Plaque unveiled in honour of former Cavan town engineer

One of Cavan town's longest serving town engineers was honoured recently when the outgoing Cavan Mayor unveiled a plaque in his honour at a ceremony at the Town Hall last week. Pat Gaffney served at Cavan town engineer for almost half a century from 1943 to 1988 and his nephew Cllr. Andrew Boylan, who was performing his last act as Mayor of the town, unveiled the plaque in the rose garden beside the Town Hall. Five of Mr. Gaffney's seven children were present at the ceremony - Brian, Patrick, Breda, Kevin and Doreen, while Helen and Madeleine were away at the time and could not attend. Cllr. Boylan said it was only fitting that the council should honour Pat Gaffney as he provided loyal service to the town for many years. "I was delighted to have the opportunity to unveil the plaque in my last act as Mayor before handing over the chain of office." Mr. Gaffney was born in Crimlin, just outside Cavan town on the Crosskeys Road in March, 1904, and educated at Derrabawn National School and St. Patrick's College, Cavan. He qualified as an engineer from UDC in 1933 and in 1936 was appointed Clerk of Works in Ballinasloe and later held a similar position at Cootehill Housing Scheme. Pat spent periods as town surveyor in Belturbet and Cootehill before coming to Cavan town. Pat had the responsibility for everything with the exception of the upkeep and maintenance of the roads. Mr. Gaffney undertook all the engineering functions of the Urban Council such as housing and sewerage. He was also employed with Cavan Co. Council with regard to house inspection for grant applicants. According to Cllr. Boylan his uncle was very approachable in endeavouring to solve a planning problem. Mr. Gaffney formed a partnership with the late Philip Cullivan, trading as "Gaffney and Cullivan, Architects". He had a great love of sport especially Gaelic football and greyhounds. Pat bred many greyhound and had quite a bit of success with them training the winner of the Oaks in 1962 with "Purty Good", and the Caesarwich in 1960 with "Pocket Glass". Pat used his initials to name many of his dogs. Mr. Gaffney was also involved with the old Clones greyhound track for many years and he attended the annual All-Ireland coursing in Clonmel on many occasions. Pat was also behind the famous Providers Hardware store (now Tesco's) on Main Street along with Mick Galligan and J.J. Smith.