presented with The Business Cork Civic Award of 2022 which is an award that Business Cork only bestows on one person/organisation/couple each year that has demonstrated exceptional civic spirit in Cork. This year, it is Joseph and Darren.
Congratulations Joseph and Darren and thank you for all that you do for our people and our city and county of Cork.
