Mr. Pat Connolly of Wellpark, Galway City has been recognised this week in Leinster House as an outstanding role model for an active and inspirational life.

Senator Mary White - who's brainchild is the Inspirational Life Awards - said at the event that Mr. Connolly 'is the kind of character that will get Ireland onwards and upwards; working for his community and an understanding of the vulnerable and the less fortunate.  There is much talk of 'the economy', but what is far more important is 'our society'; and Pat's actions have shown the value of that".  Galway City Cllr Terry O'Flaherty also paid gratitude to her fellow Galwegian.

A keen fundraiser and active participant in many of the events he has undertaken, there appears to be no slowing down for Pat. Pat - who was nominated by Tipperary man, Tom Harrington - continues to be an active member of the Lions Club, recently leading a Suicide Prevention Campaign and providing training to over 1500 people on the issue.

Pictured at the presentation of the Certificate are Pat Connolly  and his wife, Cecelia, Tom Harrington, Senator Mary White, Cllr. Terry O'Flaherty and Claire O'Flaherty.