SETU Carlow says goodbye to popular Bernie after 32 years of service

THE staff of South East Technological University (SETU) wished Bernie Bolger the very best in her retirement. Bernie, from Bennekerry, worked at SETU for over 32 years and spent the last decade of her career in the staff canteen serving tea, coffee and food.

Technical officer at the engineering department, Sam Alcock, organised a coffee morning to celebrate her retirement in December. 

“We miss her terribly,” said Sam. “She was here for years, and she looked after us and fed us like she was a mammy.” 

“There’s no atmosphere in the staff canteen now that she’s gone,” added lecturer Pauline Flanagan.

Bernie said she got to know every back and every corner of the old college campus. Meeting people was her favourite part, and she was surprised at how the lecturers were so down-to-earth and easy to talk to. “I enjoyed it. It was hard work at the beginning,” she said. “We had good times, and bad times.” 

There are only two or three of her colleagues that remain working there.

“I miss them terribly, but it’s time to go, to spend more time with my grandchildren.” 

Bernie plans to go on a few holidays and see places in retirement. She will be 50 years’ married in March, and the couple plan to celebrate with a trip to Paris.

“I’d like to thank the lecturers and office staff, my colleagues over the years and the manager Tina Costello for the great send-off yesterday, from the bottom of my heart,” said Bernie.