Billy Barrett receives Mayoral Reception for 40 years of volunteering

Billy Barrett – Limerick Youth Services worker and veteran volunteer Billy was recently recognised for his commitment to vulnerable young people over the past 40 years. Picture: Keith Wiseman.

Billy Barrett receives Mayoral Reception for 40 years of volunteering

By I Love Limerick correspondent Ava O’Donoghue

Billy celebrating his reception with Northside Youth Space.

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Former Limerick Youth Service worker and veteran volunteer Billy Barrett was recently recognised with a Mayoral Reception for his commitment to vulnerable young people over the course of 40 years. The ceremony was hosted by Daniel Butler, Mayor of Limerick City and County.

Billy first began his volunteer work in Moyross with football club Park AFC, before progressing on to Limerick FC and most recently Treaty United FC.

For decades, he has been involved in youth clubs and community groups in Moyross, Ballynanty, Kileely and across the Northside.

During his time as a youth worker with Limerick Youth Service (LYS), Billy worked mainly with teenagers aged between 15 and 20 who had left school early. He led them through programmes in sports, personal development, physical and mental health and was seen as a listening ear for young people.

The selfless Limerick man currently works as a youth justice worker with the LYS Garda Youth Diversion Project, which works with young people who are involved in or at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour and crime. The project engages youths with their own personal development, helping them to make positive decisions in their lives, and empowering them to become positive role models.

“We wish to extend our warmest congratulations to our friend and colleague, Billy Barnett,” Dermot Troy said on behalf of Limerick Youth Service.

In addition, hundreds of members of the Northside community congratulated Billy online.

“Massive congratulations Billy, well deserved. Always there for everyone, any time of the day. To see the respect the young people, past and present have for you says it all,” said one Facebook user. 

“Billy had a big impact on my life and I will be forever grateful. An absolute gentleman,” said another.

Mayor Daniel Butler also recognised two other “exceptional individuals” who have given more than 100 combined years of voluntary service to their respective communities.

Terry Byrne was recognised for over 40 years of committed service to vulnerable members of the Limerick City community.

Michael J. Ryan, Limerick Civil Defence and Terry Byrne, NorthStar Family Support Project were also honoured by Mayor Daniel Butler.

Terry has helped families who are affected by addiction through the NorthStar Family Support Project. She has made a big contribution to the lives of young people in Moyross.

Taking to Facebook, Limerick Suicide Watch congratulated Ms Byrne on her “very well-deserved recognition”, saying, “this evening marks a very special moment for a very special lady.”

“Terry has played a huge part in putting in place appropriate counselling and professional advice for Limerick Suicide Watch and is a constant support for us all, she is immensely respected, appreciated and loved within our group.”

Mayor Daniel Butler also acknowledged Michael J. Ryan for his 60 years of service to Limerick Civil Defence.

Upon developing an interest in first aid, Mr Ryan joined the Civil Defense in 1961 and became a first aid instructor for the Civil Defence in 1985.

Mayor Butler recognised Mr Ryan’s selfless service saying his impact “is also national, providing training to members throughout Ireland”.

For more community stories go HERE 

For more information on Limerick Youth Service go HERE