EIGHT TDs and Senators were among a group of about 30 people including Oireachtas staff who braved the elements to hike the Comeragh Mountains in Co Waterford yesterday, raising funds for Arthritis Ireland.
It was a “really challenging walk”, according to group leader Minister for Arts Jimmy Deenihan. “There was a storm when we reached the top” but it was all in a good cause, he said.
TDs Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, Nicky McFadden, Eric Byrne and Paudie Coffey and Senators Catherine Noone and Rónán Mullen also participated in the 15km hike. TD Mattie McGrath joined them for the early part of the trek of Knockanaffrin at the northern part of the Comeraghs. This is the fourth year of the Oireachtas hill walk which usually raises between €3,000 and €6,000 for a designated charity.
Mr Deenihan was not disappointed at the turnout of TDs and Senators. “The most important thing is that they contribute to the sponsorship and every year they have been very supportive.”
“It is these types of initiatives that help us make a big difference to people with arthritis and their families,” said chief executive of Arthritis Ireland John Church.
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