A SPECIAL event was held recently to honour a local man’s service to St Joseph’s Intellectual Disability Service in Portrane.
The presentation was made to unsung hero Gerry McDonald at the Knockamann Resource Centre.
Over many years with the association, including being secretary, Gerry has always been at the forefront of campaigns led by former chairperson Annie Ryan who is now retired.
His achievements include being involved in the opening of Knockamann in 2010; a visit by President Mary McAleese to Knockamann in 2011; the appointment of a full multi-disciplinary team to St Joseph’s; and the consultation process to have the Health Information Quality Authority (HIQA) inspect residential centres for people with an intellectual disability.
While campaigning on issues affecting residents continues, it could not be done without the invaluable support of Gerry who is still very much part of the committee.
At the event Gerry was also praised for his work with the Bridge Club in Portrane which has been a constant support to the residents of St Joseph’s.
