Limerick volunteers receive nominations for Irish Red Cross National Awards
Volunteers from Limerick City and East Limerick recognised for their outstanding community service
IRISH Red Cross volunteers from across Limerick are being recognised for their outstanding community service, with six volunteers shortlisted for an Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Award 2026.
Representing Limerick City and East Limerick branches, the nominees have been recognised for their contributions to first aid training, emergency response, youth development and community support.
Limerick's six shortlisted nominees are:
Niall Healy, shortlisted nominee Instructor of the Year - Limerick City branch
Niall has been involved in teaching with the Irish Red Cross for more than 12 years, helping volunteers of all ages develop essential first aid skills.
He has served as Limerick City Branch Youth Officer since 2021 and holds regional youth leadership responsibilities across Limerick and the West of Ireland.
Amy O'Dwyer, shortlisted nominee Newcomer of the Year - East Limerick
Since joining East Limerick Branch two years ago, Amy has progressed from a novice member completing her First Aid Response training to a trusted volunteer undertaking ambulance duties locally and nationally.
She has provided medical cover at major events, including Electric Picnic, where her dedication and professionalism have earned praise from fellow volunteers.
Elisa Sanchis Arderius, shortlisted nominee Newcomer of the Year - Limerick City
Since joining Limerick City Branch in December 2025, Elisa has made an exceptional contribution to first aid duties, youth development and community engagement.
Having previously been involved with Spanish Red Cross Youth, she quickly became a youth leader in Limerick, helping teach novice members aged 16 to 18 and supporting other youth groups when needed.
Cathal Flannery, shortlisted nominee Volunteer of the Year– Limerick City
A Limerick City Branch volunteer since 2018, Cathal is an Emergency Medical Technician and instructor who has helped train countless volunteers in first aid and emergency response.
He has held leadership roles including Emergency First Responder Unit Officer and Training Officer, while also supporting ambulance duties and patient transport services, including journeys for patients attending Milford Care Centre.
Leo Armstrong, shortlisted nominee Young Volunteer of the Year– East Limerick
At just 14 years old, Leo has already made a strong impression since joining East Limerick Branch in 2026.
His positive attitude, willingness to learn and growing confidence have made him a valued member of the group and a promising representative of the next generation of Irish Red Cross volunteers.
Amelia Protasiuk, shortlisted nominee Young Volunteer of the Year– Limerick City
Amelia has been involved in Irish Red Cross youth activities since September 2024 and became a Limerick City Branch member in June 2026.
She has enthusiastically participated in youth events, including the Youth Challenge and Area Youth Competitions, where she took part as a member of a first aid team.
Irish Red Cross volunteers give one million minutes of their time every month helping people and communities across Ireland, from responding to medical emergencies to supporting communities affected by storms, flooding and other crises.
The Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards recognise the exceptional contributions of volunteers across eight categories: Volunteer of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year, Community Support Volunteer of the Year, First Aid Unit Member of the Year, Instructor of the Year, Branch of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Lifetime Achievement and Special Status Award.
Deirdre Garvey, secretary general, Irish Red Cross, said, "Congratulations to all our volunteers who have been shortlisted for an award. Volunteers are the beating heart of the Irish Red Cross. They give exceptional service to their communities and truly are inspirational.
“Our National Volunteer Awards are an opportunity for us to publicly acknowledge all that they give and say 'thank you'. I wish all those shortlisted a wonderful day at the awards ceremony at the end of the month.”
The Limerick nominees will join volunteers from across Ireland at the Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards ceremony in Croke Park Hotel on Saturday, November 28, where this year's award winners will be announced.