Gorey man named Cork Person of the Month for his contribution to education

A man from Gorey has been named Cork Person of the Month for August in recognition of almost 50 years of contribution to education and community life in Cork.

Pat Kinsella was honoured for his voluntary work with 11 different schools since retiring as a school principal in 2012.

During that time, Pat served as chairperson or sole manager in eight schools and was a member of the board of management of a further three. Each role involved up to six years of voluntary commitment, allowing him to share his experience and expertise with principals and school boards.

His work included advising on school governance, appointments, development projects, policies and Department of Education requirements.

Pat began his teaching career in Dublin before moving to Cork, where he taught at the North Mon and Ballincollig Community School. He later spent 25 years as principal of Coláiste/Gaelcholáiste Choilm, where he was praised for helping establish a vibrant new school to serve Ballincollig's growing population.

He also served for six years as vice chairman of the National Council for Special Education.

Pat has made a significant contribution to community life outside education, including serving as editor of the Ballincollig Parish newsletter and secretary of Ballincollig Community Centre. He has also been involved in organising fairs, local productions, youth activities and community initiatives.

He also comes from a prominent GAA family in Wexford. His brother Mick won five All-Ireland hurling medals from college to senior level and served as Wexford county secretary. Mick also established GAA Camps in Wexford, which later inspired the Cúl Camps programme.

Pat's brothers Seánie and Rory also represented Wexford, while Pat himself played hurling with Cuala in Dublin and Naomh Éanna Gorey, winning club honours at various levels.

Speaking after receiving the award, Pat said the highlight of his voluntary work had been experiencing school communities focused on creating the best possible conditions for children while supporting teachers, staff and management.

Cork Person of the Year Awards organiser Manus O'Callaghan praised Pat's contribution to education and the wider community, also acknowledging the contribution of his late wife Marjorie.

Pat's name will now go forward with the other monthly winners for consideration for Cork Person of the Year at the annual Gala Awards Lunch at the Metropole Hotel on January 29th, 2027.