Tribute to Tom Garvey (1936-2007)

Tom Garvey was one of the first representatives of the European Commission actively to work on indentifying needs and priorities and on delivering assistance for the economic restructuring of CEE following the political changes in 1989. With his exceptional personality, knowledge and skills, he laid the foundations for the future relations between the European Communities and the region; developed new support mechanisms; and shaped processes for the most efficient delivery and use of assistance.

Between 1995 and 2003, Tom Garvey served on the Board of Directors of the Regional Environmental Center, later becoming a member of its General Assembly. He was particularly passionate about NGO support and the training of young environmental leaders, and his enthusiasm attracted the first financial donations from the business community for these activities.

Following Tom Garvey’s death in 2007, the Tom Garvey Fund was established in his honour. The fund has made possible the renewal and extension of the REC’s long-running and successful Young Environmental Leaders Programme. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the REC in 2012, the programme was renamed the Tom Garvey Young Environmental Leaders Programme.

It is our hope that, following in his footsteps, the Tom Garvey Young Environmental Leaders Programme will provide opportunities for many young people to broaden their knowledge and skills, opening up new horizons for them to contribute to the sustainable development of CEE, a cause that was so dear to Tom Garvey's heart.