A tribute to Dr T.K. Whitaker from Professor Alan Ahearne, Director of the Whitaker Institute

It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of Dr T.K. Whitaker, eponym of the Whitaker Institute at NUI Galway.

Dr Whitaker devoted his professional life to formulating and influencing public policy to promote the economic and social advancement of all the Irish people.

His plan for economic development transformed the Irish business sector and set the course for an open, competitive Ireland to succeed in the global economy.   As a senior public servant, he led from the front in the modernisation of Ireland’s public sector.

The enduring relevance of his life’s work is testimony to his extraordinary intelligence and foresight.

We all at the Whitaker Institute remember a brilliant economist and dedicated public servant, recall his immense contribution to public life in Ireland, and extend our deepest sympathies to his family.