1997/98

In what was a momentous year for Dungarvan Lions Club, with the hosting of District 105i Annual Convention, Paul Clerkin became President for the second time, while Anne O'Leary, now Anne Power, continued as Secretary.

The first big event of the year was the Cabaret at the end of October in the Park Hotel. Phil Coulter was the big attraction. While the night was very enjoyable, the profit was small due to very heavy costs. As it turned out this was the last Annual Cabaret held, bringing to an end a hugely successful series going back to the beginnings of the Club.

Hospital visits continued during the year, with Jim Duggan and Johnny Moloney providing the music. These two men, although not members of the club, were part of the Lions organisation with their musical support for many years.

Pat O'Sullivan had another year of heading up the Christmas Appeal. The Dungarvan target for the year was £16,000, but this was beaten by £3,100. Another successful Appeal.

A seminar on Substance Abuse was held in November chaired by John Treacy. Also the Club donated a special chair to St. Joseph's Hospital at a cost of £400.

The Leo Club became involved in the Christmas Swim, but could do nothing about the weather, which took a rare turn for the worse on Christmas Day.

Sub committees were set up early in the season for the Convention. An early scare that the Clonea Strand Hotel would not be available was overcome. Reading through the minutes of the year, the organisation of the event was a huge logistical operation. Michael Walsh was the man in charge of putting the committees together, and with the support of the President and members of the Club, it was agreed that the Convention went off exceptionally well. Lots of problems encountered along the way were dealt with and the whole event was a real credit to Dungarvan Lions and Leo Clubs.

In addition to those in Lionism, the Convention became a whole town event. It was probably the biggest convention to be held in the town up to that point. The Urban District Council, Dungarvan Tourism, Chamber of Commerce and all statutory and voluntary services came on board. The many fringe social events won the hearts of our guests. These included a golfing competition, cabarets in both The Park and Clonea Strand hotels, bowling, and a historical tour of Lismore Castle and Heritage Centre. Certainly, well done Dungarvan.

Guests from Swords and a Welsh Club joined us for monthly meetings during the term.

Despite the huge workload of the Convention, the Club continued with lots of other activities such as the Mosney holiday, Carriglea, Christmas and Summer outings, Regional Youth Award, Over 55s Talent Competition, as well as financially supporting many local and international charities.