2025 Stephen Scarff Perpetual Award Winner: Noel Heeney

We gather to honour a truly remarkable individual whose vision, compassion, and dedication have had a lasting impact on families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia in our community.

This person saw a need — families struggling, carers overwhelmed, and individuals living with memory loss who deserved connection, dignity, and a safe place to be understood. Rather than wait for someone else to act, he stepped forward, demonstrating remarkable initiative and leadership.

hrough his efforts, he has helped establish a day-care centre at the local rugby club, transforming a community space into a welcoming, supportive environment. Recognising that no one can do it alone, he has built a strong team of dedicated volunteers to support these initiatives and ensure their success. Together, they work tirelessly to bring respite and engagement to those who need it most.

He has also been a driving force behind fundraising and awareness campaigns, from organising community events to leading initiatives such as the Memory Walk — raising vital funds while bringing the community together in solidarity and hope.

Looking forward, he is determined to achieve a dedicated facility similar to the one in Drogheda, where he was instrumental in helping bring such a service to life. His vision is not just local, but national in scope: he serves on the national executive of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, helping to shape strategy, fundraising, and advocacy at the highest level.

His tireless work, combined with his ability to inspire others, has created a legacy of compassion, support, and hope.

And so, it is with great pride and admiration that we present this award to…Noel Heeney

Thank you for your vision, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to our community.
One of the main awards on the night was to remember joe Kelly of Balbriggan.info who sadly passed away earlier this year and whose generosity, dedication & community spirit made a lasting difference to Balbriggan. Joe Kelly had a familiar presence at local events or online. Balbriggan.info the social media page he created & maintained, he became an essential connector in our town — sharing events, local achievements, supporting good causes & keeping the community informed.

Joe gave his time freely. His efforts were driven by pride in Balbriggan & a genuine desire to help the town& the people he cared about. His contribution went far beyond the ordinary. He volunteered countless hours, supported community initiatives, & helped build a stronger sense of togetherness in the town. His legacy of selfless service is one we honour with deep respect.

To recognise individuals who embody this same commitment to community, we are proud to introduce the Joe Kelly Community Contribution Award. This award celebrates those who, like Joe, make Balbriggan a better, more connected & more vibrant place.

The inaugural recipient is someone whose impact on Balbriggan has been exceptional. Since establishing the Moriarty Group in 1987, he has created thriving local businesses that offer employment, services & opportunities to many families in the community. His commitment extends far beyond business leadership; throughout the years, he has consistently reinvested in the town, supporting sports clubs, schools, charities, youth programmes, local events & community development projects. His generosity, leadership & long-standing dedication have strengthened the social & cultural fabric of Balbriggan.
His contributions have been acknowledged through several notable honours, including the JC Savage Fingal Business Person of the Year and Kerry Person of the Year awards. These recognitions speak not only to his business achievements but also to the exceptional role he plays in supporting & uplifting our community.

In every respect, he reflects the values that this award represents — commitment to community, generosity of spirit & a vision for a better Balbriggan.

It is with great pride that the award for the inaugural Joe Kelly Community Contribution goes to Luke Moriarty.