http://www.rte.ie/ie/morningireland/entry/shannon_every_cent_goes_to

Tuesday, 02 Nov 2010

by Lisa Pereira

Here’s a piece of news that Geoffrey Shannon, chairperson of the new Adoption Authority, didn’t mention on air but told us after his interview.

His new role is a part-time one but comes with a fee. The same applies to his post as Special Rapporteur on Child Protection.

Geoffrey said he donates every cent of what he earns from the state to charity.

He mentioned the Peter McVerry Trust so we rang Fr. McVerry and he confirmed that Geoffrey Shannon is a regular contributor.

The McVerry Trust works to improve the lives of young, homeless people.

Fr. McVerry said: “Fifty percent of our five million euro budget has to be raised through fundraising. We appreciate very much Geoffrey’s support and the support of all the people who contribute to us either on a once-off or regular basis.”

Geoffrey Shannon’s day jobs, by the way, are as a soliticor, and as a lecturer in family law. He says he earns enough through his private practice to support himself so doesn’t need the extra money.