Surprise as Peadar Kearney steps down

OCTOBER 1988

LONG-STANDING county board secretary/ treasurer Peadar Kearney takes his colleagues by surprise when he announces his retirement.

He is one of the county’s best-known GAA officials, first elected rúnaí/cisteoir at the 1956 convention in succession to the late Paddy Duffy, Dogheda.

Mr Kearney says he will not be going forward at the next annual convention.

‘Having considered the matter for some time and after discussing it with certain officers of the county committee, I am satisfied that the decision I have arrived at is in the best interests of myself, my family and the GAA in Co. Louth.’

He believes the most important task facing the county committee is the appointment of an energetic secretary/treasurer who would give unbroken service for the next 20-30 years.

Mr Kearney thanks all the officers, club officials, various GAA bodies and committees and the Gaels of Louth.

‘I would also like to thank my good wife, Maura, and all the members of my family for their support at all times.’

At a meeting of Louth county board, honorary president and former chairman, JJ Matthews, recalls it was his pleasure to direct Peadar on the path to secretary in 1956.

If he has a fault at all, it is that he is ‘ too honest’, Mr Matthew continues.

He urges the county to heed the advice to appoint a committed person to stay the course for at least two decades.

Dreadnots delegate Peter Conry adds there will be considerable regret in the Clogherhead area when the news spreads.

Central Council representative, Seán Murray, another former chairman, believes the position will never again be as capably and as conscientiously filled.