A Christmas Message from the Mayor of the County of Cork

"On behalf of Cork County Council, I would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  I hope you have a safe and enjoyable break, in the company of your loved ones, but I know our caring Cork County community will also be aware of those less fortunate. I hope we will visit the neighbours who may not see anyone else during the holidays.

In my working life I work throughout the Christmas and New Year period so I would like to pay special thanks to those who continue to do so; An Garda Siochana, fire service, nurses and doctors, hospital and care staff, the hospitality and retail workers and those who keep our utilities running. I hope that you all get some time to spend with your families this year.

Over the last few years it has become popular to not spend quite so much on gifts but to give in kind; charitable donations in lieu of cards is one example, and a lot of people may give their time to help others. Throughout this year, I have witnessed many acts of kindness from all corners of Cork County. It has been so heart-warming to see people working together and supporting each other. Going the extra mile to ensure that those most in need could access the essential supplies and services that many of us take for granted.

In many respects, this is the true spirit of Christmas. And as we enter the winter months, we need to keep reaching out to help those around us. We need to keep supporting each other as best we can – our family, our friends, our neighbours, and others.

There are so many causes that rely on the help that volunteers bring.  I think it’s important to remember that the volunteers are the driving force of these groups. They are the lifeblood of our community. The heartbeat of all that is good about our County. To them, I say thank you from all of us.

I am so grateful for this opportunity to wish everyone in County Cork a very happy Christmas. It goes without saying that Christmas this year will be a little different as it will be our first unrestricted Christmas since 2019.  We can welcome our families and friends back to our homes from around the county, the country and aboard and I hope this festive season brings you much joy.

Cork County is a special place to live and it is a privilege we all share to be part of this wonderful county of ours.

I want everyone to have a safe Christmas and to enjoy the time with loved ones.

Happy Christmas and God Bless."

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Danny Collins