Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Awards 2026
Awards celebrate the unsung heroes in communities throughout County Longford
Press Release: Friday 12 June 2026
Longford County Council acknowledged a number of community groups and individuals who have contributed selflessly to their local communities at the annual Cathaoirleach Awards which were held in Áras an Chontae this week.
The Cathaoirleach Awards are an annual initiative to acknowledge and reward voluntary activity which contributes greatly to the quality of life in communities across County Longford.
The recipients of this year’s Cathaoirleach Awards were:
- James Cawley Jnr, Cathaoirleach Award, nominated by Cllr Garry Murtagh, Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council
- Newtowncashel Drama Group, nominated by Cllr Martin Skelly, Cathaoirleach of Ballymahon Municipal District
- Rosemary Gaynor, nominated by Cllr Turlough McGovern, Cathaoirleach of Granard Municipal District
- St Christopher’s Services, nominated by Cllr Uruemu Adejinmi, Cathaoirleach of Longford Municipal District
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “The Cathaoirleach Awards shine a light on the everyday acts of care, kindness and compassion which hold communities together throughout County Longford. These individuals and groups work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that their communities are stronger, more vibrant, and caring places. It is our honour to recognise their incredible contributions.”
Presenting the Cathaoirleach Award, Cllr Murtagh said that James Cawley Jnr had demonstrated a lifelong commitment to equality, inclusion and human rights.
The Cathaoirleach said, “James has shown, from a very young age, what can be achieved when barriers are challenged with courage, persistence and respect. Through his work in education, national policy, and disability advocacy, he has improved access to housing, transport, employment and independent living for Disabled people across Ireland. He has also brought this work back to his own community in Longford, giving his time and expertise generously.”
Newtowncashel Drama Group was recognised for their contribution to community life for over 100 years. The group plays an important role in the social and cultural fabric of the local community providing valuable entertainment with a strong, vibrant history and positive outlook for the future.
Rosemary Gaynor from Granard Library was recognised for being a perfect example of a community librarian, driving community engagement and participation.
Rosemary has been at the heart of Granard life for over four decades, dedicating 41 years to Granard Library, where her journey began as a work experience student and grew into a lifelong vocation.
St Christopher’s Services was recognised for being a leading provider of person-centred supports for people with intellectual disabilities, grounded in respect, inclusion and empowerment. The award recognised the exceptional dedication and transformative impact on the lives of people with intellectual disabilities across County Longford and the profound and lasting difference St Christopher’s Services make every day.
Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon said that the Cathaoirleach Awards was a highlight of the council calendar and a true celebration of the people who make our communities thrive.
The Chief Executive said, “I want to pay tribute to all our award recipients. James Cawley Jnr shows how determination and leadership can remove barriers and improve lives far beyond one community. Newtowncashel Drama Group reminds us of the lasting value of culture, creativity and coming together, built up over generations. Rosemary Gaynor has given a lifetime of service to Granard, making the library a welcoming place at the heart of the town. St Christopher’s Services continue to set a standard for care, respect and inclusion, supporting people with intellectual disabilities and their families every day across County Longford. Each of the recipients reflects the very best of community spirit in our county.”
The Chief Executive extended thanks to Longford County Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Garry Murtagh for leading this important initiative and to all those involved in organising the awards including Meetings Administrator Lorraine McKee and members of the corporate team at Longford County Council.
Meetings Administrator Lorraine McKee said, “Congratulations to all award recipients. We are delighted to recognise the valuable contribution made by all of you in communities throughout County Longford. You have given your time, energy, dedication, and passion to making our communities more inclusive, vibrant, and connected.”
