Eddie Collins was well liked by both staff and students

Eddie Collins was well liked by both staff and students

By Mary Dennehy

TRIBUTES have been made to former Minister and Waterford Mayor Eddie Collins who, based at TU Dublin – Tallaght from 1992 to 2006, passed away this week.

The father-of-two, who had five granddaughters, passed away peacefully at the age of 78 in University Hospital Waterford on Monday, March 4.

Eddie Collins RIP

Eddie Collins 

A former Fine Gael TD and junior minister, Mr Collins arrived in Tallaght in September 1992, when the new Institute of Technology was opening.

Mr Collins lived between Bancroft and Waterford for the 14 years he was working in Tallaght.

Damien Roche, the Head of Business and Humanities at TU Dublin – Tallaght campus, also started in the college in 1992, and interviewed Mr Collins for the Head of Department of Business Management position.

Remembering back, Mr Roche, who is still based at the Tallaght campus, said: “Eddie was here from 1992 until 2006.

“He was here when the college first opened and helped, with a team of lecturers, to develop our degree in Creative Digital Media, our part-time business programme and our fulltime business degree.

“One of the things about Eddie is that he was extremely well like by both staff and students.

“He encouraged students, especially those thinking of dropping out.

“He was also able to bring his practical background into the classroom as well as the theory, and that’s what students liked.”

In recent days, the lasting influence Mr Collins has had on TU Dublin – Tallaght has been discussed by staff.

“He was a very strong character with very strong views and was a strong presence at meetings because he really cared for students – and stood up for staff hugely”, Mr Roche said.

“Eddie will certainly be remembered fondly by all academic staff. 

“He was extremely supportive of staff and students… and I think he would be very pleased with how the college has grown and is now part of TU Dublin.”

Mr Roche, who has remained friends with Mr Collins over the years, attended the former lecturer’s funeral mass in Waterford last Thursday, March 7.

TAGS
Share This