Former Mountjoy Governor to address Waterford event

Former Governor of Mountjoy, John Lonergan, is to address an event taking place in Waterford this month.

He will be in attendance at the Waterford Age Well Expo which will take place on Wednesday, November 19.

Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Seamus Ryan will officially open the event, which will also incorporate the Waterford Older People’s Council (OPC) AGM, in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford.

The free event, which is being organised by the OPC in association with Age Friendly Waterford and supported by Waterford City and County Council, the HSE and UPMC Whitfield, will showcase the services, supports and activities available to older people to lead fulfilling, healthy and active lives.

A spokesperson for Waterford City & County Council said that on the day there will be over 40 exhibition stands, talks from keynote speakers and interviews with local organisations and community groups who will provide insightful and topical information to everyone who aims to keep active, social and age well.

Mr Lonergan will be the keynote speaker and in addition to being the former Governor of Ireland's most well-known prison, he is also an Age Friendly Ambassador.

The Bansha-native began his distinguished career in the Irish Prison Service in 1968. Over 42 years, he witnessed and navigated the complexities of the prison system, ultimately serving as the Governor of Mountjoy Prison for over 22 years, and the top-security prison at Portlaoise for nearly four years.

Mr Lonergan’s tenure as a prison governor was marked by a deep commitment to understanding and improving the lives of those within the prison system. This approach was rooted in the belief that meaningful change comes through dialogue, empathy, and respect for human dignity. He often spoke out about the need for rehabilitation and education as key components in reducing recidivism and supporting inmates’ reintegration into society.

When he retired in 2010, he published his autobiography, 'The Governor', which offered an honest and compelling account of his experiences and the challenges faced within the Irish penal system. 

His second book, 'Parenting: Raising Your Child in Ireland Today', which provides practical advice for parents and supports the children's charity, Barnardos, was published in 2013.

Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council and Chair of Age Friendly Alliance, said: "Waterford City and County Council is once again delighted to support the Age Well Expo. We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from previous events, reflecting the significant benefits this initiative delivers to our community."

“The event not only provides older people with essential information and insights to enhance their quality of life, but it also offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with a broad network of key support agencies and service providers," he said.

"These meaningful interactions have a profoundly positive impact, empowering older individuals to make informed choices about ageing well and living life to the fullest in Waterford.” The Age Well Expo will take place in Park Hotel, Dungarvan (X35 CC97) from 10am - 4pm on Wednesday, November 19.