President Higgins recognises work of Offaly GAA chairman during Covid-19

Post date: Jun 12, 2020 7:55:52 AM

Two-time All-Ireland winner Michael Duignan has received a letter of recognition from President Michael D Higgins for his work as a community champion during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Elected Offaly GAA chairman last December, Duignan has also filled the role as the county's community champion as part of a Covid-19 community outreach programme coordinated by The Wheel and Irish Rural Link and funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development.

In the letter, President Higgins wrote: "You, and all who have been working with you in COVID-19 Community Outreach over the past weeks and months have answered the call of your communities. You have made an enormous difference and are continuing to perform a vital service as we slowly emerge from the dark of the pandemic and into the light of a better, shared future."

There are community champions in 26 counties and they have strong links within their local areas, existing experience of engaging with community organisations and volunteers, and are already in contact with the people that the programme ultimately seeks to support. See www.wheel.ie/champions for more.