30/04/2010 -

Cathaoirleach Commends Civil Defence

The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Gerry Murray feels that ‘the role of the Civil Defence Volunteer has become more diverse and complex over the years, and great credit is due to Director of Services Dorothy Clarke and Civil Defence Officer Marion Davis for managing this time of transition with great professionalism.’ The Cathaoirleach was speaking at the presentation of certificates to 59 Civil Defence Volunteers who had completed a training course.

- Cathaoirleach Councillor Gerry Murray and Director of Services Dorothy Clarke with some of the volunteers who received their certificates

‘The last year has offered a series of challenges to every organisation, but Civil Defence continues to thrive and progress. In the current year, you have registered 27 new volunteers, and 20 volunteers have completed the ‘responder’ course. Four volunteers have reached instructor level, and these successes reflect Sligo Civil Defence’s commitment to the highest standards of service.’

The Cathaoirleach praised the local Civil Defence Organisation. ‘They have proved to be a hugely valued presence at major events throughout our communities, from sporting to religious to musical, whatever the nature of the event, it is always enhanced by the experience and expertise of our Civil Defence personnel.’

Sligo County Council’s Director of Corporate Services Dorothy Clarke commended the commitment of the Civil Defence volunteers ‘There are so many demands on people’s time that it can be very hard to find the time to commit to nay voluntary cause, but the Civil Defence volunteers are committed and passionate about the organisation and are invariably thorough and professional in everything they do. Many people’s perception of Sligo County Council is determined by the way we interact and engage with them ‘on the ground.’ In this context our Civil Defence Volunteers play a hugely important role, as the level of service they provide reflects great credit both on the Civil Defence organisation and indeed on the Local Authority.’ Ms Clarke acknowledged the work of Civil Defence Officer Marion Davis and Asst Chief Fire Officer Martin Byrne for coordinating the training programme, remarking that ‘the people who took part in the course were inspired by your expertise and enthusiasm.’