Actor Emmet Kirwan revealed as Guest of Honour for awards night
By Mary Dennehy
THE 35th Tallaght Person of the Year has been officially launched, with local poet, playwright and actor Emmet Kirwan being revealed as the Guest of Honour.
Run by the Tallaght Community Council (TCC), the annual awards are a staple of community life and a glowing reminder of all that is good about Tallaght and the people who live here.
The prestigious annual event recognises the trojan work carried out by the area's army of unsung heroes - many of whom donate their time to the improvement of communities.
According to TCC, the awards have been successful in not only recognising unsung heroes, who make a positive impact in their communities, but the programme has also helped “cast a positive spotlight on Tallaght nationally”.
Last Saturday, residents from across the Tallaght community gathered in The Station at Molloy’s for the official launch of the 35th Tallaght Person of the Year – with nominations now open until Friday, October 26.
The awards cover seven categories, including Arts and Culture, Business, Sgt Callinan Community, Michael Dooley Environment, Special Needs and Carers, Heart of Gold, Philip Preston Sports and Maurice Mc Connell Youth.
According to the current Tallaght Person of the Year, Sinead Tighe: “Making a nomination in these awards to recognise someone you know can help make a big impact on them personally, it can give them a real lift and help motivate them to keep going or giving to others.”
Gerry Stockil, voluntary Chairperson of TCC, spoke during the launch of how the awards are a real snapshot of Tallaght, shining a direct and uncensored light on a powerful community.
“These awards are a reflection of the talent, commitment, passion and sense of connection that is present in spades in Tallaght – a city in all but name,” Mr Stockil said.
During the launch, Tara De Buitlear, the PRO Officer for TCC, revealed this year’s special guest.
“We are delighted to announce our special guest this year is actor and playwright Emmet Kirwan.
“Emmet is busy in London, as his show goes from strength to strength… we are thrilled that he can make it home to help us celebrate Tallaght’s unsung heroes next month.
“Our special guests are Tallaght natives who have achieved in a particular field and help to illustrate the talent we have and nurture in Tallaght.”
Members of the community are now encouraged to get nominating that person or group who make a difference to their life or community before Friday, October 26.
The award ceremony will take place in the Red Cow Moran Hotel on Friday, November 16, with tickets going on sale later this month from the Box Office in The Echo.
For further details or to nominate online visit www.tallaghtpersonawards.ie.
