An Irish Red Cross volunteer from County Clare has been shortlisted in two categories of the Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards 2026 in recognition for his outstanding community service.
Michael Walsh, a volunteer with the Irish Red Cross Ennis Branch, has been shortlisted for both Volunteer of the Year and Community Support Volunteer of the Year, recognising his remarkable commitment to helping people across Clare access essential medical appointments and services.
The Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards celebrate volunteers who generously give their time, skills and expertise to help others. Irish Red Cross volunteers give one million minutes of their time every month helping people and communities across Ireland, from responding to medical emergencies to supporting communities affected by storms, flooding and other crises.
As a Community Driver, Michael volunteers three or four days a week, transporting service users to hospitals throughout Ireland, including Dublin and Belfast. Michael’s support extends far beyond providing transport. He takes time to chat with passengers, offer reassurance and help with practical tasks such as collecting groceries along the way. He also assists wheelchair users, sometimes accompanied by his wife, Bridget, who volunteers alongside him.
In addition to his driving duties, Michael dedicates Fridays and Saturdays to fundraising activities across County Clare. He has been a regular supporter of the Irish Red Cross Tour of Clare fundraising initiative, giving up long days in all weather conditions to help raise vital funds for local Irish Red Cross services.
His fellow volunteers estimate that he contributes approximately 50 hours a week to the organisation through his driving and fundraising activities. Known for his kindness, reliability and willingness to help at any hour, Michael is highly regarded by fellow volunteers and the people who depend on his support.
Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General, Irish Red Cross, said: “Congratulations to Michael on his well deserved nomination and all his fellow volunteers who have been shortlisted for an award. Volunteers are the beating heart of the Irish Red Cross. They give exceptional service to their communities and truly are inspirational. Our National Volunteer Awards are an opportunity for us to publicly acknowledge all that they give and say ‘thank you’. I wish Michael and all those shortlisted a wonderful day at the awards ceremony at the end of the month.”
The Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards recognise the exceptional contributions of volunteers across nine categories: Volunteer of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year, Community Support Volunteer of the Year, First Aid Unit Member of the Year, Instructor of the Year, Branch of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award and Special Status award. Michael will join volunteers from across Ireland at the Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards ceremony in Croke Park on Saturday, 28 November 2026, where this year’s award winners will be announced.