CLARE County Council will light up Áras Contae an Chláir in teal next month to show its support for World Ovarian Cancer Day.
At this month’s meeting of the local authority it was confirmed that the council’s headquarters would be lit up on May 8 to raise awareness of ovarian cancer which has been dubbed ‘the silent killer’.
The date also marks the 11th anniversary of the founding of the Clare Cancer Support Centre (Sláinte an Chlár) in Kilnamona.
A joint motion requesting that Áras Contae an Chláir be lit up in honour of World Ovarian Cancer day while also acknowledging the anniversary of the Clare Cancer Support Centre was proposed by Councillors Clare Colleran Molloy, Susan Crawford and John Crowe.
The council headquarters will join other high profile buildings nationwide in the action including the Mansion House, the National Concert Hall, the Titanic Building, Cork City Hall, UCC, NUIG, Kilkenny Castle and the Rock of Cashel.
Councillor Colleran Molloy stated, “Ovarian cancer is known as the silent killer for women, it’s the sixth most common cancer for women in Ireland,” she said.
Councillor Crawford commented, “it seems very fitting to be acknowledging World Ovarian Cancer Day and the work of Clare Cancer Support Centre.”
She described ovarian cancer as “one of the most frightening cancers, it literally is a silent killer. It is important that women are aware and are vigilant and attend check-ups.
Councillor Crowe said he was “delighted” to support the proposal, and he congratulated Clare Cancer Support Centre on their anniversary. Councillor Michael Begley also voiced his support.
Ann Reynolds, Senior Executive Officer Corporate Services responding to the motion stated, “The council has the facility to light up the Áras building in various colours and has been responding to requests for lighting events.
“Requests have become more frequent in recent months and are co-ordinated by the Communications and Facilities teams. The council can accommodate such requests provided the light colour requested is available and it does not coincide with another previously confirmed lighting event.
“A lighting event has been scheduled at the Áras for World Ovarian Cancer Day on May 8 per the request in this Notice of Motion.”