Speech by the Taoiseach, Mr. Bertie Ahern, T.D., at the Cork Person of the Year Awards in the Sheraton Fota Island Golf Resort and Spa on Friday, 26 January, 2007 at 1.00pm..
It was only last September that I had the pleasure of opening the Sheraton Fota Island Golf Resort and Spa. I am delighted to be back here again today to attend the 14th Cork Person of the Year Awards. These prestigious awards showcase Cork people from all walks of life who have attained outstanding success in their own specialised fields. The awards also exhibit the great wealth of sporting, artistic, literary and creative talent that is evidently abundant across the City and County of Cork.
Cork is a progressive and vibrant city and this is reflected in its people who are full of life, confident and very proud of their many achievements in business, the arts and sport. Always ready to take on a new challenge, Cork enjoyed huge success as the European Capital of Culture in 2005 and proudly represented Ireland on the European stage.
Last Tuesday, we launched the new National Development Plan. This clearly sets out our vision to achieve a fairer and a stronger Ireland. Central to this new 7 year Plan is Cork’s position as a vital economic and social Gateway. The NDP sets out the investment and policies which will defend the prosperity that has been achieved by your hard work and tackle any inequality that persists in Cork City and County.
Of course, no one can be in any doubt about Cork’s prowess in sport. Even talking about sport, the people of Cork exude an unimaginable intensity and passion. But unquestionably, they also possess a great sense of community spirit and enjoy helping others. And that is the very essence of why we are here today.
Despite the diversity of achievements being honoured here this afternoon, the nominees have a number of qualities in common. Their talent, vision, determination and courage are clearly evident in all their undertakings.
Nowadays, we all lead such busy lifestyles that it is often easy to become complacent and take things for granted. As some of you will know, the subject of volunteering or active citizenship is one that is very close to my heart. Awards such as these give us an opportunity to take time out and acknowledge in a very specific and public way the people in our community who have made a difference. It can be anything from volunteer work at local or community level, to major achievements at national or international level. All our nominees here today have made their mark in society.
A huge amount of credit and recognition is due to Manus O’Callaghan who has, practically single handedly, been organising these awards since their establishment in the early 1990’s. Manus, your commitment and dedication have been central to the success of the Awards over the last 14 years. Your tireless work is an inspiration to us all and we thank you most sincerely.
I would also like to acknowledge and say a special word of thanks to the four generous sponsors this year - Southern Advertising, the Irish Examiner, RTE and the Sheraton Fota Island Golf Resort and Spa. Through your sponsorship, you are recognising the importance of these Awards and ensuring their continuation.
Finally, I know you are all eagerly waiting to hear the identity of the Cork Person of the Year for 2006, so I will not delay proceedings any longer. I would like, however, to convey my warmest personal congratulations to each of the 12 nominees and to wish you all continued success in 2007.
Thank you.
ENDS.