Madam, – St Michael’s House deeply appreciates the long-standing support of its president, Declan Costello, who sadly died last weekend.
Mr Costello was one of the founders of St Michael’s House and was in attendance at its first meeting in 1955. He took over the mantle of president of the organisation from his mother, who died shortly after the organisation was established, and remained in that role until the time of his death.
Mr Costello was a visionary leader with a great sense of justice and social reform. He firmly believed that children with an intellectual disability were educable; a view not widely held in 1950s and 1960s Ireland. He was centrally involved in the establishment of the first “day centres” which were the pre-cursor to special schools.
Mr Costello successfully lobbied several government departments and local authorities to secure the vital funds needed to establish the wide range of services provided by St Michael’s House. He was instrumental in establishing the National Disability Association to bring similar organisations across the country together to share experiences and challenges.
He was a very active advocate for St Michael’s House and his drive helped the organisation grow to become one of Ireland’s largest providers of community-based day and residential services to over 1,600 children and adults with an intellectual disability and their families.
I would like to close this tribute to Declan Costello by quoting the man himself: “Of all the things that I did in my life, being associated with St Michael’s [House] was the one I regard as the most important of all.” We at St Michael’s House believe his association with the organisation was also one of the most important for us. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – With the sad passing of Declan Costello, Ireland has lost a fine upstanding patriot, a committed legal and social reformer and, a shining example of an honest politician. This country owes Declan Costello a huge debt of gratitude for his part in the reformation of Irish society in the latter half of the 20th century.
Full praise is also due to Liam Cosgrave for giving him the opportunity to shine in the position of attorney general. Mr Cosgrave’s kind tribute (June 7th) says much good about both men - a lesson, perhaps, for the modern generation of politicians! May he rest in peace. – Yours, etc,