‘Awards a celebration of spirit of our county’ – An Cathaoirleach Aoife Davitt

Cllr Aoife Davitt, cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council, looked around the room when she was giving the welcoming address at the Westmeath Examiner Community and Sports Awards, and admitted to being distracted. She normally doesn’t when she’s speaking she said, but “there are so many people in the audience that catch my eye, and I think ‘absolutely’, and I’m nodding…” Those she was looking at were the volunteers and organisers who put in huge time and effort for clubs and organisations across north Westmeath and she was thinking to herself that they definitely deserve recognition.

In her address, she said: “Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, nominees and award winners, it is a great honour to be here this evening on behalf of Westmeath County Council, who are proud to sponsor the Westmeath Examiner Community and Sports Awards.

“These awards are a true celebration of the spirit of our county – recognising not only sporting excellence, but as Josephine [Hughes, Mullingar Park Hotel, who had spoken beforehand] mentioned, they also recognise the selfless commitment of individuals and groups who give so much to their communities.

“They remind us that success is not only measured in trophies or medals, but also in the hours of dedication, the spirit of teamwork, and the willingness to support one another.

“Our partnership with the Westmeath Examiner in hosting these awards reflects the council’s deep commitment to fostering pride of place. We believe that when we highlight and honour the work of volunteers, athletes, coaches, and community leaders, we inspire others to get involved, to participate, and to make Westmeath an even better place to live.

“Tonight is about celebrating people who make a difference – those who represent the very best of who we are.

“On behalf of WCC, I want to congratulate all of the nominees and winners and their families. You are shining examples of what community spirit and determination can achieve, and you are role models for the generations to come.

“Thank you, and enjoy the evening.”