Death of former CEO of Co Louth VEC Dr Peter
The death has taken place of Dr Peter Connolly retired CEO, Louth VEC,,Seaford Gardens, Blackrock, Dundalk. in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. on Monday June 26th June.
A native of Dundalk, Dr. Connolly attended the CBS in Chapel Street.
He started his career as a lecturer in Belfast Institute of Technology upon completion of his PhD in Queens University and then moved to the City College in Norwich.
He then worked for the Department of Education and had responsibility for chemistry and technical school examinations and applications to the European Social Fund for grant aid to Regional Technical Colleges, pre-employment courses and apprenticeships.
He joined the VEC as chief executive in 1977 and was only the fifth to hold the position since 1902, retiring after 30 years service on February 14, 2007.
During his time in that role, he had overseen the transformation of Dundalk Regional Technical College to Dundalk Institute of Technology and had always advocated the importance of apprenticeship courses as a gateway to employment.
He was also in charge when major capital projects were carried out including DIFE in Drogheda, the computer room and gym at Bush Post Primary School as well as the running track project in conjunction with Glenmore AC, Scoil Uí Mhuirí, the upgrading of O’Fiaich College and St. Oliver’s Community College.
Dr Connolly is survived by his wife Peggy née Bourton and children, Garfield, Joanne, John, Roseanne and David, and brother Harry, and sister Bernadine and his grandchildren Poppy, James, Feilim, Rory, Sophie, Seth and Reuben. sonin-law Rob, and daughters-inlaw Shane and Ellie and David’s partner Emer, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his brother late Dr. Noel Connolly.
The funeral Mass was celebrated in St. Oliver Plunkett Church, Blackrock, on Thursday at 11am, followed by private cremation.