Matthew Donohoe

Matthew Donohoe TCRG, ADCRG, SG
21st February 1971 - 24th September 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend, esteemed colleague, and Chairperson, Matthew Donohoe TCRG, ADCRG, SG.

Matthew grew up in County Kildare, where his lifelong passion for Irish dancing began at the age of four. Encouraged and supported by his two loving parents, Matthew and Maudie, Matthew danced alongside his siblings and enjoyed a successful dancing career as a champion solo and team dancer. He travelled extensively across Ireland for feiseanna and proudly represented Irish culture abroad at international folk dancing festivals.

Matthew attended St Joseph's Academy in Kildare before continuing his education at the Dublin Institute of Technology in Rathmines. In May 1998, he embarked on a distinguished career with Aer Lingus as an air steward, serving passengers and colleagues with warmth, professionalism, and care for over 28 years up to the present day.

Family was at the centre of Matthew’s life. On 31st December, 2011, Matthew married Ms Alison Norney ADCRG, SG and together, they shared a wonderfully happy life filled with cherished memories with their family and friends. Matthew was a loving stepfather and an immensely proud grandfather.

After obtaining his TCRG qualification, Matthew taught alongside his sister, Mary, at the Donohoe School of Irish Dancing. Together, their passion, guidance, and expertise nurtured generations of dancers, producing many Leinster, All Ireland, and World Champions. Matthew attained his ADCRG in 2004 and later went on to become a Grading Examiner, evaluating dancers with fairness, encouragement, and keen precision.

Matthew dedicated decades of service to our organisation, fulfilling officer positions across every level of the organisational structure. He held numerous branch officer posts and served as an Executive member for over 20 years. Always serving with the highest integrity, loyalty, and utmost dedication, Matthew held the roles of Public Relations Officer, Vice Chairperson, and Chairperson, leading the organisation from 2005 to 2008, again in 2014 to 2017 and again from 2024 until the present day.

Even in recent months, Matthew’s commitment to An Chomhdháil was unwavering. This past June, he adjudicated at the inaugural Great Britain Championships; in July, he led the Officer Board in successfully reintroducing the All Ireland & International Irish Dancing Championships; and in August, he chaired the Company AGM with his characteristic clarity and vision.

Matthew’s leadership, sharp precision and quick wit will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Alison and their family, the Donohoe family, pupils, and wide circle of friends and colleagues.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.