A former Letterkenny-based Garda has been given a bravery award for tackling an armed man and also intervening when a man tried to set himself on fire.
Former Garda Sergeant Cyril Meehan received his award at Farmleigh House from Ceann Comhairle, Seán Ó Fearghaíl on Friday last at the National Bravery Awards.
The awards were given to individuals from across Ireland who risked their own lives to aid others in peril.
Former Garda Meehan intervened to disarm a man brandishing a knife at Waterford Garda Station.
On the evening of 19 February 2001, a man entered the public office of Waterford Garda station brandishing a knife.
The man was aggressive and self-harming and Gardaí were concerned for his safety and the safety of any members of the public who might enter the office.
Garda Noel Power and Sergeant Cyril Meehan tackled the man, who made several attempts to stab them. After a struggle, the Gardaí managed to overpower the man and pinned him back against a wall, disarming him safely before he could hurt himself any further or endanger any members of the public.
For their actions, Garda Noel Power (RIP) and Sergeant Cyril Meehan are each awarded a Certificate of Bravery.
Sergeant Meehan was also given a bravery award for his part in intervening to prevent a man from setting fire to himself at the Quays, Waterford.
In the early hours of 7 June 2002, Gardaí responded to reports of a distressed man on the Quay in Waterford. The man had doused himself in petrol and was threatening to set himself on fire. After attempts to calm the man had been unsuccessful, the man tried to strike his cigarette lighter and the Garda members decided they had to intervene.
Despite the significant risk they faced, they rushed him as a group to prevent him from serious harm. He made several attempts to ignite the lighter but the Gardaí, now soaked in petrol themselves, struggled with him and managed to grab the lighter from his hand before subduing him safely.
The man was later taken to hospital where he was treated and placed under observation.
For their actions, Garda Seamus Ronan, Garda Liam Fitzpatrick, Garda Conor Lucey and Sergeant Cyril Meehan are each awarded a Certificate of Bravery.
Mr Meehan, now retired, continues to live in Letterkenny.
