Two Clare natives who both taught in Lackagh parish were honoured at the Galway People of the Year awards last weekend.
One who is long retired and made a massive contribution to his community and the other still making a significant contribution.
Joe Collins and Joe Kennelly were both honoured for their work in vastly different spheres at a gala banquet in the Galway Bay Hotel last week.
Joe Kennelly who is the principal of Cregmore National School was honoured along with his colleague Dermot O’Neill for their contribution to Gentle Swimmers in Galway and many years of of voluntary work.
Joe Collins received his award for his promotion of traditional music over many years, not alone in his native Lackagh, but around the world.
Joe Collins who is a native of Carron in Co. Clare, came to teach in Lackagh National School in the mid 1960’s and shortly after his arrival set about teaching traditional music to the children.
He started a school band – and over the years a succession of traditional musicians that Joe Collins introduced brought delight to many people.
Many awards were captured by the musicians taught by Joe Collins over many years but the highlight of his achievement was to see his school band capture All Ireland honours at the All Ireland Fleadh.
Several years ago Joe was honoured by Connacht Comhaltas Coeltoiri Eireann as one of the select few to be chosen to receive a specially commissioned Comhaltas medallion in recognition of his contribution to the support and development of traditional heritage and culture on its golden anniversary.
