Latest News

Launch of the EHOA Yearbook 2009

The 27th of March 2009 saw us gather in the EHOA’s headquarters Heraghty House in Bray, County Wicklow for the launch of the 26th edition of the Environmental Health Officers Association Yearbook 2008-2009 by EHOA Fellow Mr. Donal Cooney.  This was the first time the Yearbook launch had been held in the Eastern Branch for seven years and the first Yearbook launch to be held in Heraghty House.

A large crowd were in attendance representing all eight branches, associate members, fellows, guests, contributors, advertisers and friends.

Proceedings began with Damien Lynch Chairperson of the Eastern Branch of the EHOA welcoming everyone to the launch.  Damien noted that it has been quite some time since the Eastern Branch last hosted the launch in Cassidy’s Hotel, Dublin in 2002.  He mentioned that one member of the Eastern Branch who in 2002 had written an article in that edition had also contributed an article in the current edition.  He finally introduced the three speakers to follow.

In the course of his address EHOA Chairman Maurice Mulcahy complemented the standard, quality, variety and colour of the new Yearbook, mentioning in particular the Editor Marie McCarthy’s interviewing skills; having carried out four interviews with some well known individuals.  He took the opportunity to thank the members of the Editorial Committee Andrew Byrne, Lorraine Dowling, Padraic Gorby, Damien Lynch, Laura Malone, Kay O’Connor and Ann Marie Part.  Maurice finally took a moment to remember those members who has passed away during the previous twelve months and dedicated the Yearbook to their memory.

Marie McCarthy, the editor of the Yearbook, followed Maurice Mulcahy.  During her speech she particularly acknowledged all the contributors to this years Yearbook, who took the time and effort to put pen to paper.  Marie also acknowledged all who helped to put the Yearbook together.  The contribution of publishers Business & Finance Client Publishing Division (Moranna Limited) and all advertisers was also gratefully acknowledged.  Marie warmly welcomed Mr. Donal Cooney FEHOA and thanked him for agreeing to launch the Yearbook.

Mr. Donal Cooney FEHOA, then spoke.  He said it was an honour and a privilege to be asked to launch the EHOA’s Yearbook, he said he was very happy to be among so many colleagues and friends.  He then formally launched the EHOA Yearbook 2008-2009.  Following on from this he spoke about his career, from his early days and his many experiences (and some amusing anecdotes) along the way.  In tandem with this he brought to life the birth and growth of the EHOA to today, he also informed those in attendance of the publications which existed prior to the Yearbook.

Maurice then formally closed proceedings thanking everyone for their attendance.  He then took the opportunity to invite guests to enjoy some light refreshments and to catch up with old friends and make new acquaintances.