Tullamore Lions Club honoured with civic reception
Tullamore Lions Club's 50 years of dedicated service to the local community has been recognised with a civic reception hosted by the Municipal District of Tullamore.
Speaking at the event, Cathaoirleach Cllr Declan Harvey described the civic recognition ceremony as the "highest honour" the Municipal District can confer.
On behalf of the elected members, he expressed his delight in acknowledging the Lions Club’s "outstanding contribution" to Tullamore and beyond since its founding in 1975.
“The Lions Club motto, ‘We Serve’, truly reflects the spirit in which its members have supported our community for five decades,” Cllr Harvey said.
He thanked past and present members for their commitment, noting that their efforts have benefited not only Tullamore and Offaly but also communities worldwide. Special recognition was given to Tom Maher, one of the founding members, who attended the reception.
Elected members Cllrs Shane Murray, Neil Feighery, Sean O’Brien and Ollie Bryant joined Cllr Harvey in welcoming the large number of Lions Club members present.
Each shared personal reflections on the Club’s impact, highlighting its support for initiatives such as Tidy Towns, Hooves4Hospice, Esker Arts, Tullamore Housing Association, and Midland Simon.
Paul McLoughlin, Director of Services for the Tullamore Municipal District, praised the breadth and diversity of the Lions Club’s projects over the years.
From the annual Christmas Food Appeal to fitness equipment in Lloyd Park, the Ukrainian English Language Project, and the pioneering bog restoration project at Clonbeale near Rath, their work has left a lasting legacy.
Dymphna Bracken, President of Tullamore Lions Club, accepted the civic recognition scroll and medallion on behalf of the club.
In her address, she thanked the Municipal District for the honour and acknowledged the partnerships that have enabled so many successful projects.
“It is a privilege to accept this accolade on behalf of our members, past and present,” she said.
The reception marked a fitting conclusion to a milestone year for Tullamore Lions Club, celebrating five decades of service and community impact.