No provision to mark South Kildare clubs' success with ceremony
Cllr Leigh described 2025 as “a standout year for sport in south Kildare”
DISCUSSION over the possibility of recognising the sporting achievements of clubs in south Kildare have been held, after a successful year for the region.
At the most recent meeting of Athy Municipal District, cllr Mark Leigh motioned “that Athy Municipal District (MD) acknowledges the teams and individuals whose achievements made it an outstanding year for sport in South Kildare.”
A report issued in response to cllr Leigh’s motion by the meetings administrator from Kildare County Council stated: “The protocol for ceremonial functions and civic honours sets out the procedure for affording recognition to an individual or group.
"There is no provision therein to commemorate several groups and individuals simultaneously, as envisaged in the motion. Informally, the cathaoirleach and members offer such congratulations at the commencement of municipal district meetings. These are recorded in the minutes.”
Cllr Leigh described 2025 as “a standout year for sport in south Kildare”, mentioning the successes of Athy GAA, Grangenolvin GAA, Clonmullion FC, Athy RFC and Athy Town AFC.
The motion was seconded by cllr Brian Dooley and was also supported by Cllr Veralouise Behan.
Cathaoirleach Ivan Keatley, a St Laurence’s GAA club man, noted the successes of his club in ladies' football and camogie in 2025.
Cllr Dooley said that he wanted more facilities for sport in the area, mentioning the importance of the public knowing that the elected members and council are planning ahead. He added that he wanted more young people involved in sport in the area, and also noted that sporting success can bring a strain on resources.
Cllr Behan said it is “a wonderful problem to have” and asked if there could be a miscellaneous fund set aside for recognition of the sporting achievements of local clubs.
Cllr Keatley indicated that a further discussion would be had in an attempt to “get something sorted” before the next municipal district meeting.
