President Mary McAleese Celebrated the volunteers serving Oughterard, on April 1st 2011.The president attended a showcase reception in the Community Hall where over thirty seven voluntary groups and associations were represented
In what was a momentous occasion, the community of Oughterard welcomed President Mary McAleese to the village
The highly anticipated event was part of 2011 being designated ‘The Year of the Volunteer’ by the European Union, of which President McAleese is patron. During her time in the village President McAleese met with the dedicated volunteers at the special reception.
President McAleese was welcomed to the village by a delightful musical display performed by children from the local national and secondary schools.
The dedicated voluntary groups in Oughterard range from sporting, and cultural to family/community services and include major projects such as the restoration of the courthouse, and the development of extensive soccer facilities and rugby grounds, while other groups are quietly providing essential services to the community, for example Meals on Wheels and St Vincent de Paul.
On the day, Deidre Forde, spokesperson for the event stated; “Needless to say, the community of Oughterard is extremely excited about the President’s visit and appreciates the time she is taking to view first hand the wonderful efforts by local voluntary workers, particularly in her last year of office. No doubt it will be a truly memorable and honourable occasion for all involved but in particular the worthy volunteers who give their time so freely for the community of Oughterard,” said Deidre Forde, spokesperson for the event.
