Honour for homeless hero who rescued rabbit
08 June 2011

On Tuesday, 12th July, the Animal Rights Action Network will present an award to homeless hero John Byrne who hit the headlines this week after bravely jumping into the Liffey to rescue his rabbit. The presentation will take place on O'Connell Bridge at 12.45pm.

Mr Byrne, 38, told the Evening Herald newspaper that he "cannot believe" he is going to be presented with the award.

"Ever since the Herald wrote about what happened, myself and Barney [the rabbit] have been getting so much support," he said. "But to be given an award is unbelievable. It's nice to know that despite living on the street, people still care and want to do a nice thing for me."

The Herald quoted John Carmody of ARAN as saying that the rabbit rescue was one of the most 'admirable' things he's ever seen.

"To think that he jumped off O'Connell bridge for his rabbit just shows how compassionate he is," he commented. "It has sent a shiver down my spine for such a touching act of kindness. This award is only presented to one person each year and there's no doubt John deserves it. I urge everybody to get out there on Tuesday and support him."

ARAN are also planning to attend Dublin District Court on July 21 where the 18-year-old who flung the rabbit into the Liffey will face charges.