N28S1Pic Local communities and newspapers around the country, including The Munster Express can pat themselves on the back for a job well done in the inaugural 'Get Involved' campaign. 
 Over 1,386 volunteers participated in the campaign, putting in a Trojan effort of over 42,400 man hours between them – as they dedicated themselves to improving certain areas in their communities. 
  President Michael D Higgins thanked and commended every single one of you who got involved. 
 The awards for the inaugural Get-Involved Community Initiative took place at a heart-warming ceremony in the Áras an Uachtaráin in Dublin,  with President Higgins and his wife Sabina meeting with 130 representatives from the 22 projects across Ireland.. 
 Speaking about the projects President Higgins said: “They are uplifting reminders of the enthusiasm, innovation and all we can do together and the capacity that still exists in abundance in towns, villages and suburbs across the country.
 “That kind of active participation and the building of the dynamic of inclusive communities where everyone is encouraged to play their part is very, very important,” he added. 
 We have the vision to re-imagine, recreate and re-prep, ensuring the possibilities and potential do not become victims of neglect or apathy.”
 Each of the 22 projects were championed by their local newspapers around the country, with President Higgins saying local newspapers continue to play a hugely important role in communities around Ireland.