After 50 years the Order of Malta celebrates in style

THE Tallaght unit of the Order of Malta celebrated their 50th anniversary with a well-attended party in Molloy’s on Saturday night.

Over 70 attended, including members of other branches of the Order of Malta, the Crumlin, Balbriggan and Navan units.

The Tallaght unit currently has 30 members who provide ambulance and first aid services, particularly at community events such as fundraisers, and they also assist with transfers.

Gerry Condon, an instructor from the Tallaght unit who lives in Millbrook Lawns, told The Echo that the unit has been growing in recent years.

“We just realised that the 50th anniversary was coming up, and the unit itself is going from strength to strength – it’s growing,” he said.

The strength of the unit has been recognised at the Order of Malta’s National Competition, which is a particular point of pride for Gerry.

“Two years ago, the Tallaght unit hadn’t entered in the National Competition in 10 or 12 years,” he explained.

“I pushed for us to enter, and we actually came second overall.

“That was a very proud moment for me and for the unit.” At the most recent National Competition, the Tallaght unit placed second in three categories and third in one category.

“At the Order of Malta’s recent AGM, the Tallaght unit was commended as the most progressive unit in the country.

“We’re making our mark, and we’ve come a long way in the last two or three years,” added Gerry, who is also involved in Mountain Rescue and works as a civil servant.

The unit’s work usually includes providing medical cover at events, and also transferring patients from hospitals and nursing homes.

When asked what his hopes are for the future of the Tallaght unit of the Order of Malta, Gerry said he hopes the group will gain more of a foothold in the area and that membership will grow.

“Going forward, the aim is to build a bigger membership for 2024, get more duties in the community and get more involved,” he said.

For further information visit the Order of Malta Ireland Ambulance Corp Tallaght Unit Facebook page.

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