Much deserved.
Limerick City and County Council has announced that the Freedom of Limerick is to be awarded to cervical cancer campaigner Vicky Phelan.
The Freedom of Limerick is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a person by the council and is reserved for those who have “made exceptional or unique contributions to the common good” or to people “who have made outstanding contributions to the life of Limerick”.
The decision for Phelan to receive the honour followed a special meeting of Limerick City and County Council on Tuesday (21 December) where there was unanimous agreement to the nomination made by Mayor of Limerick Daniel Butler.
In a statement on the council’s website, Butler called Phelan an “inspiration”.
“She has faced and continues to face her health challenges head-on, with a drive and determination that has garnered the respect and admiration of all,” he said.
“She is being honoured for her work in uncovering the Cervical Check scandal and her tireless support of other women who have been affected and are fighting for justice – a fight that continues.
“Her work encapsulates the ideals of the Freedom of Limerick.”
Phelan said she was “absolutely honoured and delighted” to accept the Freedom of Limerick title for two reasons.
“The first being that, there have only been four women before me who have been honoured with this title, and secondly, I am a very proud blow-in from Kilkenny who has made her home in Limerick,” she explained.
“I have always felt welcomed and accepted in Limerick, ever before I became this public figure so I would be absolutely thrilled to accept the offer.”
The ceremony will be held in the New Year subject to Covid-19 guidelines.
Meanwhile, last week, Phelan shared images of her meeting with former RTÉ broadcaster Charlie Bird, while announcing her intention to climb Croagh Patrick alongside him next year.
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