Gas Networks Ireland’s choir, Foster and the People, has recorded a powerful cover of Snow Patrol’s ‘Run’ to raise funds and awareness for two Cork based charities, Headway: Brain Injury Services & Support and My Canine Companion: Autism & Therapy Services.
The recording took place at Gas Networks Ireland’s headquarters in Cork City and is now available to watch on YouTube, with a fundraising campaign launched via iDonate here. The initiative was inspired by employees’ personal interactions with the charities alongside Gas Networks Ireland’s legacy of supporting charity organisations across the country and with this in mind the company has made a donation to each charity to kick start the fundraising drive.
More than just a song
Commenting on the initiative, Gas Networks Ireland’s Choir Director Tom Foster said:
“It’s been an incredible journey bringing this recording to life alongside my colleagues here at Gas Networks Ireland. This project isn’t just about music – it’s about using our voices to make a difference. We are honoured to support Headway and My Canine Companion and help shine a light on their vital work”.
Esther Anna Bennett, Rehabilitation Officer at Headway said:
“We were delighted to join forces with the team at Gas Networks Ireland for the recording. Dedication and talent have helped shine a spotlight on the services we provide to people affected by a brain injury - including stroke - and the resulting donation will make a meaningful difference to the patients and families we support.”
Niall Ruddy, CEO of My Canine Companion said:
“We were over the moon to join Gas Networks Ireland for the charity recording. Support from initiatives like One Song One Voice help us to expand our autism service dog programmes that provide support to families all over Ireland. Kitty, Jurgen and Mescal – three of our wonderful therapy dogs – were also delighted to take part in the recording on the day!”
Watch and support
Donations to the fundraising campaign will remain open over the next few months.
The full recording can be found on YouTube here and the iDonate link is available here.
A culture of wellbeing and support at Gas Networks Ireland
This initiative is part of Gas Networks Ireland’s ongoing commitment to employee wellbeing and community support. The company has long championed workplace wellbeing through programmes such as Time to Talk Mental Health Programme, Work Safe Home Safe and dedicated occupational health and wellbeing supports. Last year Gas Networks Ireland was awarded IBEC’s prestigious KeepWell Mark, recognising its strong performance across eight pillars of workplace wellness.
Gas Networks Ireland has also taken steps to build a more inclusive workplace. Through its diversity, equity and inclusion iBelong programme and six dedicated employee resource groups, the organisation supports a diverse and thriving workforce:
- The Neurodiversity and Ability Network raises awareness and fosters understanding of neurodiversity and disability across the business including how we can further support employees throughout their career.
- The Rainbow Network actively promotes inclusion for LGBTQ+ colleagues – marked this month with the raising of the Pride flag at the company’s Dublin and Cork offices.
- The Women’s Network, Family Network, Culture and Ethnicity Network and the newly formed NextGen Network each play key roles in improving the employee experience through connection, advocacy, and shared learning.
In 2024, the company introduced new progressive policies including a Menopause Policy, Fertility Treatment Supports, and a Holiday Swap Policy, further reinforcing its commitment to supporting colleagues through every stage of life.
Supporting communities nationwide
In addition to supporting employees, Gas Networks Ireland is committed to supporting the communities in which it operates. The company partners with charities and community groups across the country with a strong focus on education and employee volunteering. Initiatives include supporting STEM education through programmes like ‘Energize’ delivered in partnership with Junior Achievement Ireland, which aims to spark students’ interest in STEM and inspire the next generation of science and engineering professionals. Gas Networks Ireland’s employees also volunteer to support a wide range of local projects and community initiatives, helping to create a lasting, positive impact across Ireland.
