Gardaí eye record number of youth award nominations

Gardaí are hoping for a record number of nominations for their annual youth awards in West Cork.

The youth achievement awards were the first of their type to be set up in the country, when initiated by Bandon-based Garda Juvenile Liaison Officer James O’Mahony in 1995.

Since then, many other garda divisions around the country have copied the awards system, which are deigned to highlight some of the tremendous voluntary work done by teenagers in their communities.

Last year, they received 147 nominations and this year, its 20th anniversary, they are hoping to get an even larger number.

The awards celebrate outstanding people between the ages of 13 and 21 years and, since their inception, have been sponsored by SuperValu.

Awards spokesman Garda Damian White, a community garda based in Bandon, said even those who do not receive awards will get a certificate acknowledging their contribution to society.

“This way, all nominees are recognised for their efforts, and the certificate is a very valuable item to have on a young person’s CV,” Garda White said.

This year, the West Cork Garda Youth Awards will take place on November 27 in the Maritime Hotel, Bantry.

Garda White said there are 11 awards in total: Five overall awards, four district awards for those living in the Macroom, Bantry, Bandon, and Clonakilty; one group award; and one special achievement award.

He said the group award category applies for groups of two or more young people.

The special achievement category is open to any young person who has overcome difficulties.

Inspector Pat Meaney said sacrifices are being made by many young people for the betterment of their communities.