It is with healtfelt sorrow that Foras na Gaeilge announces the death of its Chairman, Joe McDonagh (Seosamh Mac Donncha), who passed away on 20 May. Joe’s achievements on the sporting field and in his professional career on behalf of education and the Irish language made him a hero among the GAA and Irish language communities. Speaking today, Ferdie Mac an Fhailigh, Chief Executive of Foras na Gaeilge said that “we have lost a legend and a friend” and that Joe’s passing will “leave a huge void among the Irish language and Gaelic games communities”

Joe was Chief Executive of Foras na Gaeilge from February 2002 to March 2006. During his time as Chief Executive, he laid the foundation for the operation of Foras na Gaeilge as an all-Ireland crossborder body. He also served as a member of Foras na Gaeilge’s Board from 2011 to 2015. His appointment as Chairman of the Board was widely welcomed in December 2015.

The staff and Board of Foras na Gaeilge extend their deepest condolences to Joe’s wife, Peig, to his daughters Muireann and Éilis and to his son Eoin.

Full press release available here: Loss of a Legend - Joe Mac Donagh 1953-2016