Teacher Burke's behaviour was 'disrespectful & unprofessional'

Former principal gives evidence of 'embarrassing' incident at service

- AODHAN O FAOLAIN

A FORMER school principal has described Enoch Burke's "public outbursts" at a religious service and a follow-up dinner as "wholly disrespectful" and "unprofessional".

Niamh McShane was principal and warden of Wilson's Hospital in Co-Westmeath between 2016 and 2022.

She told the High Court yesterday that in May 2022 she sent an email to staff at the school, which she described as "a request" to refer to a student at the school, who wished to transition, by a different name.

In reply to questions from the school's counsel Mark Connaughton SC, she said despite Burke's opposition to the request, she had attempted to reach an accommodation with him to see if a compromise could be found over the issue.

Burke had voiced his opposition to a request in emails and at a staff meeting.

Ms McShane said: "We tried to find a situation where the teacher and the student could be supported, and we tried to be absolutely fair with Mr Burke.

She said ultimately none could be found. Ms McShane said that on June 21, 2022, Burke had made an outburst during a service to mark the 260th anniversary of the school's foundation.