Loyal Bernie applauded for enthusiasm and drive

By Mary Dennehy

A SPECIAL party was recently held for Partas employee Bernie Black who, after 24 ‘loyal and enthusiastic’ years with the local organisation, retired.

Bernie began her career with Partas, which was then Get Tallaght Working, in October 1992, and worked alongside former CEOs Micheal Johnson and Gerry Doyle before taking up her role as Community Employment (CE) Supervisor in 1996.

According to Diane Richmond, assistant Partas CEO: “Bernie has managed the CE project incredibly well over the years, and her excellent performance has been well recognised by FAS and the DSP [Department of Social Protection].

“The number of CE participants on the scheme increased from 15 to 38, and there has been so many people who have come through the Partas CE scheme, under Bernie’s supervision, who have gone on to achieve so many great things.”

At Bernie’s retirement party, Ms Richmond spoke of Bernie’s loyalty and commitment to both her work and her colleagues while John Kearns, Partas CEO, applauded Bernie’s enthusiasm and drive.

The kindness that underlined all of the work carried out by Bernie was also highlighted by Partas chairperson, Aidan Thomas.

Ms Richmond said: “The night was a fantastic success, and Bernie was surrounded by so many colleagues and friends in the Bolbrook Enterprise Centre.

“Bernie will be greatly missed by her colleagues at Partas, but will be a tremendous asset to the community as she vows to occupy her time through voluntary work.”