Peter was one of 40 supporters of Sightsavers Ireland who was invited to meet President McAleese in recognition of his contribution to the charity.
The 40 supporters reflected the massive contribution made by volunteers all around the country to S
ightsavers Ireland. Peter has worked to support Sightsavers Ireland by holding a local concert in aid of the charity.
President McAleese has been the Patron of Sightsavers Ireland since it was founded in 2003. This event was a unique opportunity for the charity's long term supporters to meet the President, share their experiences of the charity and to spend an enjoyable day at the official residence of the President of Ireland.
John Fleming, CEO of Sightsavers Ireland, commented, "This has been a very special day for us. It has been a way to say thank you to our supporters, many of whom have been with us from the beginning.
"Their work is invaluable and helps people across the world by dramatically improving their lives.
"We are honoured that President McAleese has welcomed us to Áras an Uachtaráin and are very grateful to her for her continued support as our Patron."
Sightsavers works with local partners in more than 21 developing countries across Africa, Asia and the Caribbean, preventing blindness with vaccination and hygiene education programmes; restoring sight by providing cataract operations to those in need and delivering education and training to those who are permanently visually impaired.
The organisation also advocates for social inclusion and equal rights for people who are visually impaired.
There are 45 million blind people in the world and research indicates that 75% of all blindness can be prevented or cured.
