Irish international soccer players Damien Duff, Robbie Keane and Richard Dunne were awarded the honorary freedom of the county of South Dublin at a ceremony in Tallaght last night.
The three Dublin internationals, described by Mayor of South Dublin County Council Billy Gogarty as "great local lads" were honoured in recognition of the professional achievements and their status as "exemplary role models to the youth of the county".
A large crowd of family and friends of the players and local school children packed out the county hall to watch the ceremony. Dunne from Killinarden, Tallaght, and Keane from Jobstown, were present to receive their awards, while Duff, who is originally from Ballyboden but could not attend, was represented by his brother Gerard.
The three sports stars were the "pride of the county" Mr Gogarty said.
"These great players have shown that with the right guidance and determination youngsters throughout our county can aspire to such dizzy heights."
They had risen from playing from small local teams to represent their country he said.
"The powerful example of these three sportsmen should be an inspiration to the youth of our county that you can achieve your dreams and ambitions by hard work and determination. Lads we're proud of you."
