Passing of former Chief Fire Officer Val Maguire

All at Cavan County Council and Cavan County Fire Service are saddened by the passing of Val Maguire. Val served as Chief Fire Officer for County Cavan with great distinction from April 1972 until October 1998, and helped usher in a new era of professionalism, incorporating modern technology and training methods into the service.

The thoughts of all at Cavan County Council are with his children Isabel, Garret, and Nessa, his grandchildren, Conal and Gleb, his wider family, and his many, many friends.

Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Cllr John Paul Feeley said, “Though he retired over a quarter of a century ago, Val is still fondly remembered within Cavan County Fire Service and indeed across the Council as a pioneer, a leader, and a thorough gentleman. His legacy is that of a modern, professional fire service and, by extension, a safer county. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis”.

Chief Fire Officer Sinéad Sweeney said, “The legacy of a leader is not only measured in the medals or the milestones, but in the people they shaped and the values they have instilled along the way. The respect and warmth with which Val Maguire’s name is still mentioned in fire stations across the county is testament to his character, vision, and integrity. His impact upon the service should not be understated. May he rest in peace.”