Nominations are being sought for this year's Kilkenny Garda Youth Awards

Communities across Kilkenny and Carlow are being encouraged to nominate young people aged between 13 and 21 years, who have made significant contributions to their communities or shown remarkable determination in their own lives, for the 2024 Divisional Garda Youth Awards.

Run by the Kilkenny/Carlow Garda Division, the awards are proudly sponsored by the Carlow-based security company, Netwatch, and supported by Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils. The deadline for entries is May 12, 2024.

There are four categories for the 2024 awards: Individual Award, Group Award (for two or more young people), Special Achievement Award and Community Safety Award. The Divisional awards will be assessed by a judging panel, and one nominee in each category will then go through to the National Garda Youth Awards, to be held later in 2024.
Community members may nominate individuals or groups by submitting an application form found on Kilkenny/Carlow Garda Facebook page to Kilkennycarlow.garda
youthawards@garda.ie or to the Juvenile Liaison Officer at Kilkenny or Carlow Garda Stations.

Netwatch Managing Director Colin Hayes said that the company is thrilled to be sponsoring the awards.

“We are delighted to support the Kilkenny and Carlow Awards showcasing young people who make their communities a better place, or have shown fortitude and resolve. The awards are a great opportunity to recognise that a lot of good work is being done by young people throughout Kilkenny and Carlow on a daily basis, which speaks to the Netwatch mission; to create a fearless environment, and I’m sure we will hear more outstanding nominations in 2024.”

Last year, two national awards were given to Carlow locals: twin sisters Sarah and Rachel Bello from Carlow who despite having a rare, incurable and painful blood disorder, have shown great determination and tremendous contributing to their community through volunteering and many initiatives.

Another very worthy garda youth award recipient was 17-year-old Miley Doran, also from Carlow, who was fishing at the River Barrow when he saw a child and her mother struggling in the water. After the child fell in, her mother tried to rescue her, but neither could swim, and brave Miley saved both.

The awards were originally launched in 2019 to highlight the resilience, compassion, and community spirit exhibited by young individuals. Whether through acts of kindness, leadership, or perseverance, these young individuals demonstrate their commitment to improving the world around them and inspire others to foster a culture of positivity and support within the two counties.

People are encouraged to submit entries and more information can be found at your local garda station.