The Carrick-on-Suir branch of the Irish Red Cross recalled a number of highlights at its recent AGM, including the participation of the branch's Youth section in a commercial that was made to mark the Society's 70th birthday.
Other high points were the purchase of a new state of the art ambulance, in December 2008, which is equipped to the highest national standards.
In May last year, the branch held a mass presentation of certificates, first aid demonstration and laun
ch of the Options Programme in the Carraig Hotel, where they were joined by two members of the Austrian Red Cross who were holidaying in Ireland.
The Youth section was kept busy attending the National Challenge day and National Youth Forum, which was attended by President Mary McAleese. The branch also ran a number of courses such as Occupational First Aid, Cardiac First Response and Practical First Aid both internally and for the public. Due to the economic situation the branch decided not to hold normal collections in 2009.
Unit Officer Finola Walsh gave a detailed report on the Unit activities in 2009 . The Unit was called out by the HSE when a nursing home had to be evacuated due to flooding and was put on standby on a number of occasions, especially during the flooding and bad weather. Unit members attended a large number of local duties such as the Carrick Road Runners, Triathlon, Carrick Motor Club and Faugheen Motorbike Club events, Waterford raceway and Highlands Games and assisted other Units as well.
Finola said the branch hopes to have two to three members trained to Emergency Medical Technician and three to four members trained to Emergency First Response level by the end of 2010. Finola thanked all members for their help and support throughout 2009.
Committee for 2010: Chairperson: Margaret O'Dwyer, Vice - Chairperson: Finola Walsh, Treasurer: Mary Lonergan, Secretary: Aisling Wall, P.R.O.: Sarah Dunne, Community Service Officer: Dawn Hanbury, Youth Officer: Sharon Walsh, Committee Members: Joanna Walsh, Nicole Breen, Ellen White, Leigh Walsh, and Breda Breen.
Anyone who is interested in any course, needs First Aid cover or wants to become a member can contact any member of the committee, telephone (087) 9158529 or email carrickredcross@gmail.com
