Fine Gael honours long-serving members in Offaly
A number of long-serving members of the Fine Gael party in Offaly were honoured at its annual Christmas Social which took place at the Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore, last Thursday (December 4).
Those honoured on the evening included Johnny and Alice Carroll (Ballyboy), Martin and Mary O’Donoghue (Daingean), and Michael Hickey (Tullamore).
Fine Gael said each of these members had "played an invaluable role in supporting the party locally" over many years.
The well-attended event was chaired by constituency chairperson Molly Buckley, who warmly welcomed the large gathering that included Councillors Eleanor Clendennen, Noel Cribbin, Liam Quinn, and Hughie Egan, as well as Deputy John Clendennen and Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke.
Molly Buckley opened proceedings by thanking members for their commitment throughout "another busy but productive year" for the party.
Attendees were also joined via video link by An Tánaiste Simon Harris and Minister Helen McEntee, both of whom conveyed their appreciation for the dedication and energy of members across the constituency.
Deputy John Clendennen expressed his sincere gratitude to party members for their support during his first year as a TD. He acknowledged the encouragement he has received at events throughout the year, from the Business Budget Breakfast to local fundraisers and community engagements and emphasised the importance of teamwork within the organisation.
Minister Peter Burke travelled to Tullamore following a full day of engagements on Thursday. He congratulated the Offaly organisation for its strong electoral performance, highlighting Fine Gael’s success in gaining a seat in the recent local elections and another in the general election.
He noted that this momentum reflects the hard work of public representatives and a highly committed organisation across the constituency, forecasting continued progress in the year ahead.
The presentation of awards came as a pleasant surprise to the recipients, who were joined by family members as their long-standing contributions were celebrated. The evening concluded with tea and refreshments.