Journalist Cliodna O’Flynn Awarded British Empire Medal for Service to Canary Islands’ English-Speaking Community
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A dedicated journalist serving the English-speaking population of the Canary Islands has been honored with the British Empire Medal (honorary). Cliodna (Clio) O’Flynn, a resident of Adeje’s Callao Salvaje for over two decades, received the prestigious award from the United Kingdom ambassador to Spain, Sir Alex Ellis, at the Adeje Convent earlier this month.
Bridging Cultures in Southern Tenerife
O’Flynn has become a pivotal figure for British and English-speaking residents in southern Tenerife, providing crucial information and support, particularly navigating the complexities following Brexit. For more than ten years, she has hosted “Adeje English Time” on Radio Sur Adeje 107.9 FM, a program lauded for its clear explanations of administrative procedures and guidance on citizenship matters.
“Her role during the COVID pandemic was fundamental to inform the resident population,” stated a senior official, highlighting O’Flynn’s commitment to disseminating vital information through various media channels – written reports, radio broadcasts, and video updates.
A Multi-Faceted Role Within Adeje’s Government
While recognized for her independent journalism, O’Flynn also serves as an employee of the Municipal Public Services Company of Adeje (EMSA), working closely with the City Council’s Communication Bureau. Her responsibilities extend beyond communication, encompassing active collaboration with departments focused on Social Welfare, Protocol, and Tourism. She manages the Adeje Town Hall news blog and its associated social media platforms, ensuring comprehensive outreach to the foreign resident community.
O’Flynn’s long-term residence in Callao Salvaje, a notably multicultural neighborhood within Adeje, has fostered deep integration into the local community. This connection has allowed her to effectively advocate for the rights and responsibilities of foreign residents, facilitating a stronger dialogue with the City Council.
“Clio O’Flynn’s involvement has been of great importance because she has achieved something that many of us long for: uniting different towns,” remarked Manuel Luis Méndez, councilor of the Presidency Area.
From Ireland to the Canary Islands: A Distinguished Career
O’Flynn’s journalistic career extends far beyond the Canary Islands. Originally from Ireland, she brings a wealth of experience, including a leadership role at National Radio of Ireland (RTE) in the 1990s. This background has led to ongoing collaborations with prominent media outlets such as RTE and the BBC, where she is frequently consulted to provide context on issues related to the Canary Islands and Spain. She is particularly valued for her ability to debunk misinformation and address emerging hoaxes circulating in the United Kingdom.
The Adeje City Council has formally congratulated O’Flynn on this well-deserved distinction, recognizing her unwavering dedication to serving citizens and her vital role as an information bridge between the Canary Islands and the English-speaking community.
