Archbishop Clifford, in outlining the life and work of the founder of Muintir, said that Canon Hayes brought people together in a spirit of muintearas and community and that these principles were still the cornerstones of the organisation today. He said that it was important to remember what Canon Hayes had achieved during his lifetime and also the many initiatives that he pioneered while he was at the helm of Muintir na Tíre and as Parish Priest of Bansha/Kilmoyler. The Archbishop said that we must never underestimate the major role that Canon Hayes played in the development of rural Ireland and of his tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for all people in communities throughout the country. The Archbishop also spoke of Canon Hayes' pioneering work with the agricultural community and of his famous Parish Plan for Agriculture. He referred to the many challenges facing the farming community today and particularly that of climate change. Dr. Clifford said that Irish farmers will face risks and challenges when they set about reversing climate change. "They will have to make the same sacrifices as all of us in reducing carbon dioxide emissions from tractors and land rovers. The added challenge of reducing methane and nitrous oxide emissions will be met, I have no doubt, using the best methods known to modern science" said Dr. Clifford.

Archbishop Clifford was joined in the celebration of Mass by Fr. Micheál Hickey, P.P. of Bansha/Kilmoyler and following Mass a wreath was laid at the grave of Canon Hayes by his nephew, Tom Hayes.

In the McGrath GAA Centre afterwards the Managing Director of Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia and Chair of the Taskforce on Active Citizenship spoke of her admiration for the late Canon Hayes. She said that she always had great admiration for Canon Hayes as he was a leader with great enthusiasm, passion, charisma for parish and most importantly he believed in the power of the ordinary person. "He was a pioneer of community development and epitomised active citizenship. He wanted to alter the outlook of people and make them realise their potential and power for good if they would take an interest" she said.

Mrs. Davis added that she also had great admiration for the National President of Muintir, Martin Quinn, whom she said had followed in the footsteps of Canon Hayes and had carried on his tradition of active citizenship, not alone in Muintir na Tíre, but in many many other organisations.

She said that her admiration for Bansha people also extended to the Governor of Mountjoy, John Lonergan who hails from the parish. She said that John is full of enthusiasm, hope and totally optimistic about life. Angela Merkel's father taught her growing up 'Always be more than you appear and never appear to be more than you are'. These words of wisdom remind me of Bansha man John Lonergan she added.