Dublin Journalists Golf Society raises €12,000 for The Red Door School

ictured at the presentation of the cheque at The Red Door School were (from left): Eddie Coffey (DJGS treasurer), John Fogarty, Conan Byrne (Red Door School principal), Gerry McCarthy, Peter O’Hehir (DJGS vice-captain), Rob Catterson (DJGS honorary secretary) and Denis Kirwan.

The Dublin Journalists Golf Society vice-captain Peter O’Hehir was delighted to present a cheque of €12,000 to The Red Door School in Monkstown, Co Dublin following the Society’s recent Charity Day at the picturesque Carlow Golf Club.

After a record sum was raised for suicide bereavement support group HUGG (Healing Untold Grief Groups) by the DJGS in 2024, the figure was surpassed at a memorable day in Carlow GC, one of the country’s finest parkland golf courses.

Vice-captain O’Hehir joined fellow DJGS members and Red Door School principal Conan Byrne at the school for the presentation of the proceeds from the annual event.

Enrolling 30 students, The Red Door School caters for children on the autism spectrum with complex needs. The school provides a child-centred, evidence-based education for children in an inclusive environment where their independence is fostered.

“On behalf of our captain Conor, it was my honour to present the cheque to The Red Door School,” said DJGS vice-captain Peter O’Hehir. “The Red Door School is attended by Grace, the daughter of our 2019 captain John Fogarty, and it meant a lot for the society to do something for a cause so close to home.

“I wish Conan, his staff and students all the very best for this school year and hope the money raised will make a difference in helping the education of these wonderful children.

“I want to thank all those who made our Charity Day our greatest yet. Our treasurer Eddie Coffey was an incredible conduit between our society and his home club, the majestic Carlow GC. It truly is a treat to play. To club professional Damian McGrane, club captain Alan Whelan and all the club staff who made the day what it was, our deepest appreciation.

“To all those who sourced sponsorship and prizes for the day, we are extremely grateful. The generosity of our members, their friends and colleagues makes our Charity Day the success that it is.”

Thanking the DJGS for the donation, The Red Door School principal Conan Byrne said: “It’s with deep gratitude that I accept this cheque on behalf of our school. The monies raised by the Dublin Journalists Golf Society will go a long way to supporting our students.”