A LIMERICK auctioneer has been named President of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV).
Lisa Kearney, director of Rooney Auctioneers, has been appointed as president of the professional institute for the coming year.
The IPAV held its annual conference in Limerick this past Friday (June 14) at the Greenhills Hotel, marking the first time the conference has been held outside of Dublin in a number of years.
Speaking about the year ahead, Ms Kearney said that inclusivity will be an important part of her tenure.
“Being president of IPAV is not solely about one person, it entails the collective participation of all members, board members, and staff. Equality, diversity, and inclusion is extremely important to me and so I was delighted and proud to introduce and implement an EDI policy at IAPV,” she said.
“To be part of and belong to an institute that breaks down barriers, embraces diversity, and advocates for equality is genuinely inspiring. This policy guarantees that each of our members, irrespective of gender, race, sexual orientation, or background feel appreciated, listened to, recognised, and included,” she explained.
Mental health will also play an important part of Ms Kearney’s tenure, she said.
“In addition to our dedication to EDI, I am equally passionate about tackling the issue of mental health within our industry. It is essential that we cultivate an environment where mental well-being takes precedence and is de-stigmatised.”
The IPAV president continued, saying that “our institute joined forces last year with the groundbreaking mental health awareness campaign titled ‘The Elephant in the Room’, championed by the inspiring Mr Brent Pope”.
“Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall wellbeing and by openly discussing and addressing it, we break down the barriers that too often prevent individuals from seeking help,” she explained.
“By being part of this great campaign, we are contributing to a broader movement – a movement towards creating a space where every person, like you and me, can be their true, authentic selves without fear or judgment.”
