Arthur's  journalistic career spanned more than 50 years and he was a towering figure in Irish journalism. As the 'man on the spot' at Ireland's Shannon airport during the long period when all transatlantic flights refuelled there, Arthur Quinlan interviewed United States presidents, other world leaders. film stars and celebrities and both Che Guevara and Fidel Castro.

 

 He was involved in the development of the NUJ in Ireland's mid-west region and served for many years as union branch chairman. 

 

NUJ Irish secretary Seamus Dooley said Arthur Quinlan had been a lynchpin of the branch. "Arthur was a model journalist - meticulous in his research, dogged in pursuit of a news angle and fiercely loyal to his union. Young freelances found in Arthur a kind colleague who, despite being competitive, was generous with his time.  

 

"He will be remembered for his passionate commitment to the mid-west region. He had a great sense of fun and was a wonderful story teller. He was proud of the NUJ and was delighted to become an NUJ Member of Honour." 

 

Journalist who interviewed Che and taught Fidel to make Irish coffee (by Roy Greenslade)

---