Florence Lights The Way For The Arts In The Newry Mourne And Down District Area

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Hosts Reception In Recognition of Florence McNulty’s Contribution To The Arts And Community Life In The District. 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Mickey Ruane hosted a reception in the Council Chamber on Wednesday 13 April 2016 to celebrate the immeasurable contribution that Florence McNulty has made to the arts, culture and community life in the Newry, Mourne and Down district area.

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Mickey Ruane presents Florence McNulty with an inscribed crystal bowl at a Council reception in recognition of Florence's contribution to the Arts and Community life in the district. Florence is pictured surrounded by friends and some of her past singers.
Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Mickey Ruane presents Florence McNulty with an inscribed crystal bowl at a Council reception in recognition of Florence’s contribution to the Arts and Community life in the district. Florence is pictured surrounded by friends and some of her past singers.

Speaking at the Reception, Councillor Ruane said, “Coming from a family of singers, you were gifted with a beautiful mezzo soprano voice which you used with Newry Musical Society and the celebrated Dominican Choir in Newry. One of the Council’s objectives is to empower and improve the capacity of our communities and you have been the embodiment of this throughout your lifetime. For this, I thank you most sincerely.”

Florence worked as a teacher in St Peter’s Primary School, Cloughreagh, as well as being the coordinator for the arts and in this role she wrote, produced and directed plays and musicals for children, and on several occasions these productions won national awards.

Outside of her teaching role, Florence directed musicals for many groups including St Louis Grammar School in Kilkeel. She worked tirelessly with Derramore Singers winning many high profile competitions, including first prize at the Cork International Choral Festival and later went on to form Newry Age Concern Choir.

Councillor Ruane added: “The Council and the community are very proud of you and thank you for your years of hard work and service to our community. Florence tonight is all about you. You are surrounded by family and friends and I am honoured to be here with you as Chairperson of our Council. I hope you thoroughly enjoy your evening – I am honoured to host you”.