Awards for long service in healthcare

A CEREMONY took place at St Columcille’s Hospital in Loughlinstown last Thursday, to acknowledge those people with long service of 30 years or more working in healthcare with the HSE.

There were 17 recipients and those at the awards ceremony last Thursday were presented with certificates by Professor Donal O’Shea.

The awards were presented to people working in a whole range of disciplines, including nurses, household attendants, clerical officers, catering managers, speech and language managers and others in the hospital environment.

It was the first one at the hospital, and the first of many they hope. A spokeswoman said that this is being incorporated part of the ‘Great Place to Work’ initiative, showing appreciation for those dedicated and committed people who have delivered such sterling service over the decades.

General manager Linda O’Leary said a few words of congratulations and thanks to everyone. She remarked that so often, there are celebrations when a person retires. It should also be common, she said, to celebrate those still working away.

There was tea and refreshments after the handing out of awards.