Robert Starrs, a Housing ‘legend’ retires

Robert Starrs has been working with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive for almost 43 years but has now decide that the time is right for him to give up work and he confessed that it will provide him with a golden opportunity to travel home and abroad in his beloved camper van and make the very best of his retirement.

A farewell function was held last Thursday at the Ballycastle office where Robert spent most of his working life and a testiment to the esteem with which Robert was held, several senior figures in the Northern Ireland Housing Executive attended including Regional Manager Frank O’Connor and the Area manager, Brendan Doherty.

Robert’s immediate manager, Breige Mullaghan, was also present and many colleagues came from a number of other offices to bid farewell to a dear friend and workmate.

Mr O’Connor said Robert had mainly been based in Ballycastle but he had also worked in a number of other locations.

“Robert is a legend within the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and I know that whenever senior officers and Directors met in Belfast and Ballycastle was mentioned that the name Robert Starrs always came up,” Mr O’Connor added.

Tribute was also paid by Mr Doherty who said Robert had always displayed decency and loyalty as well as showing care and concern for people and staff.

“We all wish him well in his retirement,” Mr Doherty said.

Robert, who was accompanied by his wife, Jane at the function, said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time with the Executive and had worked with some “great people.”

An enthusiastic traveller, Robert added: “I expect I will now spend most of my time going places in my camper van. I’ve got plenty of time on my hands to enjoy it and I intend to make the best of it.”

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