William Thornton

On behalf of your colleagues at the International Guide Dog Federation, congratulations on the momentous occasion of your 50th Anniversary. This is an extraordinary achievement and a powerful testament to the growth and development of an exemplary organization.

The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has been a member of the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) since its inception in 1989. Members of your staff played an important role in the development of our original guidelines of operation and later in the establishment of our internationally recognized standards. Your outstanding organization has always been regarded as a model IGDF member, and we are deeply grateful for your continued support and commitment.

From your modest beginnings operating out of the original farmhouse at Model Farm, you have grown into a modern, vibrant organization. Today, you are supported by more than 1,700 volunteers and a dedicated staff of 77, while providing daily support to approximately 170 working guide dog partnerships. Over your 50-year history, you have proudly graduated more than 1,000 guide dog partnerships—an incredible legacy of service.

On many occasions, I had the pleasure of spending time with your founders, Mary Dunlop and Jim Dennehy—two truly remarkable individuals. I was introduced to them by Paul Master, who at the time was involved in the training of Irish clients at Cleve House in Exeter. Without question, Mary and Jim would be justly proud of the achievements of the organization over these past five decades. They clearly lived by the credo: “We make a living from what we get; we make a life by what we give.” The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind continues to embody this philosophy every single day.

Congratulations to the entire organization, members past and present, and a heartfelt tribute to all of your volunteers who have made this exceptional milestone possible.

William Thornton

Chair, International Guide Dog Federation