Dean’s Dinner marks first event in RCPI’s Faculty of Public Health Medicine 50th anniversary year
The Faculty of Public Health Medicine at the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) marks its 50th anniversary in 2026, celebrating five decades of contribution to population health and wellbeing.
Founded in 1976, the faculty has played a central role in shaping public health policy, education and practice in Ireland and internationally. The milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and set out future priorities.
The first event in the anniversary programme took place on 24 March, when past Deans and the current Faculty Dean gathered for a special commemorative dinner at No. 6 Kildare Street. The occasion brought together key figures from across the faculty and the wider college community to reflect on its work over the past 50 years.
At the dinner, RCPI President Dr Diarmuid O’Shea and Dean of the Faculty of Public Health Medicine, Dr Kevin Kelleher, presented each of the past deans in attendance with a new faculty medal, The Dean’s Medal. Those who were unable to attend will receive their medal at a later date.
Dr Kevin Kelleher said the anniversary marks both a celebration of progress and an opportunity to look ahead.
“Over the past 50 years, the faculty has played a vital role in improving population health, shaping policy and responding to emerging health challenges,” he said. “As we look to the future, our focus remains on improving equity in health outcomes, strengthening public health systems and supporting the next generation of public health leaders.”
Dr Diarmuid O’Shea highlighted the enduring importance of public health in an increasingly complex healthcare landscape, noting that its role has never been more important. Echoing the Irish proverb “Is fearr an sláinte ná na táinte” (health is better than wealth), he paid tribute to the faculty’s leadership in responding to evolving health challenges.
He commended the faculty’s agility and innovation over the past five decades with its work contributing to public health policy and national debate on issues including alcohol, obesity, ageing, tobacco use and physical activity. He also acknowledged its significant role during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly through members contributions to national and international advisory groups including the National Immunisation Advisory Committee.
Dr O’Shea described the faculty as “a central and essential part” of the College and commended its ongoing commitment to education, leadership and collaboration, as well as its contribution to improving population health.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the faculty will publish a commemorative book, Fifty Years of Public Health Medicine in Ireland 1976–2026, documenting its history and impact since its establishment.
Further events are planned throughout the year, including the faculty’s Summer Scientific Meeting on 19 and 20 May which will bring together members, fellows and partners to reflect on the faculty’s legacy and explore its future role in protecting and improving public health in Ireland and beyond, and a joint meeting with the Faculty of Occupational Medicine in September, which also marks its 50th anniversary in 2026.
Image gallery
View a selection of images from the Dean’s Dinner.