REMARKS BY PRESIDENT MARY MCALEESE ON THE OCCASION OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE PRESIDENT’S PRIZE
REMARKS BY PRESIDENT MARY MCALEESE ON THE OCCASION OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE PRESIDENT’S PRIZE TO THE IRISH RED CROSS SOCIETY
Tá áthas ar leith orm fáiltiú romhaimh ansoe inniu. Lá tábhachtach é I gcónaí an Lá Chomairtais na Croise Deirge - agus iarraim anois ort, a Chathaoirligh do oráid bhliantúil a thabhairt.
After the Chairman’s address
A Chathaoirligh,
I want to thank you most sincerely for speaking to us today on the occasion of the Red Cross Awards – and for outlining the work of the Irish Red Cross Society since its inception 59 years ago – during which time it has made an enormous contribution to Irish and international society – from its early days in the dark period of the Second World War – through its involvement in international situations – where the International Red Cross seeks to fulfil its humanitarian mission – and at times in the most difficult and hostile conditions.
Today the International Red Cross has relief missions in many countries throughout the world – dealing with natural calamities, and with the plight of those who are caught up in conflict situations – situations which are a reflection of the troubled world that we still live in – so many years after the war that precipitated the establishment of the Irish Red Cross. The commitment of Irish people to the Red Cross since its inception - where, as you say, tens of thousands of volunteer men and women have generously and freely devoted their time and energy to the service of others – has been exemplary – and has been mirrored by the many other Irish people who are willing to help those in need – particularly in the developing countries.
Indeed, the number of Irish aid workers is far out of proportion to our size – and is something for which we have become renowned. Irish Red Cross members – such as those you have mentioned who went to Afghanistan – are acting in that spirit of care and concern - and for the relief of suffering – that sees you constantly prepared to step in to help. As you point out, the Red Cross in Ireland has been there at the ready when it is needed – with over 4,000 volunteers – each of whom is motivated by the highest idealism – giving practical help and assistance to those in need – and in the process making the world a better place in which to live. Indeed, the availability of new volunteers to join the Society is in itself a tribute to the organisation - and to the manner it which it has conducted its affairs.
Your recent initiative with colleagues in Northern Ireland to provide respite care, is another example of the Society’s readiness to provide a service that is much needed. The plight of carers can be debilitating and frustrating – where they often carry the double burden of watching a relative or friend slowly decline and suffer in pain, while they themselves carry the increasing burden of care and attention. The terrible strain that that puts on carers can be immense – and you have stepped in once again when needed - to relieve the suffering of those concerned. That quiet suffering of the carers often goes unremarked - the young student coping with exams and a parent with Alzheimer’s who never sits down night or day. That initiative is a continuation of the pioneering role of the Irish Red Cross which you spoke about earlier. The involvement of Red Cross personnel in building up community services continues to grow – and I congratulate all of those involved on their dedication and selfless commitment to the high ideals of the Society.
For me, this is a special occasion. It is my first year in office – and the first opportunity I have had to make the annual presentation of the Red Cross trophy and Awards. It is a welcome opportunity to value the work of the Irish Red Cross Society – and to let your members know how much their work is appreciated. As you approach the Diamond Jubilee of the Red Cross in Ireland – when you will have due cause to celebrate the achievements of the many volunteers that have served with distinction and honour – it is my pleasure, on behalf of the Irish people – to thank you. And it is my very great pleasure now to present the awards to the competition winners.