PICTURES: John Kiely springs surprise at local GAA Oscars

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PROUD GAA men and women who don’t seek the limelight enjoyed their own ‘Oscars’ in the Millennium Centre in Caherconlish.

The East Limerick Gaels Awards honours Gaels in the division who have given lifelong, voluntary and dedicated service to the GAA in various capacities over the years.

Many worked in administration, fundraising, field maintenance, refereeing and endless other important chores. Others have excelled on the field of play and brought honour to their clubs, division and county.

The special guest at the function in the Millennium Centre in Caherconlish was Limerick hurling manager John Kiely. He presented the Tom O'Brien Personality Award with Mr O'Brien's son Colm, to the MC on the night, Matt O'Callaghan.

Ger O’Connell, one of the organisers, said the long-serving journalist and huge Limerick hurling supporter knew nothing about this accolade.

“I gave Matt a blank programme so it came as a complete shock to him. John Kiely paid him a glowing tribute,” said Mr O’Connell.

There was also a special recognition award for the late and great Dolores O’Riordan for The Cranberries’ song Dreams which has become synonymous with the Limerick hurlers’ success in recent years.

“Dolores' brother Joseph was there to accept the award. The second recognition award went to Brian Butler of Doon whose cup, the Brian Butler Cup, had been played for, for 40 years.

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His widow Mary accepted the award. Niall Deegan, Liam O'Brien, and James Lundon were awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award for their book Keeping the Dream Alive.

“Pauline Hynan, of Cappamore, received the lifetime achievement award for her dance teaching and inspiration. Paddy Collins, of Ahane, received the Jimmy Butler Coffey Award. This was presented by his son and well-known official Patsy Coffey,” said Mr O’Connell, who thanked their main sponsors St Ailbes Credit Union.

The back page of the booklet was a tribute to its late and much-missed manager Esther Ryan.

Cappamore Set Dancers provided wonderful entertainment as did singer Maire Therese Tierney, who opened and closed a magnificent occasion, which was also attended by Mayor of Limerick City and County, Gerald Mitchell.