Ena stunned by Volunteer victory

ENA HOWELL thought the other five finalists in the ICA Volunteer of the Year competition were fantastic. “I was shocked to win,” says the Cork Federation secretary, who’s a mum-of-three and who has also been a foster carer for 22 years.

But cast even a quick glance at the Grenagh woman’s long list of community involvement and you’d be surprised if Ena hadn’t been named Volunteer of the Year in Galway earlier this month. She has held several offices in Grenagh ICA Guild, she has been federation competitions secretary, information officer and new members’ liaison officer.

She also does loads beyond the ICA realm. On Saturdays, she’s in Cork Prison with St Nicholas Trust, a relatively new support group for families of prisoners. “We’re there for families who have to visit Cork Prison, which is a dull and daunting place. There’s a stigma attached to imprisonment. We give out teas, coffees, soft drinks and biscuits, as well as colouring books and pencils for the children while they’re waiting to visit.