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FIFTEEN AWARDS RECOGNISING outstanding acts of bravery were awarded at a national ceremony in Farmleigh House today.
The son of Caitriona Lucas accepted a posthumous Gold Medal for Bravery in recognition of his mother’s courage, which is the highest award possible.
The coast guard volunteer tragically died during a search off the County Clare coast in September 2016.
Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó’Fearghaíl said, “Catriona’s courage and selfless action on that day says everything about her – her strength of character and spirit and willingness to help others.
It is also a reminder of how committed and brave members of our emergency services put their lives on the line on a daily basis to help and protect their communities.
In total, 15 awards were given out. Twelve people received a Bronze Medal and Certificate of Bravery and two were awarded a Certificate of Bravery.
The twelve who received a Bronze Medal and Certificate of Bravery were:
Darren McMahon and Sergeant John Casey were also awarded a Certificate of Bravery.
Congratulating the recipients, Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó’ Fearghaíl, said: “Today we celebrate the actions of very brave people from every corner of the country, who, through their heroic and courageous acts have helped other people.”
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She was indeed brave. Selfless, inspiring, heart of gold, loving mother, loving wife. Beautiful in every way. What a legacy. I saw her family on The Late Late Show and they have the same courage in their grief. God love them. Catriona Lucas, we will never forget you.
@Sinead Hanley: There’s nothing we can say to bring her back , she would have put her hand into the sea many times and said , I have you .
Only her family can say , we had you .
May she rest in peace , There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLMVB0B1_Ts
@Paddy Hayden: hear hear
Congratulations to all of these brave heroes!
Let the selfish people who would ever blithely ignore a Red weather warning REFLECT for a moment, and consider the ultimate sacrifices of brave folk like Cathriona Lucas in helping their fellow man.
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