Samaritans serving Clare for 30 years

THE Mayor of Clare and members of the county council hosted a civic reception on Monday to honour the Samaritans, in recognition of the organisation’s 30 years of service.

 

The reception took place in the Council Chamber and was attended by dozens of volunteers, including branch director Gerry Dobbin and four people who have been involved since 1982.

 

Mayor Pat Hayes proposed that the reception be held to mark the Samaritans 30 years and he said that voluntary organisations like it are making a major contribution to Clare.

“There are a large number of voluntary organisations that neither receive nor seek recognition for the work they carry out. Consequently, it is only through those they have helped that their good work is promoted. Clare County Council is delighted to be able to officially acknowledge the local branch of the Samaritans and, in doing so, promote the work and services of the organisation.

“Depression and loneliness are issues that are encountered by everyone in their lives at some point or other, whether that is personally or through a family member or friend. Now more than ever, in a time of great social and economic change, family units and individuals are feeling the stresses of everyday life. It is reassuring to know that the Samaritans are there to lend a supporting hand.”

The Mayor also praised the people who have done their best to raise funds for the organisation since 1982.

“I would like to pay tribute to the many volunteers around the county for their efforts in raising the necessary funds to maintain the services provided by the Samaritans here in Clare. Irrespective of the weather conditions, time of day or time of year, they have walked the streets of Clare to fundraise and, in doing so, have contributed immeasurably to the organisation’s success. This culture of volunteerism also creates a sense of neighbourliness and helps carry local communities through good times and bad.
“In recognising your contribution over the past 30 years, it is important that we acknowledge that your work is ongoing and how now, more than ever, your services are being called upon.”

Branch director Gerry Dobbin thanked the council for the honour. “On behalf of the volunteers I’d like to thank the councillors and the Mayor for your generosity of spirit and we truly appreciate you honouring the branch in this way.”

He said the Clare and Ennis branch was the first in the country to open outside a major urban centre and that it is very well regarded within the wider Samaritans organisation.

Gerry thanked all the volunteers who have been involved over the years and those who have given financial support to the organisation.