Ballymun priest gets human rights prize

BALLYMUN priest, Fr Peter McVerry, was presented with the French Human Rights Prize last week in recognition of his work to alleviate poverty and fight homelessness in Ireland.

Fr McVerry received the award from French Ambassador to Ireland, Jean-Pierre Thébault.

“For his commitment in helping those most in need, Peter McVerry embodies the values of equality, fraternity and social justice defended in the 1789 French Declaration of Human Rights and the Citizen,

? said Ambassador Thébault.

Fr McVerry said he saw the award as more than just recognition of himself.

“I see it really as an award to acknowledge the growing issue of homelessness in Ireland,

? he explained.

“At a time when so many people are on the verge of homelessness it’s important that we continue to recognise their needs and their rights.

Pat Doyle, who is CEO of Peter McVerry Trust, paid tribute to the tireless campaigner who continues to inspire the work of the charity which the priest founded in 1983.

“Peter is a very worthy recipient of this award,

? he said.