Family, friends and colleagues of the late, inspirational Nina Smyth gathered at the Regional Drug and Co-Ordination Unit, Mungret Street, Limerick on Friday February 24th for an emotional event which named the boardroom in her memory.
Nina, who was described as being the heartbeat of the centre, passed away in April 2021, having worked in Mungret Street for many years as Drug and Alcohol Education Officer. The conference room was one of her many outlets in the building and colleagues felt it fitting that this should be named after Nina with the approval of her family.
Led by Regional Co-Ordinator Rory Keane with the assistance of Anne O’Neill, Education Officer, and Eleanor Keogh, Project Worker, the function was attended by Nina’s mother Kay who formally cut the ribbon on the dedication of the conference room. Nina’s husband Eugene, their children Katie and Eoghan, and Nina’s sisters Grainne and Cathy were also in attendance to share the occasion.
“Her place is empty and we really miss Nina in and around the office here in Corporate House. I am struck by the fact that the building, while built with concrete and is hard and sturdy, it is really the people who shape the work done here. This was Nina’s space and her knowledge, her humour and her work shaped this whole place,” said Rory Keane who added that Nina made had enormous impact on so many lives during her time in the service.
Anne O’Neill and Eleanor Keogh had a very warm welcome for the Smyth family members and said that while Nina loved her work in Limerick and was travelling from Mullinahone in South Tipperary each day to work, she loved going home to her husband Eugene and her children in the evening more than anything else.
Though the occasion was tinged with sadness, there was great joy too in the fact that Nina will be remembered each time a person enters the door of the conference room – her photo and inscription dedicating the conference room to her memory are located right inside the entrance.
Many of Nina’s colleagues gathered to share the occasion, to welcome her loved ones, and to recall many events, stories and happenings during her time in the Unit.
Nina’s mother Kay cuts the ribbon at the dedication of the conference room to her daughter.
A group shot of those in attendance at the event.