Athlone native hails contribution of late Éamon de Buitléar

Athlone native and President of NUI Galway, Dr Jim Browne, has paid a warm tribute to the late Éamon de Buitléar. "Éamon de Buitléar was an outstanding figure of modern Ireland. An exceptional film-maker, a committed environmentalist, a public intellectual, author, musician and member of Seanad Éireann - he was a man of many parts and a man whose contribution to Irish society has enriched the lives of many generations," Dr Browne said. "Most of us can recall Éamon's passion for the Irish environment, brought to life through his books and television progammes. His enduring legacy will be a sense of respect for the landscape and heritage of Ireland, along with a joyful enthusiasm for the culture and traditions of our nation." Dr Browne said NUI Galway was deeply honored by its association with Éamon de Buitléar. "His decision to donate his rich multi-media, bi-lingual archive to the University will mean that his lifetime's work of creativity and advocacy will be held in trust here for the nation and for generations of scholars. We are proud to have been entrusted with that task." On behalf of NUI Galway and the university community, he extended condolences to the family and friends of Éamon de Buitléar.