By Dan Walsh
The 2026 New Ross Municipal District Civic Awards were presented at the Brandon House Hotel, New Ross, last Thursday night where recipients were warmly celebrated by the district staff.
It was a special occasion where the local councillors came together to recognise the extraordinary individuals, groups, and organisations who make the area a better place to live, work, and thrive.
Master of Ceremonies for the evening, District Manager Alan Fitzhenry welcomed all and explained to the packed room at the Brandon House Hotel that a Civic Award is the highest honour the Municipal District can bestow.
Mr Fitzhenry spoke about the importance of community leadership and communicated to the recipients how immensely proud the New Ross District is of their achievements.
An Cathaoirleach, Cllr John Dwyer, led the tributes, presenting awards to the Original Founding Board Members of New Ross Community Hospital (Service to the Community), the Power School of Dance (Excellence in Irish Dance Education), and sporting brothers Dean and Jesse O’Riordan (Excellence in Sport).
An Leas-Cathaoirleach, Cllr John Fleming then took to the stage to honour Cloughbawn GAA & Camogie Club (Excellence in Sport), Cushinstown Development Group – Cush Croí (Service to the Community), and Rathnure Development Group (Service to the Community).
Cllr Pat Barden presented awards to Ann Murphy (Service to the Community), Gusserane All Stars (Service to the Community), and New Ross River Search & Rescue (Service to the Community).
Cllr Bridín Murphy recognised Therese Dalton of Screen Wexford (Excellence in Youth Services & the Arts), Emma Hickey (Excellence in Sport), and Nuala Slevin-Reck and David Reck (Dedication to Social Inclusion in Agriculture).
Cllr Marty Murphy honoured Liam Ryan (Dedication to the Community), Stefan Whelan (Excellence in Community Fundraising), and South West Wexford Family Resource Centre (Service to the Community).
Cllr Michael Sheehan completed the presentations celebrating Thomas ‘Stan’ Blanche (Excellence in Sports & Dedication to the Community), Mary Browne (Service to the Community), and the New Ross Municipal District Staff & Crew (Dedication to the Community).
Speaking after the event, Cllr Dwyer said; “It is vitally important to recognise excellence in our community. Nights like this remind us that every great town is built on people who give their time, show real leadership, and inspire everyone around them. We’re very proud to celebrate every single one of our award winners tonight.”
The event was a powerful reminder that community spirit remains strong and thriving in New Ross.
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