Best and worst of the year marked
Among those awarded prizes were survivors of institutional abuse Christine Buckley and Michael O’Brien, and the Irish rugby team, represented by Brian O’Driscoll, Jerry Flannery and Luke Fitzgerald. One a great high for the annals of Irish history – the other a shameful low.
Yet it is perhaps the beauty of the annual Rehab event, now in its 35th year, that it can honour such diverse and deserving contributions to Irish life.
Another low point this year was the murder of Limerick man Roy Collins, an innocent victim of gang violence in Limerick. His father Steve Collins was awarded a People of the Year Award for his bravery in the midst of the loss of his son, and amid continued threats to his life and the lives of his loved ones.
His refusal to give in to the gangs and his campaign to reclaim the streets from criminality has seen thousands of Limerick people rally behind him in a collective show of support.
Another plaudit for bravery was that given to 20-year-old Sarah Kavanagh from Rathgarogue, Co Wexford. Ms Kavanagh was honoured with the Young Person of the Year Award for her immense courage in saving the life of her sister.
In June 2008, a freak accident at a local petrol station saw a car career out of control and smash into a petrol pump immediately setting the forecourt alight and trapping her younger sister.
Michelle, then aged 12, had her foot stuck in the petrol pump with her shoe on fire. Sarah ran to her sister, and managed to free her and drag her to safety seconds before the entire petrol station blew up in flames.
Much-loved stalwart of Irish music Ronnie Drew was posthumously remembered with his son Phelim Drew accepting the award on his behalf.
And the Irish Hospice Foundation was awarded with a People of the Year award for its support of and commitment to a comprehensive palliative care service and for its vision for the future care of all people facing the end of life.
Other winners included Brian O’Driscoll in recognition of his contribution to Irish rugby as captain of the Ireland and Leinster rugby squads and as a Lions player, and actor David Kelly for his contribution to stage and screen in Ireland and as an international film star.
