Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann Connacht Council held a function in the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris last Saturday 23rd February. Mass was celebrated in the hotel by Fr. Martin Hillary with music provided by musicians and singer from the Province. Ten people were nominated by the Provincial Council for special recognition, two from each county. Those chosen for dedicated and long serving service to Comhaltas in the five counties of Connacht were as follows:- *Leitrim: Maureen Quigley and Seamus Ferguson Roscommon: John Gildea and John Keaveney Sligo: Teresa McCormack and John Joe Brennan Mayo: Marion Lyons and Jim Staunton Galway: Phil Whyte and Caomhán Ó Fatharta* In his address to the huge gathering from the Province, *Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú* paid tribute to volunteerism which in this day and age does not enjoy as high profile as in previous years but people still come forward to help their community. There is a rich heritage of music, dance, song and the language in the West of Ireland and our volunteers have helped to save it from extinction. Today the culture is vibrant and alive. In the last three years Comhaltas has received €18million towards its work and this money is going to local events and is helping to keep the culture alive for future generations. Indeed the culture is now rooted in the community. In closing Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú encouraged everyone to use a few words of Irish whenever they opportunity arose to ensure its survival and growth. After the presentations to those honoured the gathering enjoyed a fine dinner and danced the night away to the Sean Norman Céilí Band. Deirdre Parnell PRO Connacht Council CCE