Volvo Ocean Race organiser John Killeen is to be honoured by NUI Galway this June with an honorary doctorate.

The Let’s Do It Ireland Chairman, who was responsible for bringing the hugely successful Volvo Ocean Race to Galway, is on a list that includes  Seán Ó’hUiginn, the Irish diplomat and former Ambassador to the US and Germany, VHI chairman Bernard Collins, and Anne Maria Dennison, head of the Irish Countrywoman’s Association.

The ceremony will take place on Friday June 25^th.

Killeen is also CEO of the Colas Group, chairman of the Galway Docklands Redevelopment Committee and a former president of the Academy of Engineering and the Institution of Engineers of Ireland.

East Wall Sailing Group was honoured with a Lord Mayor's Award today for its considerablye contribution to Dublin life. The group introduced 5,000 people to sailing and watersports from its sailing centre off Alfie Byrne Road last year, and has developed a range of new programmes through its new website www.eastwallsailing.com.

Since its inauguration in 1989 these awards honour individuals and groups who have made a special contribution to Dublin and its citizens.  The awards are an annual event and are Dublin City’s way of saying ‘thank you’ to people who make a difference.

“It is an honour for me to present the individuals and groups here today with an Award.  Their commitment, dedication and tireless efforts to their causes and their zest and love of life, have without doubt, enriched and enhanced our City.  Tonight is my way of thanking the recipients on behalf of myself and the people of Dublin for their remarkable contribution to our society.  I congratulate them on their achievements and wish them all the best for their future endeavours” said the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Emer Costello.

The East Wall Water Sports Group is a voluntary organisation based in East Wall Water Sports Centre on Alfie Byrne Road, Dublin 3.  It introduces children and young people to rowing, sailing and kayaking.  The group receives its award for encouraging thousands of young people to foster a love of the water and water sports from across Dublin city and in acknowledgement of Joe Teeling’s founding vision. Paul Dolan was there to receive the award on their behalf.