Dlr community volunteers celebrated for outstanding service

The dlr Community and Volunteer Awards 2026 honoured remarkable individuals and groups who have significantly contributed to local life. The event took place at the Royal Marine Hotel, recognising dedication across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown’s diverse communities.

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council proudly hosted the dlr Community and Volunteer Awards 2026 on the evening of 5 November 2026 at the Royal Marine Hotel, Dún Laoghaire, celebrating the exceptional efforts of community groups and volunteers from across the county.

A celebration of dedication and impact

The event shone a spotlight on those whose unwavering commitment, generosity, and community spirit continue to strengthen and enrich life throughout Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. From youth support and inclusion initiatives to environmental projects and social services, each nominee and winner has demonstrated a profound positive influence on their local area.

Speaking at the ceremony, Cllr Barry Saul, An Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, praised the nominees and winners:

"This evening celebrates not only our award recipients but the entire network of volunteers and community groups whose extraordinary contributions make our communities thrive."

The awards brought together community leaders, elected representatives, council staff, and volunteers to honour the remarkable civic pride and compassion evident in the county’s diverse initiatives.

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire County Council, expressed gratitude for the inspiring nominations received:

"These stories reflect volunteers giving their time selflessly, groups supporting one another, and leaders whose vision is creating stronger, more connected communities."

Awards and recognition

This year, 36 volunteer nominations and 29 community group nominations were formally acknowledged. The categories included:

Community Organisation
Volunteer-Led Community Group
Good Governance
Moment to Celebrate
Community Collaboration
Volunteer of the Year
Committee Member of the Year

Awards were presented by Cllr Barry Saul, alongside Deirdre Baber, Director of Service, and Mary Ruane, Senior Executive Officer, both from the Community, Cultural Development and Parks department.

Winners and runners-up

Moment to Celebrate:

Runner-up: St. Mary's Football Club
Winner: Dundrum Arch Club

Good Governance:

Runner-up: South Dublin Volleyball Club
Winner: Shankill Senior Centre

Community Collaboration:

Runner-up: Shankill Ballybrack Community First Responders
Winner: Cuala GAA Club, Social Integration Project

Volunteer-led Community Group:

Runner-up: Living Well with Dementia
Winner: Kill Avenue Deansgrange Tidy Towns

Community Organisation:

Runner-up: Open Spectrum
Winner: Shanganagh Park House Community Centre

Special Recognition Awards:

Gerry Mulvey – Charity Tractor Run
Casey Devlin – Community Led Youth Work
Ken Fitzpatrick – Remarkable Achievement
Older Person Council dlr – 25-year journey of service

Committee Member of the Year:

Runner-up: Catherine Harris, Dun Laoghaire Tidy Towns
Winner: Eimear Byrne, 8ú Calafort Dun Laoghaire Sea Scouts

Volunteer of the Year:

Runner-up: Pam Brady, Shanganagh Community Gardens
Winner: Brian Power, Order of Malta Dundrum Unit

This celebration of community spirit highlights the vital role volunteers and groups play in enriching local life, inspiring others to contribute to the ongoing development of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.