Now is the time to nominate that special Person of the Year 2017
By Mary Dennehy
WITH just four days left to nominate your unsung hero for Tallaght Person of the Year 2017, the Fettercairn Horse Project talks to The Echo about how much it meant to them to be nominated for the Community Award in 2016.
Organised by Tallaght Community Council (TCC), the awards programme is now celebrating 34 years of community success, as it recognises those who selflessly and positively contribute to the diverse tapestry of life across Dublin 24.
The annual awards are an integral part of local life and a glowing reminder of all that is good about living and working in Dublin 24 – and the army of unsung heroes who are the community’s backbone.
This year the glitzy awards ceremony will be staged in the Red Cow Moran Hotel on Friday, November 17 – with tickets currently on sale from the Box Office in The Echo office on Main Road, Tallaght.
Last year’s community winner, the Fettercairn Horse Project spoke of the importance of the awards in recognising community groups and individuals across the area.
Opened since 2000, the horse project has up to 100 young people using the centre each week, with staff also hoping to develop a sensory trail for members who have special needs.
Ann Keogan, project manager, said: “It was a great honour to win the community award last year, we were delighted . . . it was a great surprise.
“I think the awards are really important. They give recognition to groups and individuals who are working hard to make a difference.
“We are currently trying to raise the money for a sensory trail, which would support all of the children with special needs who live locally and those already using the project. We are inviting any people living in the community or local businesses to support us.”
TCC is this week encouraging members of the community to get nominating so other organisations like the Fettercairn Horse Project can be recognised.
Tara De Buitléar, PRO of TCC, said: “The Tallaght Person of the Year Awards are an easy way to recognise someone who makes a huge difference in your family, your community and the lives of others.
“Many community heroes are silent, humble giants – unsung heroes who don’t seek any public reward. Every nominee gets a certificate of recognition and is honoured at our awards ceremony on the Roll of Honour.”
Nominate across the seven categories of Art and Culture, Community, Heart of Gold, Michael Dooley Environment, Special Needs and Carers, Philip Preston Sport and Maurice McConnell Youth by Monday, October 23.
The guest of honour at this year’s ceremony is Tallaght native and All-Ireland winner Denis Bastick. Live entertainment is provided by Level Heads.
For full details on each category and how to nominate online visit www.tallaghtpersonawards.ie
