Carers Concert not just about funds, says local branch manager

Caroline Poole, manager at the local branch of Family Carers Ireland, the benefactors of the Mullingar Carers Concert fundraiser, is looking forward to this year’s event, on March 31 in the Greville Arms Hotel.

“The whole idea is to raise awareness of the support they actually need and also to raise funds so that we can continue to provide support and services,” said Caroline.

“We’re really excited and everybody’s really grateful that the concert is ongoing.

“It was started 20-odd years ago by Billy Mac and we acknowledge Billy and all the posters say ‘inspired by Billy Mac’, because Billy is an inspiration.”

Billy stepped down as main organiser and passed on the baton to Camillus Egerton and Chris Loughrey, who took over for last year’s concert.

“We’re so grateful to all of the talented musicians and artists who are kind enough to give their time to us again this year,” said Caroline.

“They recognise family care, and the work of family carers, since they’re the backbone of Irish society.

“We really appreciate the support they give, so we have a future. We’re all excited and we’re all buzzing.”

The money raised by the concert goes directly to ensuring carers continue to do their work throughout the county.

“The funds that are raised are hugely important to family carers because they enable us to continue to provide the support and services to family carers in the community.”

“Every year it’s so surprising,” said Caroline.

“We’re get together every year so that family carers and the work they deliver in the community are celebrated by the artists, and the community.

“And we’re looking forward this year again to seeing familiar faces and new faces at the concert, it really is uplifting.”

As well as funding, the concert lifts spirits for the carers who work throughout Westmeath.

“It’s important as well for us and for staff morale as the concert continues to be supported, not only by the artists and musicians, but also by the general public, who appreciate what we’re trying to do and support the work we provide to family carers in the community.

“It’s the money and also, it really is the fact that it keeps us going. It’s fantastic.”

Tickets for the show are €20, available through the Greville Arms Hotel or Family Carers Ireland.

The show is on Tuesday March 31; doors open at 7.15pm and the show starts at 7.45pm.