National Services Day celebrated

Tipperary Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP), in partnership with Tipperary County Council, successfully hosted National Services Day on September 5 at Mary Immaculate College, St Patrick's Campus, Thurles. This event brought statutory, emergency and voluntary services together from across the county to celebrate and acknowledge the invaluable work they carry out in support of communities’ daily basis.

The event provided an opportunity for members of the public to meet representatives from a wide range of services, learn more about their roles and recognise the dedication and commitment of those who work tirelessly to protect, support and assist communities across Tipperary.

Services represented on the day included:

· National Ambulance Service

· An Garda Síochána, Thurles

· Tipperary Fire Service

· Tipperary Civil Defence

· Tipperary Search and Rescue

· South Eastern Mountain Rescue

Association (SEMRA)

· Clonmel Community First Responders

A highlight of the day was a parade of emergency and support service vehicles through the streets of Thurles. Which attracted significant public interest and showcased the broad range of organisations that play a vital role in keeping communities safe and resilient.

Speaking at the event, Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, Cllr Fiona Bonfield, said: “As a local authority, Tipperary County Council is proud to work in partnership with these services. Whether responding to severe weather events, supporting community resilience, coordinating emergency planning, promoting public safety, or delivering services that enhance quality of life, collaboration is at the heart of what we do.”

Noel Coonan, Chair of the Tipperary Local Community Safety Partnership, also paid tribute to the services represented on the day. “National Services Day reminds us not only to recognise and thank those who serve our communities, but also to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them. As we move forward, it is vital that we continue to strengthen partnerships, foster collaboration and value the important work carried out every day by these essential services. On behalf of the Local Community Safety Partnership, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who dedicate their time, expertise and effort to serving the people of Tipperary.”

The organisers expressed their appreciation to all participating organisations, volunteers, attendees and supporters who contributed to the success of the event. National Services Day highlighted the strength of collaboration between statutory agencies and voluntary organisations and reinforced the importance of recognising those who dedicate themselves to public service.

Building on the success of this year's event, planning is already underway for the next National Services Day in 2027, with hopes of welcoming even more services and organisations to participate in what is becoming an important annual celebration of service, community safety and partnership across County Tipperary.

LCSP

The LCSP was established by Tipperary County Council in 2026 and brings together representatives from statutory agencies, community organisations and residents to address local safety needs, with a focus on areas such as crime prevention, community engagement and supporting vulnerable groups.