Surrounded by his family, his many colleagues and friends from St Macartan's College, warm wishes were extended to Mr. Joe Kirke on the occasion of his retirement from teaching. Warm tributes were extended to Mr. Kirke by Mr. R. Mc Hugh and Rev. S. Mc Caughey.  His many  contributions to education, career guidance and extra curricular activities were recalled and humourous anecdotes pertaining to the old school bus, were mentioned. Mr. Kirke joined the school in 1977 as a teacher of French and English. He was actively involved in bringing the L.C.A. course to the school, the development of the school library and fundraising for the new Sports Hall. Mr. Kirke spoke himself, about the many changes in education in St. Macartan's in his thirty two years there. He thanked everyone for their attendance and the Staff Social Committee for organising the event. Following presentations on behalf of  Staff, Parent's Association and the Board of Management a  very  palatable supper was enjoyed by the many well wishers. Mr. Kirke's pleasant disposition and professionalism as a teacher will be greatly missed in St. Macartan's College.