Tributes paid to former GRA president

TRIBUTES have been paid to the former president of the Garda Representative Association, Michael Kirby, who died suddenly yesterday aged 44.

Mr Kirby, who led the organisation for two years until April a year ago, leaves a wife and two sons aged 14 and 11. He remained an active member of the GRA and served as a garda based in Shannon.

GRA Limerick official Paul Browne said: “One thing that you have to say about him is that while we are all dedicated to the GRA, he was really one above the rest as regards his dedication to his members and their welfare.”

During his tenure as president, Mr Kirby fought particularly hard and publicly for better equipment for members and on health and safety.

Joe Dirwan, president of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors, said: “In AGSI we knew Michael as a fine president of the GRA and we enjoyed an excellent working relationship with him. His concern at all times was for the welfare and conditions of service of the members and their families.

“He will be badly missed by the garda representative organisations, his family and all who knew and respected him.”