In Pictures: Thirty one dedicated teachers honoured as they retire

A SECOND tranche of teachers have been honoured by Limerick city INTO for shaping the lives of children for decades upon decades.

The branch had to hold two events for the total of 60 men and women who said farewell to their classrooms between November 2019 and December 2022. The functions had to be postponed due to Covid-19. Between the 60 teachers they have taught for over 2,000 years.

Ruairi Walsh, chairperson Limerick City INTO, said he was privileged to finally be able to welcome one and all to their second retirement event in the Greenhills Hotel.

“It is fantastic that we can finally honour you all in person here tonight after the uncertain times of previous years. We all agreed that celebrating your many years as INTO members and dedicated teachers was a priority regardless of the high volume of retirees we have accumulated since our last retirement function in 2019.

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“This is the second of two retirement nights – tonight we honour 31 teachers, 17 of whom are present here tonight, this after celebrating the careers of 29 retiring teachers from the branch a fortnight ago,” said Mr Walsh.

He said throughout their long and devoted careers they have shown “enthusiasm and dedication in educating the hundreds of pupils who were fortunate enough to pass through your classrooms”.

“Also, the commitment you have shown as members of the INTO through the good and let's say more challenging times have helped strengthen our union and have given all your colleagues a wonderful example to follow.

“As many of you know at this retirement night we are paying tribute to a number of stalwarts of Limerick City INTO – Ann McMahon, former branch secretary; Catherine Walsh, branch organiser; Joe Lyons, branch media co-ordinator and Mike O’Sullivan, who a few years ago was standing here as chairperson. The aforementioned people have been very active and influential members of the Limerick City INTO branch,” said Mr Walsh, who wished all the retirees the very best “in your future endeavours”.

“It is the end of an era but the beginning of a whole new chapter in your lives, and long may you enjoy it!” said Mr Walsh.