At an event to recognise outstanding young leaders in the rural youth organisation, Macra na Feirme, three winners were awarded National Leadership Awards, sponsored by ABP Food Group. The announcement was made on Tuesday 7 February at a special reception at the Castleknock Hotel, Dublin.

The winners are:

  • Patrick McCarthy, Caheragh Macra, Carbery, Co Cork.
  • Cara O’Mahony, Naas Macra, Co Kildare.
  • James Barber, Rathdowney Macra, Co Laois.

    • The other finalists are:

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  • Deirdre Kennedy, Sligo Town Macra, Co Sligo.
  • Padraig O’Driscoll, Kilmeen Macra, Carbery, Co Cork.
  • Colm Taylor, Clonoulty/ Rossmore Macra, Co Tipperary.

    • Macra na Feirme national president Seán Finan said: “Congratulations to this year’s National Leadership Award winners. This competition recognises the hard work and commitment of our young leaders who play a major role in our organisation and who often go on to hold positions in other national organisations. Dating back to 1982, previous winners of the competition include current Government ministers and business leaders. I would also like to thank ABP Food Group for their support of these awards and for helping to make this night a memorable one for all involved.’’

    Skills

    The National Leadership Awards recognise the leadership skills of Macra members within their clubs and the wider community. The competition raises the level and standard of leadership in Macra and provides an incentive for the development of club programmes.

    This year’s six finalists were judged by a panel including Elaine Farrell, Oireachtas liaison executive at the IFA; Sean Eustace former Macra na Feirme president (1975 to 77); and Steve Hardcastle of ABP Food Group.

    The three winners were presented with specially commissioned commemorative trophies.