This year, Gaisce – The President’s Award marked its 40th anniversary in style, closing out the celebrations with a truly memorable milestone: the first-ever PALCon, a conference dedicated to the contributions of President’s Award Leaders (PALs).
The event took place last Saturday in the State Apartments of Dublin Castle, bringing together PALs from across the country to celebrate, connect, and recognise their remarkable impact on young people.

Among those honoured were several of Scouting Ireland’s CSA Mentors, whose dedication and hard work were warmly acknowledged throughout the day.
The following mentors received awards at the ceremony:
- Eleanor Moriarty, 16th Kildare (Kilcock)
- Pat Hollingsworth, 66th Dublin (Naomh Eoin Clontarf)
- Kiernan Gildea, 9th/10th Dublin (Aughrim Street)
- Kevin Murphy, 5th Carlow (Carlow Town)
- Imelda Hurley, 102nd Cork (Kilbrittain)
- Sheila McCarthy, 43rd/70th Cork (Bishopstown)
- Alan Murphy, 8th Waterford (Tramore)
- Kelley Hall, 15th/25th Waterford (Sacred Heart)
Scouting Ireland expressed their delight at this well-deserved recognition, celebrating the mentors’ ongoing commitment to supporting young people in achieving their President’s Award goals.

