27th June 2025.
A very special evening was held in the community hall Newcastle on Wednesday evening the 25th of June. Newcastle CFR and the National Ambulance Service came together to honour one of Newcastle CFR’s longest serving members Larry Doocey.
Larry has been with Newcastle CFR since its foundation and in that time has trained as CFRC,CFRA,First Aid Responder and currently Emergency First Responder EFR, throughout this time Larry assists the callout coordinator with training and training scenarios in order to help and progress the group and has never missed one meeting or training since the group was set up.
The night was opened by Mr. Donal Lonergan Education and Competency Assurance Officer National Ambulance Service, Donal thanked Larry for his exemplary record and dedication and commitment to Newcastle CFR.
Mr Patrick McCarthy Community Engagement Officer National Ambulance Service thanked Larry for his exceptional dedication and commitment to Newcastle CFR and the people of Newcastle and the surrounding areas.
The group were joined via video message by Mr Ger O’Dea Community Engagement Manager National Ambulance Service ,he thanked Larry for his unwayvering commitment and tireless dedication to Newcastle CFR ,he also thanked the Newcastle CFR group whos commitment and hard work he said has undoubtedly saved lives,he thanked them sincerely for their assistance to the National Ambulance Service.
Larry was then presented with the Special Recognition Award and certificate by Mr.Donal lonergan and Mr. Pat McCarthy on behalf of the National Ambulance Service to rapturous applause from all present.
Seán Byrne Chairman/Callout Coordinator Newcastle CFR welcomed all present including Mr.Donal Lonergan Education and Competency Assurance Officer National Ambulance Service ,Mr Pat McCarthy Community Engagement Officer National Ambulance Service ,Chris O’Donovan Chairman/Callout Coordinator Cork City missing persons and his wife Ber, Jim O’Brien Chairman/Callout coordinator Ballyporeen/Skeheenarinky CFR and his wife Margaret and Jim Freeman photographer. He also welcomed Joan Doocey Larrys wife and Kathryn Moran close family friend.
Seán congratulated larry on his award and thanked him for his assistance and commitment and constant dedication to Newcastle CFR ,Seán then presented Larry with an award in recognition of his achievements on behalf of Newcastle CFR and Marian O’Dwyer treasurer Newcastle CFR presented Joan Doocey with a bouquet of flowers from the group. Seán thanked all those that attended and helped in any way to make the night so special, Ciara Lonergan for the beautiful cake and the night ended with refreshments and baking provided by Newcastle CFR members.
Thank you Larry for your dedication and commitment to Newcastle CFR and the people in our Community.
