The Irish Red Cross Society (IRCS) was established by an Act of the Oireachtas in July 1939 and subsequent to this, the Kinsale Branch was established in 1939 and is heading towards 70 years in the provision of support to both local and international efforts.

The branch has a premises in Church Lane which consists of an ambulance bay, office, store rooms, meeting room, kitchen and toilet facilities. It was purpose built in 1992 through fundraising and donations. It is also used by other community groups including Alcoholics Anonymous and Brownies.

The branch is run by volunteers consisting of a committee which oversees the branch and its various subsections, including Unit and Ambulance, Youth and Discos, Community Services.

Officers of Kinsale Branch

Chairperson Tom Reilly Vice Chair Paddi Horgan
Secretary Barbara McCallum Assis Sec Trish Ryan
Treasurer Denis Toomey PRO Ruth Cotter
Youth Officer Ursula O'Leary Unit Officer Bob Cast
Community Officer Bob Cast Emergency Officer Joe O'Leary
Fundraising Co-Ord James O'Mahony Amb Officer Edward Williamson
Further, many branch personnel are involved in training and administration at area level. At National level, Unit personnel participate on the Central Council of Irish Red Cross, National Training Working Group and Instructor Teaching Group. At International Level, a Kinsale Unit member plays a key role on the European First Aid monitoring group for Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. 

©2008 Irish Red Cross Kinsale Branch, info@kinsaleredcross.org