Voluntary effort continues to be the backbone and strength of rural communities. This was plainly obvious at the Paddy Fitzgerald awards on Sunday night when nine people from across Munster were honoured for their unpaid contribution to helping their fellow farmers, neighbours and communities.

It’s good to publicly acknowledge this work, good to showcase the voluntary commitment to communities and good to remind people that vibrant communities don’t just happen by accident.

Paddy Ryan from Cappamore was the overall winner. He struck a chord when he said that, for him, community was an extension of his family. And like a family, community is something to be protected, nurtured and cared for, especially now when it is being denuded of many essential services.

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Unlike many farming events, this was a night for celebration and a night to thank people for their voluntary work in the presence of their family and peers.

Congratulations to all involved.