Mayor honours local hero Charlie Costello for bravery
At a special Mayoral Reception in City Hall this week, the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Séamus Ryan, paid tribute to Charlie Costello for his remarkable act of bravery earlier this year.
In April, Charlie courageously entered the River Barrow to rescue a man in distress, an act which, alongside the swift response of emergency services, ensured that both men were brought safely from the water. In his remarks, the Mayor described Charlie’s actions as “a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of moments, our instinct to help one another still shines through,” praising his courage, compassion, and humanity.
Reflecting on the broader challenge of mental health in our communities, the Mayor urged continued support and understanding for those in crisis, adding that “sometimes what people need most is simply someone to talk to … a listening ear, a kind word, a reminder that they are not alone.”
Quoting Charlie’s own words, “The rain doesn’t last forever, maybe a day or a week, but not forever”, the Mayor concluded that one person’s kindness can truly save a life, and that Charlie’s bravery embodies the very best of Waterford’s community spirit.
Well done Charlie – and thank you!
