Fond farewell to founder of The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland
Posted on 31 October 2014.The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland is celebrating the career of its founder, Paddy Barrett, as he retires following decades of devotion to donkey welfare in Ireland.
Paddy first worked as an animal welfare inspector before taking over his father’s donkey rescue centre which he merged with The Donkey Sanctuary in the UK to found The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland in 1987.
Since then it has rescued over 4,200 donkeys and grown to be the largest equine charity in Ireland.
Paddy, has always been “the face” of The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland, and an inspiration, said Noel Carton, The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland’s Head of Operations.
He said: “Paddy’s an amazing man with a true passion for donkeys. He has selflessly dedicated his life to the rescue and wellbeing of Ireland’s donkeys and he will be greatly missed by all.”
Paddy’s proudest moments include welcoming Princess Anne to open The Donkey Sanctuary Belfast in 2011 and the Irish president, Michael Higgins, to open a new walkway at The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland in Liscarroll, in 2013.
The Donkey Sanctuary will always be grateful to Paddy and his family for their decades of dedication to donkeys in Ireland. Paddy will continue to take part in key events, beginning with his retirement party next month.
