Retired RTÉ commentator Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh has praised volunteers in organisations across the emergency and voluntary spectrum for their tireless work and commitment throughout the years.

There are about 4,000 of them and they’re discretely saving Irish lives. They are volunteers with the National Network of Community First Responders, known simply as “first responders,” and they deliver citizen CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) as you wait for an ambulance.

Today marks the beginning of National Volunteering Week. Ellie O’Byrne pays tribute to our unpaid heroes.

They’ve breathed new life into the historic spine of their city, reinvigorating ancient lanes and public spaces with stunning murals and creative arts projects. Now they’re turning their attention to the city’s river and quays.

Sligo is to stage a spectacular opening ceremony to kick off its year as European Volunteering Capital 2017.

Helen O’Callaghan on a teen’s early start in volunteering