by Seán Lawless
24/01/2012
The 6th Annual "Christmas" Lunch of the C-A-R Group took place on Jan 24th in The Burlington Hotel.
The large gathering of 77 male and female associates from all sectors of the industry met up in the Mespil Bar for morning tea and coffee before moving to the Diplomat Restaurant for lunch.
At the outset Robert Prole addressed the group, introduced the guests from SIMI, Alan Nolan Director General, Con Dalton Hon Sec of BEN and Society President Gerry Caffrey. A minutes silence was then observed for those who had died during the past year and also remembered were those who are ill and were unable to attend the lunch including our much loved Past President Jim Barton who retired his position at this function last year. Larry Mooney was then called on to say Grace.
During the meal those present were asked to stand up and briefly introduce themselves. This added to the warm atmosphere associated with the occasion. Following lunch Robert Prole then reported on the year past mentioning the many successful outings held ( eight in all ) and the number of participants who attended was very encouraging and C.A.R. looked forward to another busy year in 2012.
Some business matters which were taken care of at a recent meeting of the Steering Committee were then reported on by Larry Mooney. The vacant position of Group President has been filled by Robert Prole and that of Vice President by Pat Naismith. The other Steering Committee members for 2012 are Tony Keoghan, Larry Mooney, Bob Waddell, Peter Lynch and Seoirse de Burca.
Con Dalton ( representing BEN ) was then presented with a cheque for Û1025 on behalf of the members of C-A-R. Con commented how generous this was and how much this will benefit those in need associated with the industry.
Society President Gerry Caffrey congratulated the organising committee for the great work done in 2011 and expressed surprise at the number of people he recognised in the room, was he heading towards retirement sooner than it felt!
In his closing few words Robert Prole indicated that the year ahead should see outings to : Baldonnell, The Titanic Exhibition in Belfast and Aras an Uachtar‡in with dates to be announced. Suggestions for suitable and interesting venues to visit would be welcomed by the committee.
New members ( male and female) are always welcome and should make contact through the web site www.contact-after-retirement.com or Robert Prole at 01 288 9565
S.L.