Willie Dwyer named inaugural Dublin Port Local Community Hero
22 October 2026
Longstanding East Wall community volunteer Willie Dwyer has been named the winner of the inaugural Dublin Port Local Community Hero Award, recognising his longstanding contribution to his local community and decades of commitment to supporting people of all ages.
Willie received the award at a recent Dublin Port event celebrating 25 years of the Dublin Port Scholarship Programme, where his family joined him to mark the occasion.
The Dublin Port Local Community Hero Award was created to recognise the people who make an exceptional contribution to their local communities through generosity, commitment and practical action. It celebrates those who give their time, bring people together and make a positive difference, often quietly and without seeking recognition.
Willie was selected by an independent judging panel in appreciation of his longstanding commitment to the East Wall community and the many ways he has supported local people across generations.
His community involvement has included serving as a youth leader with St. Mary’s Youth Club and managing St. Joseph’s CYFC junior football team, as well as raising funds for the seniors’ annual Christmas party.
Willie has also helped organise the Homework Club and supported Junior and Leaving Certificate grinds for young students in the area.
One of Willie’s most significant contributions to East Wall has been his involvement with the Seán O’Casey Community Centre. He played an instrumental role in campaigning for a new community centre, which was later realised as the Seán O’Casey Community Centre, affectionately known locally as the “cheese block”. Today, he serves as Chairman of the Centre.
Edel Currie, Community Engagement Manager at Dublin Port said: “When we launched the Dublin Port Local Community Hero Award, we wanted to recognise someone who makes a real difference in their community, consistently contributing behind the scenes with no expectation of praise. Willie embodies exactly what this award is about.
“His commitment to East Wall stretches across generations, from young people to seniors, and his contribution has been felt throughout the community for many years. We are delighted to recognise Willie as the inaugural Dublin Port Local Community Hero.”
Willie was presented with the award by President of Sinn Féin Mary Lou McDonald TD and Edel Currie, Community Engagement Manager at Dublin Port.
The Local Community Hero Award reflects Dublin Port’s longstanding connection with the communities surrounding the Port and shines a light on the people whose contribution can sometimes happen behind the scenes, but whose impact is felt throughout their community.
Find out more about the Dublin Port Local Community Hero Award: