The dedication and professionalism of Donegal’s frontline service workers was honoured in a special way yesterday for National Services Day.
Socially-distanced celebrations took place across Ireland for the event which shines a light on emergency workers who support and protect local communities every day.
The Covid-19 pandemic especially highlighted the vital duties of frontline workers this year.
Communities across Donegal made some noise as a thank you for that service.
A motorcade made its way through Carrigart and Downings as part of the Mulroy Coast Guard and the Mevagh Fire Brigade’s celebrations. Members of the public tooted their horns and applauded as a show of support for the local services.
Many more Coast Guard Units and emergency services were out in force at stations around Donegal.
In Dublin, the occasion was marked with an Air Corps fly-over of the city centre and a wreath-laying ceremony at Collins Barracks.
Speaking after the events yesterday, Minister for Justice and Equality Helen McEntee TD said: “The demands placed on our emergency workers have perhaps never been greater than this year, as we live through the Covid-19 pandemic. This has been a frightening and uncertain time for all of us. But our emergency workers – despite any private fears they may have had for themselves or their loved ones – have continued to fully perform their duties and have indeed increased their efforts to support the public. We owe them, and their families, a deep debt of gratitude for their outstanding professionalism, dedication and care.”