A woman who jumped into the River Lee to rescue someone floating downstream has received an award for her bravery.
Lorna Murphy (21), Southern Road, Cork, was yesterday named the winner of the Irish Security Industry Association's Annual Courage Award at a ceremony in the Stillorgan Park Hotel, Dublin.
At 11pm last May 4th, Ms Murphy jumped into the River Lee when she spotted someone floating downstream. She kept the person's head above water for almost 15 minutes while they were carried under Parnell Bridge by the strong current. Emergency services then rescued them.
The award's commendation read: "She put her own life at risk by entering the water at night in a dangerous stretch of river. For her vital role in this rescue, her courage and response under pressure, she is presented with the ISIA Courage Award for 2005."
The award was presented by Minister for Justice Michael McDowell, who was named the Premier Award winner "in recognition of his courage, leadership and commitment to national security and the private sector industry". Former winners include John Hume and Fr Denis Faul.
Garda Joe Shields, based in Salthill, Co Galway, was presented with the Garda Community Excellence Award yesterday for working over and above the call of duty. He was singled out for his community participation and his commitment to young people by members of his local community.
Michael Fryer from Rapier Security Group Dublin was named Security Officer of the Year.