Good Relations Awards for two local ladies

Two women from the Fermanagh and Omagh District have been recognised for their exceptional achievement in promoting good community relations, intercultural work and peacebuilding in Northern Ireland at the recently held Community Relations Council’s Good Relations Awards.

Hazel McGuigan and Mary Lafferty were announced as runners-up in two award categories.  Hazel was runner-up in the Good Relations Volunteer of the Year award while Mary was runner-up in the Good Relations Community Champion Award. The women were presented with their awards at an event, hosted by Jo Scott from the BBC, in Belfast Harbour Commissioners Office on Tuesday 7 March 2023.

Hazel McGuigan, Chairperson of Campsie Hub, has dedicated her life to helping others, promoting understanding and breaking down barriers in her local community. Hazel is described as an outstanding leader who represents the community sector on several regional groups, lobbying for the betterment of the general Omagh area. She works closely with a wide number of community and statutory organisations and makes a very positive contribution to building positive relations across all sections of the Fermanagh and Omagh District.

Mary Lafferty, based in Omagh, was recognised for her outstanding contribution to building good relations in the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area. She is an exemplary good relations community champion who leads by example. Mary has been to the forefront of cultural diversity work primarily with the Syrian community, and now with Ukrainian refugees. She has knowledge, compassion and empathy for each person she meets, going above and beyond to make life better for all.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, commented:

“We are very fortunate, as a Council district, to have two such dedicated residents in our midst.

Both Hazel and Mary have worked tirelessly to improve our local communities.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank them both and to congratulate them on this wonderful achievement.

The Awards have showcased the crucial work that is having a real impact in our society, improving people’s lives and opportunities, while also strengthening the community spirit in the places where we live, work, and play.

This is a wonderful recognition for both Mary and Hazel. These are highly prestigious awards and much deserved.”