20.05.2011
Attending the 60th anniversary celebrations at Shannon College, the Chancellor Dr Maurice Manning extended congratulations to all associated with the college, to the staff, the students and the alumni who provide outstanding support for the college.
In the course of his address at the College, the Chancellor referred to the death of Dr Garret Fitzgerald: ‘Dr Garret FitzGerald came here on more than one occasion. Garret wished the college well and as Chancellor, took great interest in its continuing progress. I know that all who are here today will join with me in mourning his passing earlier this week. His death is a great loss to our country and to so many different sectors of Irish life. His loss is particularly felt in the University of which he was such a great champion. His belief in the transforming capacity of education for the individual was unshakeable. As NUI Chancellor, he argued persuasively that not only was it in the interests of the individual, but it also represented enlightened self-interest for the State and for the universities to widen social participation in higher education. Happily there is evidence that initiatives in this area are beginning to bear fruit.’
Referring to other national events happening around now, the Chancellor said that ‘This week, we have experienced what must rank as the most significant and most profound céad míle fáilte in the history of the State. Next week Ireland will host another very special visitor when the President of the United States comes to visit us. This time of great welcomes and distinguished international visitors is a very good time for Shannon, as a college of hotel management, a college dedicated to the professionalisation of welcoming and hosting visitors, to hold its celebration and to focus on the role and unique contribution of the college.’
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