Member's statement: Volunteers' Week 2026
Member's statement by Mr Tom Buchanan on .
- MLA
- Mr Tom Buchanan
- Party at the time
- Democratic Unionist Party
- Date
- 2 June 2026
- Type
- Member's statement
- Business
- Members' Statements
- Heading
- Volunteers' Week 2026
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5583927
Read the official Assembly record
Text
Yesterday marked the commencement of Volunteers' Week, when organisations and all those throughout Northern Ireland who give of their time in a voluntary manner are recognised for their sterling work. It was a privilege to meet a number of groups in Omagh yesterday and present them with certificates to acknowledge the work that they had done not only over the past year but throughout many previous years. They are the people who, through their dedication and undivided commitment, quietly breathe life into the heart of our communities, keeping them strong and people-focused. In many towns and villages throughout Northern Ireland, they are the individuals who willingly give their time, energy and compassion not for praise or reward but because they care about the people around them. Volunteering is one of the greatest expressions of citizenship. It is the work that never makes the headlines but holds our communities together. Whether it is supporting the vulnerable, organising local events, coaching young people or simply being there when someone needs a helping hand, the contribution of volunteers matters so much to people and makes a real difference to their lives. Today, I acknowledge the service that they deliver. It is about saying to volunteers simply but with all sincerity, "Thank you for the hours that you give, the skills that you share and the example that you set, reminding us that community spirit is something that we build day by day through acts of kindness and commitment". Throughout my years as a Member, I have witnessed, day by day, the huge impact that the work of volunteers has made on our communities. I have seen the difference that they make in homes, in neighbourhoods and in the lives of people who may never know their name but will always feel the benefit of their generosity. Standing shoulder to shoulder with our volunteers, and on behalf of those who can testify to their lives having been touched by their sterling, dedicated work, I express my sincere gratitude. It is a service that strengthens the community spirit in the little place that we call home.
351 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
Assessment
Awaiting analysis
This record has not been analysed yet. It is not counted in any total until it has been assessed.
Disagree with this assessment?
Classifications can be challenged. A person reviews every challenge, and any change is recorded publicly above with its reason.