Waterford community groups recognised in City Hall for contribution to St Patrick's Day parade
The Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr.Seamus Ryan presents the Waterford Filipino Irish Community with the 1st Place Overall Entry 2026, included were Sheila Riolo, Gelly Meredith, Fe Fortune, Liberty O'Rourke, Geri Redrizo and Ernesto Tomenio.
Waterford City and County Council recognised the contributions from community groups at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Mayor of Waterford City & County Council, Councillor Seamus Ryan presented the awards in City Hall on Wednesday evening, April 8, and was emphatic in his praise for the community and voluntary sector.
“This year we had over 60 community groups and over 2000 participants in the parade," said Mayor Ryan.
"It was thrilling to see so many enthusiastic parade entrants with colourful costumes, artistic floats and lots of wonderful music on offer as well," he added.
"I commend you all for the effort that went into your preparations for the event."
Mayor Ryan noted the range of diversity and variety of groups taking part, commenting: "We had sports groups, theatre, music and arts and a wide range of new community groups from countries all over the world.”
The evening was hosted to acknowledge participation in the parade and to take time to appreciate the greater contribution to society.
Mayor Ryan highlighted how community and voluntary sector plays a vital role in service provision to many people in Ireland today and those in attendance were told the sector supports the young and the old, the weak and the vulnerable, the marginalised and the disadvantaged.
"The sector also provides invaluable training to our youngsters as they endeavour to fulfil their potential in their various pursuits," said Mayor Ryan.
He also acknowledged this year's Grand Marshall, Dr. Morgan McMonagle, who is a cardiovascular surgeon in University Hospital Waterford.
"Morgan has volunteered his expertise in war zones around the world and is perhaps the greatest example of how important the community and voluntary sector is," said Mayor Ryan.
"Volunteers often become the best role models that young people can aspire to, and that is a priceless asset for anyone to have in their life," he added.
He finished his address to the recipients by commenting: "You provide us with all these things and you do it without charge, selflessly giving your time for the benefit of others. Society truly could not function as it does without you, I congratulate you all and I implore you to keep up the good work.”
