It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of our dear former colleague Maura O’Connor just before Christmas. Maura worked for IMPACT for over a decade. Working closely with official Matt Staunton she looked after the members from the Civil Service; Education; Health and Welfare; Local Government; and Services and Enterprises divisions.

Maura stood out for her pleasant demeanour and ability to connect with individual members that made contact with us in head office over those years. When Maura retired, just a few years ago, she looked forward to retirement with her beloved Padraic. Sadly, Maura suffered a long illness which she very bravely, and with great dignity, faced and fought to the end. She is mourned by many in IMPACT and is missed every single day.

Catherine (Kitty) Dunne

Just before Christmas we heard of the death of Catherine (Kitty) Dunne, aged 90. Kitty was the first female president of the Association of Officers of Taxes, a pre-curser to the former Tax Officials branch of IMPACT, back in 1968. For a woman to be elected to such a position in the 1960s was a great achievement, and made headline news in the Sunday Press at the time.

Kitty joined the civil service in 1941. She learned of her appointment to the post of writing assistant by a telegram written in old Irish.  She became involved in the Association because she wished to oppose unfairness, defend public sector pay and conditions and to represent her members.

She served with distinction in the civil service, both in Dublin and London, until the late 1980s. She retired at assistant principal level from the Revenue Commissioners. Throughout her career Kitty was committed to working for the welfare and advancement of her staff and colleagues by whom she is fondly remembered. Our condolences go to her family. May she rest in peace.