THE FORMER head of the Irish National Teachers Organisation in Northern Ireland, Frank Bunting, has died aged 61.
Mr Bunting passed away over the weekend some 18 months after he was diagnosed with a tumour. He had retired last May from his post as Northern secretary of the INTO, which represents teachers in Catholic-maintained schools.
The west Belfast man worked as a teacher before spending 20 years with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions as an education and training officer, among other posts. He was well known for reaching out to build relationships with the Ulster Teachers Union.
He is survived by two sons and a daughter.
His cousin and fellow trade unionist Peter Bunting said he was “hugely non-sectarian”.
INTO general secretary Sheila Nunan described him as a powerful advocate for teachers.
NI Assembly Minister for Education John O’Dowd said Mr Bunting would be sorely missed.
His remains will lie in repose at Melville’s Funeral Home, Lisburn Road, Belfast, from 3pm to 5pm today and tomorrow, followed by cremation at Roselawn crematorium on Wednesday at 2pm.