‘Tireless champion’ of Irish in UK hailed by Higgins
IRISH publisher Paddy Cowan, who died in London earlier this week, was “a tireless champion of the Irish community in Britain”, according to President Michael D. Higgins.
Tributes have been paid to the Longford native, led by Mr Higgins, who said he was “greatly saddened” by the news of the death of Mr Cowan, an entrepreneur and publisher of The Irish World, a paper providing news for Irish people and their families across the UK.
Country music star Nathan Carter also paid tribute: “Paddy gave me my first award in music and got me my first gig in London.”
He added that he was a man who did a lot for young aspiring musicians.
Ireland’s Ambassador to the UK, Adrian O’Neill, described Mr Cowan as “a man of immense energy and exuberance” who was at the heart of the Irish community for many years.
Also paying tribute was
Ireland’s Ambassador to the US, Dan Mulhall, who said: “We got to know him well during our time in London. He was a pillar of the Irish community in Britain and always great company.”
The Irish World said on social media on Tuesday that it was with “immense sadness” that it announced the death of Mr Cowan (78), saying he died “peacefully with his family by his bedside.”
Meanwhile, the Tir Chonaill Gaels paid tribute to Mr Cowan in a statement yesterday, saying that “he was a great fund raiser for so many charities”.
“The Irish World awards were a fantastic celebration over the years and helped many organisations in Britain.
“He loved to chat on football especially and had a great sense of humour.
“He was also well known for his love of a game of golf and the craic.
“Paddy will not be forgotten and we will be forever grateful for the impact he has had on the Irish community in London and Britain throughout his life.”