It was with deep sorrow that we learned of the passing of our colleague and friend, Professor Emeritus John Coolahan, on Sunday (3rd June, 2018).
John was Professor and Head of this department for 17 years and during this time he profoundly influenced his colleagues and students. Former students will remember his passion for the History and Structure of Irish Education and all will remember his support, encouragement, collegiality and leadership.
Beyond this department, John played a significant role in the development of the educational landscape across all sectors, both nationally and internationally. In the 1990s alone, he particularly played a pivotal role in the development of educational policy across the early childhood, primary, post-primary and adult education sectors.
Last October, we gathered with John, family and friends in Maynooth University to celebrate his contribution to and impact on education in Ireland. In an erudite contribution that night John urged that we continue to be confident in our educational provision and to continue to develop the education system from the current position of strength.
We offer our sincere condolences to Mary, Marie-Louise, Iseult, Deirdre, William and to all his family.
We will miss his wisdom and kindness. Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís.