Minister Patrick O’Donovan visiting Sr Louise Horgan, a native of Co. Cork, at the Good Shepherd Sisters Fatima Centre in Bangkok, March 2019. Two nuns and a priest are among the 14 people who are to receive the Presidential Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad for 2020.
Sr Patricia Murray and Fr Kevin O’Hara SMS are being recognised for their work for peace, reconciliation and development in Italy and Nigeria respectively.
Sr Louise Horgan is being rewarded for her charitable works in Thailand, where she has provided much need education and work training opportunities to disadvantaged women and children over many decades.
The Presidential Distinguished Service Award was established to recognise the contribution of members of the Irish diaspora, and the first awards were made in 2012. This year’s recipients were announced by Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity once again to formally recognise the achievements of some of the finest members of our global family, our diaspora,” Minister Coveney said.
“The 14 recipients demonstrate Ireland’s remarkable international influence,” he continued. “Their work has impacted so many, bringing joy through literature, theatre and film; improving social policy and providing care and support for the poor and underprivileged. I am deeply grateful for their service and commitment to this country.”