Nominations open for annual Garda awards

The Louth and Mid Louth Garda National Youth Awards have been launched, with nominations now being sought for the 2024 awards.

The Garda Youth Awards, at Divisional and National level, celebrates outstanding young people aged between 13 and 21 years, and recognises the good work they are doing throughout their communities.

The first ever Garda Divisional Youth Awards was created by a local Juvenile Liaison Officer in West Cork in 1995. He noticed that the young people in the community were doing tremendous things which deserved recognition. The awards has grown in leaps and bounds since then.

In 2019, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris launched the first ever An Garda Síochána National Youth Awards saying “The inaugural Garda National Youth Awards will be a showcase for the positive contribution young people are making in their communities. The awards at national and divisional level are a great way for Gardaí to develop strong relationships with community groups and young people in their area.”

Categories for Divisional and National Awards Individual Award Making a positive contribution to their community, making it a better place to live. Group Award

Group of two or more, making a positive contribution to their community, making it a better place to live. Special Achievement Award Overcome difficult circumstances, defied all the odds and whose commitment deserves recognition. Community Safety Award Through a crime prevention or safety initiative/innovation, have made their community a safer place to live.

Winners of Divisional Awards are submitted to the national judging panel who select five winners in each category. Details of when and where the National Awards is due to take place is to be confirmed.

Entry forms can be got from any Garda or Centra Stores to be returned by May 7, 2024.