Background to the Charles Thomson Award
The Royal Lifesaving Society Ulster Branch, Republic of Ireland Branch and Irish Water Safety have worked together for many years to promote improved water safety practices on our island. The work completed by the Local Authorities is a key factor in reducing the number of drownings each year. In valued recognition of this fact, the three bodies have agreed that the Local Authority who contributed most to promoting water safety in their jurisdiction should be recognised. The criteria attached will give guidance on how the Jury, drawn from all three organisations, decides which Local Authority will be selected for this Award.
Charles Thomson completed tremendous work over many years for all three organizations and in many Local Authorities to promote better practices in water safety and contributed greatly towards the reduction of drownings on this island. He passed away in 2000 and all three bodies felt that it would be appropriate to commemorate his life by naming this award in his memory.
It was agreed that Cliodhna, the water goddess in Irish Mythology who was washed away from her lover by a wave, would be used as the motif for the trophy. The Jury will consist of two personnel from each of the three organisations. They will meet once each year to evaluate all submissions. The National Office of the Irish Water Safety Association will complete the Administration of the Award.
Previous winners are Waterford Co Co, Craigavon Borough Council, Wexford Co Co, Waterford City Council, Kerry Co Co and Galway City Council.