‘Permanent honour’ for sports stars Rena and Briege
THE acknowledgement of the spectacular sporting success of both Rena Buckley and Briege Corkery is high on the county council’s agenda.
At the Blarney Macroom district meeting, a letter was circulated by Municipal District Officer Claire O’Neill in which Cllr John Paul O’Shea put forward the motion that the Social Inclusion and Community SPC would ask Cork County Council to explore the possibility of permanently acknowledging the success of Cork’s sportswoman Rena Buckley, who is the only sportsperson – male or female – to win 18 All Ireland medals throughout her sporting career.
Chairing the meeting, Cllr Ted Lucey (FG) said that Briege Corkery would absolutely also be in “the same bracket category” as Rena Buckley and both should be acknowledged.
Cllr Michael Creed (FG) said it was a great honour for the town of Macroom to have Rena working as a physiotherapist. He also felt both should be included in what ever permanent acknowledgement that the council opted on.
Cllr Kevin Conway (Ind) said both women were absolutely deserving of being lauded for everything which they have achieved. “Growing up, Rena lived next door to me for 10 years and I saw her grow up and achieve all that she has. She is a fantastic person,” he said.
Cllr Bob Ryan (FF) said that both Rena and Briege were “excellent beyond the norm” and he said with a smile that, into the bargain, they are “two very decent and fine people.”
Cllr Gobnait Moynihan (FF) said the proposal was a great idea to honour both women.
Claire O’Neill told the councillors that she was presently consulting with Rena and her club, and they are only at the initial stages of what to do but that Briege would also be included in the discussions.