Tributes pour in for much loved school headmaster

TRIBUTES have been pouring in for much-loved principal and “wonderful leader” Padraic Carney who was tragically killed while cycling last week.
Principal of St Louis Senior Primary School in Rathmines, Mr Carney, (53) was “a true gentleman” who was “widely loved and respected”.
He received serious injuries when his bike collided with a vehicle near his home in Rathfarnham and was taken to Tallaght Hospital before being transferred to Beaumont Hospital, where he was pronounced dead last Tuesday.
Chairperson of the school’s board of management Jake Byrne said: “This is a terrible tragedy for Padraic’s immediate and extended family, his wide circle of friends and the school community in Rathmines.
“We are all deeply saddened by his sudden and untimely death.
“Padraic was a wonderful leader in the school. His infectious enthusiasm for the job of teaching children and his warm and charming personality made him most popular with pupils, parents, staff and all who came to know him in his job.
“Offers of support have been pouring into the school which has expressed its appreciation…
“We have been in contact with his family, who have requested that their need for privacy at this sad and difficult time be respected. Our sympathy and thoughts are with Padraic’s family and friends.”
Mr Carney had previously served as principal of Scoil Aine Naofa in Lucan from 2010 until 2014.
In a statement, Scoil Aine Naofa Parents’ Association offered their condolences to Mr Carney’s family, including his wife and three daughters.
“We at the parents’ association offer our deepest condolences to the Carney family at this terribly difficult time,” read the statement on social media.
“We will remember Padraic as a wonderful, friendly, enthusiastic and dedicated principal. May he rest in peace.”
Locals also paid tribute to Mr Carney.
“The world has lost one of it’s true gentlemen. RIP Padraic you leave a huge hole in the world,” wrote Mary Dwyer.
Valerie Greaney said: “Great principal for Scoil Aine Naofa, lovely man. May he rest in peace and thinking of his family.”
Mr Carney also worked for Frontline Security on matchdays in the premium level of Croke Park.
Cllr William Lavelle said: “I was shocked and saddened to learn of the sad passing of Mr Padraic Carney, former acting principal of Scoil Aine Naofa, Esker,” said Cllr Lavelle
“In recent times, Padraic served as principal of St Louis SNS in Rathmines.
“Even after he left Lucan I would regularly meet Padraic in Croke Park.
“I wish to express my condolences to Padraic’s family, friends and colleagues.”
Investigating gardai are appealing for witnesses of the collision. Anyone with information is asked to contact Rathfarnham Garda Station on 01 666 6500, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.