Limerick man honoured for his 60 years of service with Civil Defence

A LIMERICK MAN has been honoured for his 60 years of service in the Civil Defence.

Michael J Ryan from Corbally celebrated 60 years of service with Limerick City and County Civil Defence back in 2021, and was among 100 of his comrades to receive long service medals from Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin TD earlier this month.

The medals were awarded to members of Civil Defence from across the country in a national ceremony at Trinity College Dublin.

The medals were awarded for 30, 40, 50 and 60 years of service in the Civil Defence.

Mr Ryan, who had an interest in first aid since he was a child, joined the Civil Defence in 1961. He went on to become a first aid instructor in January 1975, and since then has acquired many various skills and qualifications.

Speaking at the event, the Tánaiste said: "I am delighted to formally honour the long and distinguished years of service of these Civil Defence members with the award of long service medals. As we see on a constant basis, the Civil Defence plays an essential role in so many aspects of daily life, whether responding to search and rescue, flooding or other events.

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"It is because of this vital role that the Government is committed to continuing its investment in the modernisation of the Civil Defence to ensure that this invaluable organisation continues to grow and fulfil its crucial role in Irish society,” he added.

Including Mr Ryan, 10 recipients received 60-year medals; one each from Cavan, and Wicklow, two from Louth and five from Dublin.

These volunteers joined in the 1960s, when younger recruits under the age of 18 were still allowed to join.

In addition to supporting the primary response agencies such as An Garda Síochána, the Fire Service and the HSE, Civil Defence also support their local communities through medical cover and other means for charity and other local events.