The SIPTU Education Sector lost one of its leading activists and former Sector Presidents with the unexpected death of Kieran ‘Jack’ McGinley on 25th November. Jack dedicated 45 years to Trinity College, where he worked as a librarian,earning respect and admiration from colleagues throughout the university community.
A committed advocate for workers’ rights, he was actively involved with SIPTU and worked passionately with the Irish Labour History Society and his own Umiskin Press to preserve the stories of Ireland’s labour movement. His contributions leave a lasting legacy of dedication and integrity.
SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, said: “Jack McGinley’s commitment to our Union saw him work tirelessly as an activist serving in many crucial roles, among them as a long serving member of the SIPTU National Executive Council. After his retirement from his job as a librarian in Trinity College Dublin, he maintained his position as Chairman of the SIPTU Dublin District Council and served on several committees which oversaw the good governance and rules of the Union.
“Perhaps his greatest contribution, in recent years, to the movement he loved was as the founder and main editor of Umiskin Press, the independent publishing house which has done much great work publishing titles focusing on the Irish labour movement and its leading personalities. While our Union relied on his diligence on many occasions it will be through his work with Umiskin Press that Jack will continue to have an impact for generations to come.”