In Pictures: Donegal County Council employees presented with commemorative coin

Donegal County Council is delighted to announce that, in recognition of its recent success at national level, a special commemorative coin will be presented to all Council employees - past and present and elected Members, honouring their vital contribution to this outstanding achievement. Please click on the arrows to go through the gallery


Milford presentations. Presentation of a special commemorative coin to Donegal County Council Management, Elected Members and Staff in each of the Area Offices in celebration of winning Council of the Year 2025 at the LAMA (Local Authority Members Association) All-Ireland Community and Council Awards

Retirees received this special coin for their contribution to the development of the Council’s culture of service, and who have been central to the current day recognitions of the council as part of the national awards.

As previously reported, Donegal County Council was named Council of the Year at the 2025 LAMA (Local Authority Members Association) All-Ireland Community and Council Awards. This prestigious accolade highlights the Council’s commitment to innovation, service delivery, and community collaboration. The LAMA Awards set a national benchmark for excellence in local government and shine a spotlight on the positive impact that councils have on the lives of the people they serve.

This latest honour builds on the Council’s growing reputation for excellence and follows a similar achievement in 2024, when Donegal County Council was awarded Local Authority of the Year at the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards. 

Speaking about the significance of the award and the commemorative coin, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Niamh Kennedy, and Chief Executive, John G. McLaughlin, issued a joint statement: “We are delighted to present this special commemorative coin.  This coin symbolizes our sincere appreciation for your commitment and the lasting impact you have made on our organization and community. Your contributions are a significant part of our shared narrative, and we celebrate them together.

“This remarkable achievement is not just a testament to our current efforts; it also reflects the dedication and hard work of everyone who has been part of our journey - both current and former staff members and our Elected Members. Each of you has played a crucial role in shaping our success and fostering the strong community spirit we value today.”

Fittingly, the announcement coincides with Your Council Day, June 27, a national initiative that celebrates the essential services delivered by local authorities and the people who make them happen. It’s a timely opportunity to highlight the breadth and impact of the Council’s work, and to acknowledge the professionalism, commitment and care shown by staff every day.

Donegal County Council delivers over 1,000 vital services that affect every aspect of life in the county. These include street cleaning, road maintenance, housing services, town and rural planning, community support, dog wardenship, fire and emergency services, arts and heritage programmes, tourism development, and the management of parks and recreational spaces.

These services don’t just happen - they are made possible by the dedication, experience and innovation of staff across the organisation, from those working behind the scenes in planning and administration to those delivering essential services on the ground. 

The commemorative coin is a small but meaningful gesture - recognising the legacy of staff contributions and reinforcing the Council’s appreciation for the role every individual has played in reaching this milestone. 

Read more on the contributions of operational staff to Donegal County Council’s recent achievements 

.