Farewell to a President

The recent passing of former President Patrick Hillery had a special significance for ESB. The Clareborn politician had a career in politics that spanned 40 years as a TD, European Commissioner and President of Ireland.

Dr Hillery's final official engagement as President was in his native county on Sunday, December 2nd 1990, when he visited Moneypoint Power Station. The President thought he was on a guided tour of the station as a guest of ESB Chief Executive Paddy Moriarity, however, Dr Hillery was caught off guard when a gathering of more than 1,000 guests greeted him. The guests included representatives of the Churches, state bodies and ESB.

During his speech to the gathering, President Hillery admitted he had been surprised, but pleased, by the seemingly impromptu party, "Paddy Moriarity got one up on me by organising this surprise party, but I'm not complaining. I'm going out in style".

Dr Hillery praised the work of ESB staff saying they provided a great public service.

ESB Chairman, Professor Charles Dillion, summed up the general feeling towards the retiring President when he said, "Dr Hillery has contributed so much to the nation as President and as a public representative."