Minister applauds frontline services on National Services Day

Minister McEntee commends the dedication and professionalism of frontline services, as she marks National Services Day 2020

THE Minister for Justice and Equality Helen McEntee has commended the dedication and professionalism of frontline services on National Services Day, September 5.

Minister McEntee said: “As Minister for Justice, it is my deep privilege to work closely with some of our frontline emergency services, namely An Garda Síochána and the staff of the Irish Prison Service.

“I have seen at first hand their tremendous professionalism and dedication, in what can be very challenging circumstances. I am delighted to have the opportunity to publicly thank them and all our emergency services for the quiet heroism of their chosen career.”

In 2018, the Government declared the first Saturday in September as National Services Day. This is an annual day to honour frontline and emergency workers including first responders of all types. In previous years, the event was marked by a major parade through Dublin city as well as other forms of public engagement. This year, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, no parade is taking place.

Minister McEntee said: “The demands placed on our emergency workers have perhaps never been greater than this year, as we live through the Covid-19 pandemic. This has been a frightening and uncertain time for all of us. But our emergency workers – despite any private fears they may have had for themselves or their loved ones – have continued to fully perform their duties and have indeed increased their efforts to support the public. We owe them, and their families, a deep debt of gratitude for their outstanding professionalism, dedication and care.”