Good Samaritans mark helping to save lives for 50 years in Limerick

Samaritans volunteers with 25 years, or longer, service in Limerick and still going strong: Antoinette, Mairead, Jean, Margaret, Christopher, Gerardine, Catherine, Jim, Tom, Sheila and Brendan

placeholder image — Samaritans volunteers with 25 years, or longer, service in Limerick and still going strong: Antoinette, Mairead, Jean, Margaret, Christopher, Gerardine, Catherine, Jim, Tom, Sheila and Brendan

'With the world changing dramatically over the last 50 years, the Samaritans helpline (116 123) is as vital as ever'

THE PARABLE of the Good Samaritan, told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, illustrates the principle of loving one's neighbour and acting with compassion towards those in need, even if they are not part of one's usual circle.

That is exactly what Samaritans’ volunteers in Limerick have been doing by answering calls for 50 years. The branch was established in 1975, the fourth to open on the island after Dublin, Cork and Belfast.

Lorraine Thornbury, Limerick and Tipperary branch director, said they are busier than ever.

“With the world changing dramatically over the last 50 years, the Samaritans helpline (116 123) is as vital as ever. We are deeply proud of the 115 active volunteers who deliver the service, including Sheila who has been with us since the beginning in 1975.

“We want to thank local people and businesses whose contributions have kept our lights on since 1975. We also thank the thousands of volunteers who have given their time to help our callers get through dark times,” said Ms Thornbury.

To celebrate the milestone, the branch recently held a service awards ceremony for its volunteers. A letter from President Michael D Higgins eloquently expressed the importance of the Samaritans’ service to communities.

“We are particularly grateful to BDO Limerick, Unity Credit Union, SES Water Management, Kirby Group Engineering, H&MV Engineering and SES Shannon Engine Support for their generous donations towards this event.

“Special thanks to Troy Marketing and Shannon Rowing Club for their goodwill in providing their services free of charge. With such strong local support and dedicated volunteers, we look forward to being there for our callers for another 50 years,” said Ms Thornbury.

From their base at 20 Barrington Street, Limerick, volunteers support the public via telephone, email, text and face-to-face calls to the branch.

They also work with schools, colleges and prisons.