Laois Civil Defence Officer scoops national award

A Laois Civil Defence Officer has been awarded the Volunteer Manager Award at the 2024 Volunteer Ireland Awards night. 

Borris-in-Ossory man Damien Dollard scooped the prize on December 8 at the 17th annual Volunteer Ireland Awards in the Carlton hotel, Blanchardstown.

Mr Dollard has been described as a mentor, a friend and a support for many volunteers.

Having began as a volunteer himself before progressing to a leadership role, Mr Dollard has been described by his fellow volunteers as 'knowing exactly how to be there for volunteers, on the good days and the bad days'.

"The award category was for paid voluntary managers, it's a position I took up about two years ago," Mr Dollard explained.

"I had been volunteering with Laois Civil Defence for 14 years prior to this job, and I love it," he said.

"Though I am now in a paid position, I still see myself as a volunteer."

Now living in Portlaoise, Mr Dollard provides support to the 53 volunteers, and organises training sessions within the Laois Civil Defence.

"The event itself was excellent, it was full of volunteers from all walks of life, it was a great way to mark the voluntary work done locally, we have a great team in Laois," Mr Dollard said.

Mr Dollard first began volunteering sixteen years ago, having been encouraged to by his wife at the time.

"There is great work done by volunteers, Volunteer Ireland do a lot of work to support volunteering across the country," Mr Dollard praised. 

Mr Dollard was nominated for the award by his fellow volunteers, and had no idea at the time.

Laois Volunteer Centre Manager Caitriona Ryan congratulated Mr Dollard on his award.

“Volunteering doesn’t happen on its own – it needs support and guidance," Ms Ryan said.

"Damien is the perfect example of a Volunteer Manager who really understands volunteering and is there to provide a friendly ear and helping hand when needed.

"Volunteering simply couldn’t happen without people like Damien and it’s great to see that recognised at national level. I’d like to congratulate Damien along with all of the winners and nominees," she finished.

Minister of State for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Colm Burke T.D. applauded the awards ceremony for their recognition of selfless volunteers.

“These annual awards are a wonderful way to acknowledge the selfless commitment and dedication of so many volunteers whose efforts have a transformative impact on communities all over Ireland," he said.

"The work they do brings people together, strengthening our social fabric and enhancing social connections for people across all walks of life. I’m delighted on behalf of Healthy Ireland to congratulate this year’s winners, and to commend them for devoting their time, skills and talents to enrich the lives of others," Minister Burke finished.

Mr Dollard has said that the group are always eager to welcome new volunteers. Those who wish to join can do so here, or can contact the team at civildefence@laoiscoco.ie.

Laois Civil Defence will be overseeing the annual St Stephen's Day walk for Laois Hospice in Clonaslee, along with the Christmas fair at Abbeyleix House and Farm.

Volunteer Ireland is the national organisation that promotes, supports and advocates for volunteering in Ireland. This was the organisation's 17th annual Voluntary Awards night. 

The 2024 Volunteer Ireland Awards are made possible thanks to support from the Department of Rural and Community Development and award partner Healthy Ireland.