WITH the unexpected death of Joe Rooney, general secretary of the Irish Vocational Education Authority, Irish education has lost one of its most experienced and talented professionals. Born in Galway city 55 years ago, he was educated locally in Fr. Griffin Road Vocational School, before transferring to Colaiste Gharman, Co. Wexford and University College, Galway. He taught with Co. Dublin VEC before returning to Galway.
is quality was quickly recognised in his election as vice-chairman of the City of Galway VEC and president of the Teachers' Union of Ireland. His zest for life manifested itself in his love for the sky; he qualified as a pilot and was a sports fisherman and golfer. He rose to the rank of captain in the FCA, and was a prizewinning all-army marksman.
He was appointed the first full-time general secretary of the IVEA in 1980. To his dedicated staff, he was a leader and respected friend. He professionally serviced the standing council of the IVEA and organised important educational conferences each year. Joe was an unfailing resource and support for all VECs representing the vocational sector on industrial relations issues, and in the negotiation of national agreements on pay and conditions in the public sector.
His name will remain synonymous with the VEC sector. For over a quarter of a century he made a huge contribution to Irish education, and when the history of this period is written the honourable and dedicated role of Joe Rooney as professional educator will be fully recognised. He passionately defended the VEC system and regarded VECs as a great and undervalued asset.
Joe was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather, who is dearly missed by his loving wife Della and devoted family, colleagues and many friends throughout the country. Ar dheis laimh De go raibh a anam dilis!