Sail Training Ireland was among three organisations and three individuals recognised by the Lord Mayor of Dublin for their contributions to the city in a special reception last Thursday (30 March).

The sail-training charity funds the development of young people from all backgrounds and all abilities on the island of Ireland by giving them the opportunity to participate on voyages on tall ships.

This experience often has a profound effect on young people’s outlook on life and allows them reach their full potential, providing them with valuable life skills.

Sail Training Ireland received their award in the Round Room at the Mansion House from Lord Mayor Caroline Conroy alongside An Taisce and the Irish Wildlife Trust.

Individuals awarded were Sandra Dillon, founder of The Meeting Place Club, the first integrated group for teens and adults with a wide range of special needs; ultra-endurance athlete Gerard Prendergast; and BAFTA-winning, Oscar-nominated actor Barry Keoghan, who was unable to attend due to filming commitments.

The Lord Mayor’s Award trophy for Sail Training Ireland | Credit: Fennell Photography

Speaking about the Lord Mayor’s Awards, Cllr Conroy said the ceremony “is one of the highlights of my term of office”.

She added: “I have chosen to honour individuals and groups from many different walks of life. They have helped make Dublin a better place through their tireless efforts in the fields of inclusion, health and well-being, the arts, heritage and biodiversity, conservation, and community and family support.

“I congratulate all the recipients and thank them on behalf of the people of Dublin for their contribution to this great city.”

Since 1989, this annual award ceremony is an opportunity for Dublin’s Lord Mayor to highlight and acknowledge, in a special way, achievements of both individuals and groups.

Previous winners of the award include the Ana Liffey Drugs Project, Imelda May, Maeve Binchy, Dave Fanning, Merchants Quay Ireland, Damien Dempsey and Commander Chris Hadfield.