The achievements of the multi-award winning Larchville/Lisduggan community should be used as an example for all nationwide.
That's according to Metropolitan Mayor Councillor Jody Power who was speaking as members of the area's Residents' Association were afforded a Mayoral reception at City Hall yesterday.
The group were All Ireland winners at the recent Pride of Place Awards.
Cllr. Power commended the group for their remarkable work in the community.
"They've not just got local awards, they've received regional and national awards for their community spirit. They have developed a neighbourhood from a place where 20 years ago - people were afraid to come out of their houses. It has now been developed into a vibrant community where people are actually embracing their locality. It's just magic what has happened there. The transformation - if we can replicate that throughout the city and country - this country would be a lot better than what it is right now."
Sinn Fein Councillor John Hearne gave an overview of some of the group's recent achievements.
"It's the biggest day in the parish's history - we are absolutely delighted to be here", said Cllr. Hearne. "The reason that we are here is more important, because of the great volunteers that we have in the parish. The amount of work that the volunteers do is unbelievable - every home in Francis Court is painted, every gutter is cleaned and every window is washed."
He says big things are on the horizon for the locality in the months ahead.
"This week, RTE were talking to the guards about making a programme in Waterford and they said the only story in Waterford at the moment is Larchville and Lisduggan and the great work that's going on up there", he revealed.
"The residents are making it a great place to live so please God, RTE do make the programme. It won't be any harm at all to show communities all across the country how they can be better - because we were listed as the most deprived and disadvantaged area in the 32 counties. To win the All-Ireland as the best community, is a great achievement."
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