McNamara, Martin
June 11, 2011It was with great sorrow that the people of West Limerick learned of the untimely passing of Martin McNamara.
He was principal of Newcastle West Vocational School for 17 years and in total served 32 years in the school. When he first began teaching, there were 143 pupils in the Vocational School, and by his retirement, they had grown to over 400. He saw the introduction of the Leaving Certificate in 1974 and Computer Studies in 1980. He was instrumental in introducing pre-employment courses for boys and girls in the 80's when opportunities for young people were very limited. He continued the tradition of Eamon O'Connell of entering students for the Young Scientists Exhibition each year. The competition that time was held during the Christmas Holidays and he enjoyed numerous successes with his students.
He had a keen interest in career guidance and was an expert in advising his pupils of job opportunities long before teachers had to complete a special course in this field.
He had a great love of football and had the unique distinction of being a member of the Limerick County Minor football team which won the Munster title in 1956. This feat has not been achieved since. He applied his experience in the football field in training the students in the school and having brought several Munster titles to Newcastle West Vocational School, he had the ultimate pleasure of seeing his students play in Croke Park in the 1980 U16 All-Ireland Final. It should be remembered at that time, teams were not graded into divisions.
There was but one competition for the different age groups. Martin was a strong supporter of the Vocational Education system and was a past pupil of Newcastle West Vocational School. He was a keen advocate of adult education and oversaw the popular demand for night classes in the school. He as happy to facilitate the development of the school of music during his years as principal. He was always 'fighting' for better school facilities and he played a new second level school- Desmond College which replaced the old Vocational School.
Martin was an excellent science teacher who had a great love of his subject and the highest regard for his staff and pupils. He was determined to cater for students of all abilities and saw to it that special education was well provided for within the school.
When the new school was being planned, he ensured that the gaelcholaiste, while sharing all the modern facilities, would have a separate campus of its own, so as to maintain its identity.
Martin was blessed with good health and was never absent from school through illness. He found it difficult to understand people being absent with 'minor ailments'. He was a very generous person and was always very supportive of, and helpful to, all who knew him. He was always very appreciative of the support of County Limerick VEC and always maintained a good relationship with all the authorities involved in education. He always led by example. He was a man of educational vision and foresaw and implemented schemes and initiatives in the school as time demanded. His ability to overcome difficulties was amazing and no problem, no matter how big, would detract from his sense of humour and light heartedness, His loud and hearty laugh could be often heard throughout the corridors of education.
He was always upbeat and positive and these personal traits, as well as many others, had an infectious influence on everyone throughout the school. We will miss him dearly.
Aireoimid a cheile.
To his wife Ellis, sons Donal and Tommie, daughters Christina and Aine and to his extended family, we offer our deepest sympathies.
"You have left us with fond and pleasant memories".
Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a anam dilis.
Courtesy of the Limerick Leader
11th June 2011 Tweet
