County Sligo Civil Defence

Sligo Civil Defence continues to ‘Meet the challenges of a changing world’ 
2004 was a particularly busy and eventful year for the organisation, the highlight being the hosting of the National Exercise in April. This was a major undertaking, with over 250 volunteers in attendance, but the event was administered with the efficiency and professionalism we have come to expect of Civil Defence. Minister for Defence Michael Smith, TD, attended the Exercise, and committed funding €50,000 towards the provision of a garage for the Civil Defence vehicles.

Sligo Civil Defence were involved in over fifty events throughout the year, and have provided first aid and ambulance cover at many important sporting and community events throughout the county.    

In an age when there are so many demands on our time, it can be difficult to entice people to become involved in a new voluntary activity. However the commencement of training classes in October saw twenty five new volunteers registered. In addition to learning many valuable skills and techniques, the new volunteers can also make many new friends in the organisation.

The hosting of our annual exercise in October was followed by a special presentation tour long serving members. Ten and twenty year long service medals were presented by the Cathaoirleach Councillor Margaret Gormley and the Assistant Director General of Civil Defence, Bill Smith. Special presentations were made to long serving Instructor, Jim Clerkin, and to another Stalwart of Civil Defence, Gerry Shryane, who retired after 33 years of service.

In December forty volunteers who assisted at the 2003 Special Olympics were presented with a specially commissioned medal, a fitting reward for volunteers who give so generously of their time and energy in service to their community.
 

- Illustration of volunteer movement in the organisation 2001-2004

- Illustration of events and volunteers attendance 2001-2004