Midlands MEP pays tribute to Fr Shay Casey on milestone occasion

Midlands North West MEP Ciaran Mullooly has paid tribute to TUS Athlone chaplain, Fr Shay Casey, on the 50th anniversary of his ordination into the priesthood.

The milestone was celebrated in St Patrick's Church, Killashee, County Longford, on Sunday, the chaplain joined by family members and friends for the special occasion.

The Independent Ireland MEP, who has been a friend to Fr Shay Casey for over 30 years, said the chaplain had "performed an extraordinary public service" during his 50 years in the priesthood.

"As chaplain to the students at Technological University of the Shannon, Athlone and Athlone RTC, Marist Athlone and Our Lady’s Bower Secondary School, Fr Shay has provided support and assistance to thousands of students at key moments in their lives, offering spiritual support and helping build a third level institution into an international centre of excellence," the MEP said.

MEP Mullooly stated that Fr Casey was always readily available to meet the needs of students, staff and their families "often when tragedy struck" and "sheltered students from home and abroad who had literally no place to go".

"It’s been a pleasure to know him as a friend over all those years. I wholeheartedly congratulate Fr Shay on his big day and a lifetime of great work.

"Some people watch on while others roll up the sleeves in this life. Fr Shay will always be in the latter category, a doer not just a talker, a mentor, a shoulder to cry on, a person to listen to. Long may he continue to be such an important part of life in the Midlands," the MEP concluded.