People of the Year Awards 2011
Now in its 37th year, the People of the Year Awards provide a unique opportunity for the Irish public to honour those who have made a real difference to people's lives, whether as unsung heroes or as household names.
This year's Awards will honour the truly inspirational, courageous and talented people within our society at a glittering Awards presentation ceremony in the Citywest Hotel on Saturday, 10th September 2011. The ceremony will be hosted by RTÉ's Gráinne Seoige and broadcast live on RTÉ One. The People of the Year Awards are organised by Rehab and sponsored by QUINN-healthcare.
The Awards
The People of the Year Awards truly are Ireland's answer to a national honours system. Each year, members of the public are called upon to nominate people who have enhanced the quality of life in Ireland or internationally, increased civic pride or, through acts of bravery, have touched the lives of the community. Winners are finalised by a panel of adjudicators. The Awards were established in 1975 and have been televised live on RTÉ since 1983.
The 2011 People of the Year Award winners are:
AJ McCullough - People of the Year Award winner
For his quick thinking under pressure and his bravery in coming to the rescue of the Attah family.
Skerries Community - Community Group of the Year
For showing the power of community spirit during immense tragedy and difficulty and for helping two families to properly begin grieving for their loved ones.
Jackie Kelly - Young Person of the Year
For her maturity, strength and motivation in the face of adversity.
Ronan Kerr - People of the Year Award winner (Posthumous)
For the enormous bravery and commitment he showed in both his community and in his service to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
Edith Wilkins - International Person of the Year
For her compassion, selflessness and unfaltering commitment to improving the lives of the people of India.
Tall Ships Festival Waterford 2011 - People of the Year Award winner
For the enormous voluntary and community effort that led to a hugely successful festival.
Rory McIlroy - Sports Person of the Year
For his inspiring determination, his talent and hard work leading to outstanding achievements on a world stage at a young age.
Joan Freeman - People of the Year Award winner
For her commitment and dedication to self-harm and suicide prevention through the work of Pieta House.
Sharon Malloy - Special Category, Best Friend of the Year
For going far beyond the call of duty to help and support a friend.
Irish Cricket Team - People of the Year Award winner
For being proud ambassadors for Ireland, showing courage and unfaltering determination under pressure.
For more information on the People of the Year Awards, including previous winners, visit www.peopleoftheyear.com
Rehab
Rehab is a leading non-governmental organisation which works towards a world where every person has the opportunity to achieve their potential. Over 3,500 Rehab staff members provide high-quality health and social care, training and education, and rehabilitation, employment and commercial services in Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, the Netherlands and Poland.
The people who currently use Rehab services include young people and adults with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities, people with mental health difficulties, people with autism and people with an acquired brain injury. A range of essential services is also provided to older people, carers and others who are marginalised. Every year, more than 43,000 people and their families benefit from the supports provided by Rehab in almost 250 locations. For more information see www.rehab.ie
QUINN-healthcare
Based in Co. Cork, QUINN-healthcare has a wealth of experience in the healthcare market, and has earned a reputation for professionalism and expertise in providing healthcare solutions to both individuals and companies. The company has gone from strength to strength through its commitment to excellent customer service, the many new benefits that have been introduced and by continuing to provide the best value health insurance in the market. For more information see www.quinn-healthcare.com
