GAA legend and Carers Association patron Nick O’Dwyer today called the recession a “good thing” for its potential to renew society’s focus on vulnerable people forgotten during economic boom years.
Speaking at the national Carers of the Year Awards at Dublin's Westbury Hotel, Mr O'Dwyer called for a social responsibility revival. "The whole system in our society is crazy in my opinion. We're supposed to be a Christian country but it's all about money," he said.
The awards, now in their fifth year, recognise Ireland's 161,000 carers who dedicate more than 3.7 million hours to their families each week. Awards
Paddy (70) and Anne (74) Peppard from Trim, Co Meath, who have been caring for their son Leslie for 38 years, were awarded Overall Carers of the Year Award. A car knocked down Leslie when he was aged four and left him with physical and mental disabilities.
The couple also cared for six other children who had cystic fibrosis before they died. Mrs Peppard said the award was a wonderful gift for their 50th wedding anniversary this week.
Mr Peppard said: "Lesley has to be taken care of 24 hours a day. You have to do all the work you have to do with a baby with a man. It's really sad but he's my son and it's a pleasure to do it for him."
Maria Maher (19) from Ballincollig, Co Cork received the Young Carer of the Year Award. She has been supporting her wheelchair-bound mother Mary and three mildly disabled siblings while her father works away since she was 12. Maria combines washing, dressing and cooking with a food science degree at UCC.
She said the experience has made her more aware of other people's needs. "I'm happy I can do this for my Mum so she has a full life. She has brought us up well," she said.
Her mother said Maria leads a different life to her peers and puts her family’s care first. “Maria does all her caring and studies without complaining but I know it is hard on her to cope with so much so young,” Mrs Maher said.
Regional awards were given to Anne Kinsella (Munster), Mary McDonagh (Connacht-Ulster) and Nicky Harris (Dublin).
Ms Harris has been caring for her daughter Cloe since a car crash that also killed her mother. She called for a national school programme of civic rights and duties. "We have an amazing amount of people who love other people in this country and as a country we can do an amazing amount of work," she said.
Minister for Older People Áine Brady paid tribute to all the carers. "At some stage in all our lives we will be receiving care. At some stage in our lives we will happen to be giving care in one form or another. But most of us don't have to face the reality that this is an experience, if not ours at them moment, that we will have some day," she said.
"It is inspiring to see the dedication and commitment shown by carers on a day-to-day basis as they care for the people they love with dignity and respect."