Fórsa’s Cork Health and Local Government Branch has paid tribute to former member and IMPACT president Finbarr O'Driscoll, who died last year. In memory of the stalwart activist, the branch has launched a bursary in his name to facilitate studies in an area related to trade unionism or activism.

A former councillor and mayor of Cobh, Finbarr was a loyal member and avid union activist.

Speaking at the launch of the bursary, Fórsa official Peter Nolan paid tribute to his long-time friend and union colleague, describing him as a “quintessential Corkonian” with a great conviction for social justice, balanced with a great sense of humour and acerbic wit.

“I knew Finbarr for over four decades. He would often strategize union tactics in flowing Latin quotations, which sometimes left employers – and even union colleagues – mystified, but always made them sure.

“Described by many as a great trade unionist. He was enormously proud of leading the union as president. He did so with great distinction, and served as mayor of Cobh with the same commitment and skill,” he said

Retired member and union colleague Dolores Callnan remembered her friend and spoke fondly of him at the branch’s recent AGM.

“Finbarr believed in volunteerism and championed it at every opportunity, recruiting new members and activists at every opportunity. Finbarr treated people as he found them, no matter who or what they were. Dignity and respect were paramount and it was paid back to him in bucket loads. He deserved it,” she said.

More information on the Finbarr O’Driscoll can be obtained from the Cork health and local government branch.

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