President’s words will be collectors’ treasure

10 March 2010

The stamp, designed by John Conway, shows the Gaisce logo against a backdrop of Áras an Uachtaráin. A first day cover produced by An Post will feature a greeting from President Mary McAleese, the first time a presidential message has featured in this way.

Gaisce was established in 1985 and set out to contribute to the development of young people through the achievement of personal challenges.

The awards are divided into three different categories: Bronze, Silver and Gold. The minimum age for each award is fifteen, sixteen and seventeen respectively. Participants in Gaisce must take part in challenges that they set themselves  in community involvment, personal skill and physical recreation. Also an adventure journey with the support of a mentor known as a Presidents Award Leader or PAL.

Since its inception in 1985 almost 220,000 students have participated in the award programme and many awardees have gone on to become some of the most active and contributing members of Irish society.

Gaisce participant Kevin Redmond from St Declan’s College, Cabra  says “The President’s Award has opened up many doors for me and is helping me to improve myself and also my local community.”

As part of his award effort Kevin has become involved with a special needs charity,
taken up debating and running. Later this year he will take part in a hike with other students who are also trying to achieve a bronze medal as part of the adventure journey area of the award.

“If it was not for Gaisce – The President’s Award, I wouldn’t have taken it upon myself to help out in my community, learn a new skill or get healthier” says Kevin.

The stamps are available from main Post Offices, at www.irishstamps.ie or from the GPO Philatelic Shop, Dublin 1.