DLR Women’s Committee Leadership Awards 2026

The inaugural DLR Women’s Committee Leadership Awards took place this week at County Hall, Dún Laoghaire, celebrating four exceptional women whose leadership, dedication and impact have made a lasting contribution to their communities and beyond: Dr Nuala Quinn, Sarah Healy, Gemma Rowley and Barbara Roe.

Organised by the DLR Women’s Committee, the awards recognise women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership across fields including health, sport, advocacy, and community development. The ceremony highlighted the depth and diversity of talent within Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, honouring achievements that extend beyond expectation through initiative, commitment, and a strong sense of community.

The awards were presented by An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Jim Gildea alongside the Chairperson of the DLR Women’s Committee Cllr Lorraine Hall.

An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Jim Gildea said: 

"It is a privilege to recognise these outstanding women whose contributions have strengthened our communities and inspired others to lead with purpose. Their impact reaches far beyond our County and reflects the values of dedication, resilience and inclusion we are proud to support."

The award recipients were:

Dr Nuala Quinn, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine at Children’s Health Ireland, Temple Street, who was recognised for her exceptional humanitarian leadership through the Gaza Paediatric Care Initiative. She has coordinated the complex transfer and care of over 20 critically ill children from Gaza to Ireland, demonstrating extraordinary commitment, collaboration, and compassion in challenging circumstances.

Sarah Healy, a two-time Olympian from Monkstown, was honoured for her outstanding achievements in athletics and her role as an international figure in Irish sport. She has set Irish indoor records in both the 1500m and the 3000m and represented Ireland in the European Championships and at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games which reflects both elite excellence and a sustained commitment to inspiring future generations.

Gemma Rowley was recognised for her pioneering advocacy, which began in 1965, on behalf of unmarried mothers and their children, she challenged stigma and inequality at a time of significant societal barriers. Through founding Ally and contributing to the establishment of Treoir in 1976, an organisation dedicated to promoting equal rights and supports for families regardless of marital status, her leadership has had a profound and lasting impact on Irish social policy and ongoing efforts to reform family law and promote equality.

Barbara Roe was celebrated for her lifelong dedication to community service across Kilternan, Sandyford and Glencullen. Her leadership in establishing initiatives such as the Wayside Walkers and the development of Kilternan Adult Education Centre and her involvement with La Leche League providing peer support to parents for many years, reflects decades of commitment to wellbeing, education, and social connection.

Cllr Lorraine Hall, Chairperson of DLR Women’s Committee added:

"These awards celebrate not only remarkable achievement, but also the courage, compassion and leadership shown by women who make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives every day. Our 2026 recipients embody the very best of community spirit and leadership across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown."

The DLR Women’s Committee extends its congratulations to all award recipients and acknowledges their invaluable contributions. The event was proudly supported by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.