IMRO is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hugh Duffy, the organisation’s first Chief Executive Officer and a pivotal figure in its earliest days.
Hugh Duffy played an instrumental role in the foundation and development of IMRO at a time when the protection and promotion of music creators’ rights in Ireland was still in its infancy. Through his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment, he helped lay the groundwork for what would become a vital organisation supporting songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
Hugh guided the organisation through its formative years with determination and clarity of purpose. His efforts ensured that Irish creators had a strong, unified voice and a robust framework to safeguard their rights both at home and internationally. His legacy is reflected in the strength and success of IMRO today.
Those who worked alongside Hugh remember him for his belief in the value of music and its creators.
Paying tribute, Eleanor McEvoy, Chairperson of IMRO, said:
“Hugh Duffy was a visionary whose work helped shape the future of music rights in Ireland. His unwavering commitment to songwriters and composers created a legacy that continues to support and inspire creators today. We are deeply grateful for his contribution and proud to build on the foundations he established.”
Paying tribute, Victor Finn, CEO of IMRO, said:
“From the outset, Hugh understood the importance of protecting the livelihoods of music creators. His work ensured that Irish songwriters and composers had a voice, and that impact continues to resonate across the industry today.”
Brendan Graham added:
“It was my honour – as initial Chairman of IMRO – to work with Hugh since his appointment in the PRS, pre-IMRO period, right through to the successful establishment of IMRO as a national body for Irish songwriters, composers, and publishers. Hugh was a frontiersman man or should I say a ‘no frontiers’ man. He was extraordinary in his vision of ‘what could be’, and his application towards achieving that vision was one of boundless energy. Hugh was tenacious, unafraid…possessed of great business and political acuity – in a word, inspirational and a pleasure for the Board to have as its ‘go to’ CEO. In the intervening years Hugh remained a close and valued friend and confidante to many of us who served with him. We will miss him, on that personal level.”
Our deepest sympathies go to Hugh’s daughters, Helen and Nicola, sister Breda, his grandchildren, in-laws and extended family.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.