THE inaugural Garda Youth Awards – DMR (Dublin Metropolitan Region) South took place last week in Tallaght Stadium.
The awards celebrated outstanding young people from diverse backgrounds between 13 and 21 years of age. They recognised the excellent work being done by local young people in schools, voluntary organisations, and youth groups throughout the communities of DMR South.
The DMR South Garda Division covers Tallaght, Crumlin, and Terenure with sub-districts of Rathfarnham, Sundrive Road, and Rathmines.
These communities are served by the Luas Red Line and Transdev (Luas operator) is committed to supporting these communities and encouraging the young people who live there, particularly those who face challenges, overcome adversity, and demonstrate leadership.
These awards celebrate the close links between Luas, the gardaí, and local communities by recognising those young people who in their own unique ways are improving local communities for all.
The Overall 2019 DMR South Award Winners were:
Individual Award: Ciara Kavanagh, Volunteer at St Mark’s Youth Club, ‘The Jokers’, Fettercairn, Tallaght.
Group Award: Frances Kennedy and Jenna Sullivan, Volunteer at Cheeverstown House, Templeogue, Dublin 6W.
Special Achievement Award: Erika Kiernan, past pupil of Loreto College, Crumlin, Dublin 12.
Community Safety Award: Crumlin Cadets, Order of Malta–Crumlin, Dublin 12.
On the night Chief Superintendent Kevin Gralton said: “All of the young people and groups nominated are winners. Getting involved and contributing to your community by helping others or demonstrating leadership in a local initiative benefits everyone.
“Skills are developed, friendships are formed, and voluntary and community groups are sustained. The work being done by these outstanding young people helps to keep communities together and improves the overall quality of life for everyone.”
Superintendent Gralton added: “The nominees are exceptional, and the competition was very high. The Garda DMR South division is enriched by your voluntary contributions and impressive leadership. On behalf of An Garda Síochána – thank you.”
Seamus Egan, MD, Transdev Dublin Light Rail Limited, added: “Luas links communities and people together. Transporting over 110,000 people daily, we know the essential part a transport system plays in community life. We value the work and support of An Garda Síochána whom we work with every day.
“We are proud to support young people and community groups on the Red and Green Luas Lines. It’s inspiring to see young people develop themselves and their communities. We are a mobility company, and we are proud to support their personal development.”