On the 16 June 2005 the UNHCR's 3rd Annual World Refugee Day  took place at the Dublin City Council office on Wood Quay and awards were given to people living in Ireland and working with asylum seekers and refugees. The awards were presented by the Lord Mayor of Dublin,  Michael Conaghan and South African Ambassador to Ireland, Melanie Verwoerd.

Catherine Butler who has worked with torture victims as part of the CCST for the past three years won a Special Judges' Award.  The CCST is very busy and Catherine would have met with each of the 314 clients dealt with last year. Catherine's work is crucial to the CCST as she always makes herself available to help clients with their problems. Her ability to deal with difficult situations in a sensitive way results in a comprehensive service delivery for the CCST.

Her person skills are invaluable to the organization. No matter how heavy her work load is she always has time to meet and talk to whoever needs her. She is always kind and helpful and gives the clients a warm welcome providing them with a safe and secure place where they feel welcome and respected. Her support is invaluable to those who have suffered the damaging effects of torture and who are now trying to survive the process of seeking refuge in a strange country and regain their lives.

Her work also involves coordinating the Outreach team, liaising with statutory and other bodies on clients' behalf and regularly writing letters to government ministers on clients' behalf.

Picture courtesy of redjade's report of the awards ceremony for indymedia.ie.