Order of Malta volunteers kept region moving, healthy and safe

As freezing temperatures gripped the county, many would be forgiven for choosing to stay warm indoors, but the dedicated members of the Mullingar Unit of the Order of Malta braved the harsh weather to support the local community when it was needed most.

Adjutant Colin Watters, Officer in Charge of Mullingar Unit, said: “During Christmas, local members of the Order of Malta in Mullingar – all volunteers – were out and about, continuing to deliver the normal patient services we provide all year round. Our unit is one of the many units, who, as part of our organisation’s national response, have braved the elements to help our communities,”

Commander Tony O’Mara, assistant national director of Operations, said that the plummeting temperatures and severe weather last week led to a sharp rise in requests for services. “Our volunteers, and their specialist 4x4 vehicles, were in big demand, particularly across the south midlands following the heavy snow.

“Nationally, volunteers from across the Order of Malta were working closely with the statutory agencies, including the HSE and emergency management officers, providing transport for patients and essential staff to and from hospitals, transport of public health nurses to their community-based clients, delivering essential treatments and medication, as well as delivering food and medicine to inaccessible areas.

“An important part of our operation was the arranging the transport of patients for essential dialysis appointments.”

The Mullingar team extended their efforts far beyond the county, and volunteers were helping people to safely travel to and from medical facilities in Donegal, Offaly, Meath, Kildare and Dublin.

“The additional work has seen us put up some significant mileage on our two ambulances,” Colin said. “I sincerely thank our specially trained volunteers for willingly giving up their time to help out in some challenging weather and road conditions.”

Comdr Brian Coote, national director of Order of Malta Ireland, added: “I am proud of Order of Malta Ambulance Corps volunteers, particularly during busy periods such as the recent weather event. While everyone is trained to the highest standards, extra care and caution are needed during those times, and I want to thank everyone for their co-operation and hard work.”

Joining the Mullingar unit

As with any voluntary organisation, the Order of Malta are always eager to welcome new members. No prior experience is needed, as full training is provided.

If you want to find out more, go along to the Milltown GAA grounds this Thursday, January 16 (7-9pm) to find out more about the work the Order of Malta do locally, nationally and internationally, as part of a safety awareness event organised by the GAA Health Club programme.

For further information, contact: Adjt Colin Watters, Officer in Charge, Order of Malta Ireland – Ambulance Corps Mullingar Unit: colin.watters@orderofmalta.ie: 087 943 0954.

Order of Malta Ireland

The Order of Malta Ireland are volunteers dedicated to providing first aid, emergency response services, and community care. Our mission is to serve communities through our network of trained volunteers, providing life-saving support and care when it is needed most. Working in close collaboration with emergency services across the Island of Ireland, the Order of Malta is a key partner in ensuring public safety and wellbeing during times of crisis.