TNAG-1008-FCO40-1258-Reports-on-leading-personalities-in-Hong-Kong-1982 — Page 47

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CONFIDENTIAL

Rev. McGOVERN, Patrick Terence, SJ

Unofficial Member of Executive Council, since 1980.

Unofficial Member of Legislative Council, since 1976.

Born 1920 in Dublin.

Educated at the National University of Ireland and qualified with a degree in philosophy and theology and special studies on social work and industrial relations. A Catholic priest and member of the Society of Jesus.

Has been a Director of the Caritas Social Centre of Kennedy Town (1965 69). Founder and Chairman of the Industrial

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Relations Institute (1968 - 75).

Permanent Adviser to the Industrial Relations Institute and member of the Citizens Advisory Committee on Community Relations to Independent Commission Against Corruption.

Father McGovern has spent much of his working time amongst the low income groups and young labourers. His excellent command of Cantonese helps him to communicate at ease even at grassroots level. He is knowledgeable about the ways of life, cast of mind and day-to-day problems of the less privileged segments of society. His main interest is campaign

for workers' welfare and education as well as labour reforms in which fields he can be regarded as a real pioneer. cheerful and optimistic personality who can be very persistent and vocal at times. He is generally well-liked and respected by all circles, rich and poor, the Church and the layman.

His interests are outdoor activities, swimming and driving around in his well-known motor-cycle.

CONFIDENTIAL