Three veteran Maasdriel councillors awarded royal and municipal honours for decades of service
Three former councillors in Maasdriel have been recognised for their long-standing dedication to the community. Their contributions span decades, shaping local politics, economy, and social cohesion. Residents benefit from their legacy of stability and leadership.
| Name | Honour | Years of Service | Political Party | Key Roles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert van Dijk | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau | 12 | CDA | Faction leader, Society and Finance chair |
| John Leijdekkers | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau | 20 | GroenLinks | Councillor, alderman, civic committees |
| Ko Hooijmans | Municipal honorary medal | 40+ | VVD | Councillor, alderman (3 terms), local economy advocate |
| Municipality | Maasdriel | - | - | Issuer of honours |
The municipality of Maasdriel is responsible for local governance, including recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. These honours reflect the municipality’s role in acknowledging civic engagement and leadership that strengthens local democracy and social fabric.
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Royal honours and honorary medal for former Maasdriel councillors
During the municipal council meeting on Tuesday 31 March, the municipality of Maasdriel presented several honours to (former) councillors. They received these distinctions for their long-standing and exceptional commitment to the local community. Two councillors were appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau. One councillor was awarded the municipal honorary medal for an exceptionally long period of service.
Royal honours
Mr Robert van Dijk (CDA) received a royal honour for his 12 years of service on the municipal council. Since joining in 2014, he has held various roles, including faction leader and chair of the Society and Finance committee. During a period of political challenges, he succeeded in maintaining stability and cohesion within the council and his faction.
Mr John Leijdekkers (GroenLinks) was also appointed a Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau. He has been active in Maasdriel politics since 2006, serving as a councillor, alderman and member of various civic committees. Leijdekkers is known for his collegial attitude, extensive network and constructive contribution to the functioning of the municipal council. His commitment is characterised by involvement and administrative continuity.
Municipal honorary medal
Mr Ko Hooijmans (VVD) received the honorary medal from the municipality of Maasdriel in recognition of his exceptional commitment. With a political career spanning more than 40 years, during which he served multiple terms as councillor and three times as alderman, he is regarded as one of the most experienced and influential politicians in the municipality.
In addition to his political work, Hooijmans has contributed to the local economy, particularly in the mushroom sector, and to various sports clubs. His long-standing involvement and extensive knowledge of local issues have made him a key pillar within the Maasdriel community.
Bridging role
With these honours, the municipality of Maasdriel expresses its deep appreciation for the commitment, involvement and bridging role of these three individuals. Each of them has made a long-standing contribution to the development and well-being of the municipality and its residents in their own way.