Chris Fitzgerald retires

On May 4th Chris Fitzgerald, Manager Public Safety, Networks, issued his final 'stop work' notice and retired after almost 38 years' service to ESB. At a function in Nature's Way attended by family members, colleagues and retired colleagues Denis O’Leary, Head of Asset Management, paid tribute to Chris's achievements over his long career.

Chris's distinguished career began in Transmission Department in 1968 and he moved on to Tralee District and 220/400kV Station Design in Transmission Department. He moved to Distribution Department to work in the new 110kV Services Section and subsequently in Operations Section. His most recent role was as Public Safety Manager, where he made an outstanding contribution to the development of the role and the promotion of greater public safety awareness.

Chris's name will always be synonymous with the introduction and enhancement of the SCADA system and under his guidance its contribution to the effective operation of the distribution system grew enormously. However, it is probably for his last three years, which were spent as Public Safety Manager, that Chris will be best remembered by many. In this role he developed the Public Safety Plan and oversaw its implementation, brought Accident Investigation to a new level and contributed in a major way to the recent HSA/ESB Strategic Alliance.

We all join in wishing Chris and his wife Eileen a long, happy and well-earned retirement.