15/06/2026
Chief Executive of the Western Trust, Karen Hargan, has extended her warmest congratulations to Dr Pat Podmore, Consultant Dermatologist, Estates Volunteer, Maurice Neely and South West Acute Hospital Chaplains, The Very Reverend Dean Kenneth Hall and Rt Revd Monsignor Peter O’Reilly, on their much deserved recognition in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
Dr Podmore has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to Dermatology in the North West. Throughout her career, Dr Podmore has played a key role in developing dermatology services within the Western Trust, improving access to care and outcomes for patients across the region.
Maurice Neely, a volunteer with the Trust’s Estates Team, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to health and social care in Northern Ireland. For more than 47 years, Maurice has been a dedicated volunteer, providing invaluable support to the Estates Team and helping to maintain the grounds at Altnagelvin Hospital.
The Very Reverend Dean Kenneth Hall and Rt Revd Monsignor Peter O’Reilly both received Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) having been recognised for services to reconciliation and peacebuilding in Enniskillen and County Fermanagh.
Paying tribute to Dr Podmore, Chief Executive Karen Hargan said:
“This honour is truly deserved and reflects Dr Podmore’s longstanding commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred dermatology services in the Western Trust.
“She has made a significant impact on patient care and outcomes and is highly respected by both colleagues and patients for her professionalism, expertise and dedication.”
Speaking about Mr Maurice Neely, Karen Hargan said:
“Maurice has contributed an exceptional 47 years of voluntary service with the Western Trust, where he has made a lasting and meaningful contribution to the Trust’s Estate through his work with the Estates Grounds Maintenance Team and this in turn has benefited hugely our patients, visitors, their families and our staff.”
Michael McCloskey, Head of Operations and Maintenance in the Western Trust added:
“Maurice’s award is a wonderful recognition of his dedication and commitment as a volunteer within the Trust. Maurice began volunteering in 1979 at the former Strabane Hospital site. In 1982 through a New Horizons volunteer placement Maurice came across to Altnagelvin and Gransha Hospital sites and we are delighted to have had him with us ever since.
“For four days each week, Maurice volunteers outdoors in all weather conditions, contributing to the maintenance of the Trust’s expansive estate of over 90 sites and 360 buildings. His work includes winter gritting, grass cutting, garden maintenance during spring and summer, and general grounds maintenance across hospital sites.
“Maurice consistently approaches his role with pride, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to high standards. His contribution to supporting our Estates team has made a real difference, and he is greatly valued by staff and patients alike. We are very grateful for the time and effort he has given over many years. Thank you Maurice.”
Commenting on the outstanding contribution of our Hospital Chaplains, Karen added:
“Both Chaplains provide person centred spiritual, pastoral and emotional support to patients, families and staff, and have made a lasting contribution to community wellbeing across the region.”
Karen concluded:
“On behalf of myself and Trust Board, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to Dr Podmore, Mr Neely, The Very Reverend Dean Kenneth Hall and Monsignor Peter O’Reilly on this much deserved recognition. Their achievements reflect the dedication, compassion and excellence we see every day in our communities across the Western Trust area.”