GAA MANAGER and Carers Association patron Mick 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.
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 Leslie down 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. Ms 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 since she was 12. Maria combines washing, dressing and cooking with her studies in food science at UCC. She said the experience had 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 led a different life to her peers and put 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,” Ms Maher said.
Regional awards were given to Anne Kinsella (Munster), Mary McDevitt (Connacht-Ulster) and Nicky Harris (Dublin).
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,” 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.”