Waterford McDonalds workers with Down Syndrome celebrate 55 years of work

“He takes great pride in his work and he's been with the company for 25 years,” said Siobhan, who added his colleagues love having him around.
 
“It educates staff on how people with Down Syndrome bring extra happiness to the workplace,” she said.
 
“Andrew and Kevin always come to work with a smile on their faces.
 
“They tell it as it is. They bring diversity and a different dynamic to the restaurant.”
 
Siobhan described Kevin as “a bit of a joker” whom everyone adores because “he brings so much joy” with him.
 
“He's funny, he's witty, he loves his birthday - literally after Christmas he starts talking about his birthday.”

Siobhan said McDonald’s feels very strongly about giving everyone a chance in the workplace.
 
“People from every walk of life, every individual brings something different to the workplace,” she said.
 
“Kevin and Andrew have a great relationship with all their colleagues,” she said.
 
“They really enjoy working alongside the rest of the staff and their energy makes the McDonald’s experience more special for all of us.”
 
Franchisee Joe Byrne, who owns and runs both Waterford restaurants, said they feel lucky to have Kevin and Andrew on the team.
 
“They’ve been part of the McDonald’s family in Waterford for five and a half decades which is incredible,” he said.
 
“We are so thankful to have them working alongside us and we really appreciate their dedication and enthusiasm.
 
“Hopefully they’ll stay with us for another couple of decades at least.”