Presentation by the Members of Westmeath County Council to Mr Christy
Cooney, President of the GAA
In a presentation to the Elected Representatives of Westmeath County Council at their monthly meeting held on 21st March the GAA Development Officers provided details of their intensive work at grassroots level in the county, in Primary and Secondary Schools, in Clubs and in the Community that has resulted in vastly improved standards and increased playing numbers particularly in Mullingar and Athlone but also throughout Westmeath, as well as promoting Social Inclusion through specific and targeted initiatives.
Westmeath County Council continues to work in partnership with the GAA Leinster Council to co-fund the work of the Development Officers within the county, since 2008.
The GAA Leinster Council through its development model seeks to increase participation in Gaelic Games in local communities, to develop emerging talent and to educate coaches and volunteers in relation to best practice.
The work of the Development Officers in conjunction with established structures including the Local Sports Partnership, Primary and Post Primary Schools, Juvenile Clubs and Residents Groups has resulted in many key target communities in Westmeath benefiting from the implementation of the extensive GAA programmes and initiatives over the last 3 years.
Also in attendance at the Council meeting was Mr. Christy Cooney, President of the GAA, Mr. Tom Farrell, County Chairman, Pat Lynagh, County Secretary, Mr. Noel Delaney, Games Manager and Mr. Michael McHugh, Secretary of the Minor Board.
The members congratulated everyone involved and warmly welcomed the presentation, acknowledging the importance of the work being undertaken and expressing continuing support for the initiative. The GAA President, Christy Cooney, in addressing the members, thanked the Council for their continuing support for the work of the Development Officers in Westmeath.
On behalf of the Members of Westmeath County Council the Cathaoirleach, Cllr Michael Dollard, presented a Letter of Recognition to Mr Christy Cooney to record their appreciation for his achievement as Uachtaráin, Cumann Lúthchleas Gael and to mark the occasion of Mullingar hosting the GAA National Congress 2011.