Carlow Gaisce leaders recognised at national event

TWO Gaisce leaders from Carlow were celebrated for their dedication to supporting young people at Dublin Castle on 19 November. Raissa Smyth, from Tullow Community School and Tara O’Sullivan from Presentation College, Carlow were two of 111 President’s Award Leaders (PALs) from all over Ireland celebrated at the event.

PALs work on a voluntary basis supporting, encouraging and guiding young people who undertake their Gaisce Award each year.

Gaisce – The President’s Award is Ireland’s national youth award and is a personal development programme for young people aged 14-25. Over half a million young people have participated in Gaisce since its inception in 1985, and almost 27,000 Gaisce recipients were awarded in 2024.

Those honoured represent a variety of organisations that work with Gaisce, including post-primary schools, youth organisations, youth diversion services, disability services, youth justice and prison services.

The organisation announced a new tiered system of Civic Merit Awards for PALs in honour of Gaisce’s 40th anniversary. PALs who have supported young people taking part in the Gaisce programme were presented with the Laoch Award for five years’ service, the Seaimpín Award for ten years’ service, and the Réalta Award for 15 years’ service.

Helen McEntee, then minister for education and youth, noted in her opening address that the programme has “made a huge impact on so many young people who have participated down through the decades”.

“It is inspirational to see so many gathered here today, from schools, third-level institutions, youth services, youth justice services and from all walks of life who support the delivery of the award for young people championing Gaisce nationwide. I want to express my gratitude to all of you who have played a role in making a difference in the lives of young people, through your dedication and commitment. Congratulations on all you have achieved.”