Dermot Gallagher: An Appreciation

Dermot Gallagher will be remembered as a "gentle, caring teacher who didn't ascribe to any political ideology other than trade unionism and socialism", according to his friend and comrade, Daisy Mules.

Paying tribute to Mr Gallagher, whose death was announced on Saturday morning, Ms Mules added: "Dermot was an activist within INTO (Irish National Teachers' Organisation) and helped progress the union's strong solidarity with Palestine, and Gaza in particular.

"As a consequence he helped ICTU (Irish Congress of Trade Unions) develop its current progresive policies on Palestine, though he was frustrated by the lack of action against the Israeli state.

"He is a huge loss to us all, but especially to his family," said Ms Mules.

Mr Gallagher died peacefully on January 2, 2026, at the Foyle Hospice.

He was the "beloved husband of Carol, loving father of Éimhear, Fionn, Éabha and the late baby Órla, devoted grandfather of Cadán, dear son of Mary and the late Paddy, cherished brother of Seamus and Moira. He was loved and will be sadly missed by Riley, his wider family circle, friends and neighbours."

Mr Gallagher's wake is taking place at his home, 5, Moat Street, on Sunday from 12:00 noon until 8:00pm. His funeral will leave from there on Monday, January 5, at 11:00am to St Aengus' Church, Burt, for Requiem Mass at 12:00 noon. This can be viewed on: https://www.churchservices.tv/burt. Interment afterwards will take place in St Patrick's Cemetery, Iskaheen.

His family has requested family flowers only, with donations in lieu if wished to Foyle Hospice, 61, Culmore Road, Derry, BT48 8JE.

Mr Gallagher was teacher at St Brigid's College in Derry. In an online tribute the school said: "The St Brigid's community is deeply saddened by the passing of our esteemed friend and colleague, Mr Dermott Gallagher.

"For over 30 years, Dermot has been a constant source of guidance and support for staff and pupils, always ready with thoughtful advice and a steady presence.

"As Head of Business Studies and as a form tutor, Dermot shaped generations of students by always demonstrating the school values of Care, Courtesy, Respect and Responsibility. Dermot always cared deeply for our pupils and the wider community.

"Dermott always represented the teaching profession with integrity and earned the respect of colleagues across the city, becoming well known in many schools for his work with trade unions.

"His impact on our community is lasting, and he will be greatly missed. St Brigid, pray for Dermot's family and friends. May he rest in peace."

St Brigid’s College vigil shows solidarity for Palestinian children in Gaza

Call for ICTU to coordinate workplace-based and community actions in solidarity with Palestine and all Palestinians in the Occupied Territories

The INTO expressed its "profound condolences" Mr Gallagher's family.

It added: "A member of our Northern Committee, Dermot was a highly respected colleague and friend who served the members of INTO with great distinction for many years.