Dr Katherine Zappone, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs today announced the appointment of Mr. John Cunningham as the new Chair of the Council of Gaisce – The President’s Award for a three-year term.
Making the announcement, Minister Zappone said, “I am delighted to appoint such an eminently qualified person as Mr. Cunningham to this important position. Mr Cunningham is currently the Chair of the Immigrant Council of Ireland, and a Director of the Irish Youth Foundation, which supports projects for children and young people in disadvantaged communities.
He also has a strong professional background in coaching, mentoring and entrepreneurship. He embodies all of the qualities that the President and I believe are essential to the role of Chair of the Council of Gaisce”.
Dr Zappone also pointed to Mr Cunningham’s particular focus on inclusivity, a demonstrated commitment to social justice, and a commitment to supporting and developing opportunities within Gaisce’s work for vulnerable and hard-to-reach young people.
Gaisce is a self-development programme for young people which enhances confidence and well-being through participation in personal, physical and community challenges. Gaisce is a direct challenge from the President of Ireland to young people aged 15-25 to dream big and realise their potential. Gaisce is non-competitive: participants are encouraged to choose their own activities and goals with the support of a trained, adult President’s Award Leader (or PAL).
Full Press Release from the Department of Children and Youth Affairs HERE