CEO of Catholic Education given knighthood in New Year's Honours List

Brother Patrick Joseph Lynch was named among the list of Knights Companion for services to education today.

Br Patrick was appointed CEO of the New Zealand Catholic Education Office in February 1994. Prior to that he was Principal of de la Salle College in Auckland and had held leadership positions with Principals' organisations both in Auckland and nationally.

During his time as CEO the number of Catholic integrated schools has grown to 236 schools with 64,000 students. Br Patrick has been instrumental in developing strong and constructive relationships with government, and with other parts of the education sector.

As well as being CEO of NZCEO limited he is also CEO of the Association of Proprietors of Integrated Schools.

On hearing news of his knighthood Archbishop John Dew said "I'm delighted that Brother Patrick's long and valuable contribution to Catholic education has been recognised and honoured in this way."

"On behalf of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops, I would like to add our congratulations and gratitude for his service, commitment and contribution to Catholic education over several decades in the various roles he has undertaken." Archbishop John Dew said.

Archbishop John Dew is President of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference.