Memorial concert in honour of dedicated Waterford volunteer 

Carmel Nairn gave more than 30 years to both organisations before her death in February 2024
Memorial concert in honour of dedicated Waterford volunteer 

Pictured at City Hall for the launch of a memorial concert in honour of Waterford volunteer Carmel Nairn, the concert will be held on Saturday 16th May at Christ Church Cathedral. All Photos: Joe Evans

Two Waterford charities that were close to Carmel Nairn’s heart are coming together to honour her memory with a special concert this May.

The Waterford and South Kilkenny Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland and the Waterford Viking Branch of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind launched details this week of the Carmel Nairn Memorial Concert, celebrating the life of a woman who gave more than 30 years to both organisations before her death in February 2024.

Pictured at City Hall for the launch of a memorial concert in honour of Waterford volunteer Carmel Nairn. Pictured with the Mayor of Waterford City & County Cllr Seamus Ryan are Margaret Mulligan, representing the Waterford and South Kilkenny Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland, and Edward McBride, representing Waterford Viking Branch of the Irish Guide Dogs. 
Pictured at City Hall for the launch of a memorial concert in honour of Waterford volunteer Carmel Nairn. Pictured with the Mayor of Waterford City & County Cllr Seamus Ryan are Margaret Mulligan, representing the Waterford and South Kilkenny Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland, and Edward McBride, representing Waterford Viking Branch of the Irish Guide Dogs. 

The launch event took place on Tuesday, February 17, with Carmel’s family, the memorial concert committee, some members from both organisations, MC Rody Keighery, Sarah McGowan and Oliver Carroll, alongside Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Seamus Ryan.

Mayor Cllr Ryan said, “Carmel was a remarkable woman, as generous as she was compassionate. 

Pictured at City Hall for the launch of a memorial concert in honour of Waterford volunteer Carmel Nairn.
Pictured at City Hall for the launch of a memorial concert in honour of Waterford volunteer Carmel Nairn.

"Her legacy of helping improve the lives of so many people will endure. 

"Carmel left a lasting impression on the people who were fortunate enough to encounter her.” 

Pictured at City Hall for the launch of the memorial concert.
Pictured at City Hall for the launch of the memorial concert.

The concert will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 7:00pm in Christ Church Cathedral, Waterford. The evening will feature a variety of musical acts; a fitting tribute to Carmel, who was always first to support any community event.

All proceeds from the concert will support the work of both charities.

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