Commissioner attends DSPCA Awards

25th June 2012

The specially commissioned commemorative silver medals were awarded to Gda Donal Lucey (Rtd), Gda Stephen Neylon, Sgt William Kirwan, Gda Adrian Egan, Gda Jerome Tully and Gda Fiona Tighe  who have  all shown bravery and foresight whilst working alongside Dublin SPCA Inspectors Tony McGovern and Liam Kinsella in investigating and initiating prosecutions to appalling acts of animal cruelty.

The event was a platform to show the country’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity’s gratitude and long standing excellent working relationship with the members of An Garda Síochána and to thank them for their continued support in combating cruelty to all animals.

Guests invited to mark this historical ceremony, the like of which the Society believes has not occurred since 1931 when Gda M. McDonald, Gda J.Corcoran, Sgt P. Gunning and Gda M. McDonagh were all awarded the much admired silver medal; were Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan, Garda Chief Michael O’Sullivan and Superintendent Thomas Murphy as well as Deputies Olivia Mitchell and Peter Mathews.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister noted that “It is not the first role that comes to mind when one considers the work of An Garda Síochána, yet our force are very much involved in the cracking down on cruelty against animals.  The Garda members and ex-member here before us have all been involved in bringing to justice those involved in what can only be described as truly horrific instances of disregard for animal welfare. These medals honour their work which has really taken them above and beyond the call of duty.”

Each year, the Dublin SPCA call centre receives over 90,000 calls from concerned members of the public regarding animals in distress. Every animal welfare emergency response operation commences with endless hours of research, resource and intelligence gathering, collaboration and ground work. Then there’s the actual rescue itself which can be as exhausting as it is harrowing. But, in the end it’s our love of animals and the dedication of the staff, volunteers, fosterers and supporters who all help us complete our mission; ensuring every adoptable animal has a safe haven in which to rest their heads and receives the love and care they so desperately desire and deserve.

Brian Gillen, CEO, Dublin SPCA said today; “It’s a fantastic day for everyone involved.  According to what we can ascertain from our records, the last time one of these silver medals was awarded to a guard was in 1931. These  Gardai are receiving their medals today because the Dublin SPCA wishes to acknowledge their co-operation and assistance whenever it was required; also for their distinguished exertions in promoting the cause of humanity and prosecuting offenders being presented to them.”