Garda who twice braved icy waters is first to win two prizes at ceremony

A quick-thinking garda has become the first person to receive two National Bravery Awards in the same year in the ceremony’s 67-year history, after risking his own life to ensure the safety of the public.

Garda Mark Irwin was given the unprecedented accolade at an event in Farmleigh House, alongside 19 other everyday heroes, the youngest of whom is just 15,

On October 28, 2012, the garda and reservist Stephen Corrigan were forced to stop chasing a car in Westport, Co Mayo, as it was no longer safe. Moments later, the duo saw the same vehicle crash into Knappaghbeg Lake.