Monday will be special night for everyone at St Joseph’s secondary

WHENEVER TK Whitaker, one of the country’s greatest ever economists, got the chance to talk about his early life, then St Joseph’s CBS always got a mention. He saw the place as a firm starting point in life - and like so many others - had nothing but good memories from his time there.

TK passed away in January 2017 at the age of 100 and was described by several taoisigh as the State’s finest public servant. He was named Irish Man of the 20th century in a public vote in 2001.

One might presume that the majority of the possessions of such a great man would be heading for the National Archives - but no. They are going to the Joey’s! His family have graciously loaned the school many of his documents so they can go on public display.

They range from diplomas to various awards and titles. The Whitaker Collection will be unveiled at a special night in the school on Monday January 15 at 8pm. As part of the night, tours of the school will take place at 7.15pm and 7.30pm.

The school will also be relaunching their past pupils union under the banner of St Joseph’s CBS Whitaker Alumni.

‘It will be a big night for us and we’d love all past pupils of the school to come along and be part of it,’ principal David Madden stated.

The aim is to link up all the past students of the school going down the years.

‘We have a lot of invitations sent out and we’d hope to have up to 30 retired teachers there too.’

As well as securing documents from the Whitaker collection, the school has also been given his record collection for use in the music room.

‘All the documents have been scanned and can be seen on the school website as well,’ the principal stated.