Limerick teachers honoured for half a century of excellence in education

TWO TEACHERS who have given over a half a century of dedicated service to the INTO and to education in Limerick were honoured by their colleagues at a special function in the Woodlands House Hotel, Adare.

Ann McMahon and Catherine Walsh touched countless young lives in classrooms. Ms McMahon, a native of Castlemahon, served as branch secretary of Limerick City INTO for over twenty years - one of the largest and most active in the country with over 1,000 members.

A graduate of Mary Immaculate College, Ms McMahon taught in Castleconnell NS before moving to St Augustine’s Special School, then based in Augustinian Lane in the city.

Later, she worked with the visiting teacher service for Travellers before that was abolished as part of austerity cuts following the financial crash.

Ms McMahon then took on the role of principal of St Joseph’s BNS in Rathkeale where she served as principal until retirement in 2020.

Former Ballybrown NS principal and long-time Limerick INTO representative, Joe Lyons said Ms McMahon has been involved in many educational projects on a voluntary basis where “her knowledge and wisdom are greatly valued”.

He recalled that she was secretary when Limerick hosted INTO Congress in 2002, the only time it has been held here.

“With approximately 800 delegates , plus guests, it was a huge undertaking,” said Mr Lyons.

Also honoured was Ms Walsh who spent her entire teaching career in the Salesian Primary school in Fernbank on the northside of Limerick city.

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“In trade union circles, she was tasked with recruiting young teachers to the union and maintaining accurate records of membership. Her warm and welcoming personality ensured she was a great success in this role,” said Mr Lyons.

Branch chairperson Stephanie Collins made a presentation to both teachers while tributes were paid to them by a number of speakers.

Among the guests in attendance were Tom O’Sullivan, former assistant general secretary of INTO; Ann Horan, Glin, incoming vice-president of the union; former members of the national executive Margaret Bernard, Adare and Séamus Long, Monaleen and incoming national executive member Tracie Tobin.