Castlebar councillors pay warm tribute to John Condon

Castlebar councillors paid tribute to an “extraordinary” public servant following his retirement.

John Condon was head of Castlebar Municipal District and previously acted as Town Clerk for Castlebar.

The Co Tipperary native previously worked in Dublin City Council, Kildare County Council and Athy Town Council. He first came to Mayo in 1984.

Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, Cllr Al McDonnell, said Mr Condon provided exemplary and dedicated service to the county for 41 years.

“He can only be described as the most extraordinary man. An encyclopedia on anything associated with local Government, particularly the PR (proportional representation) system. 

"From time to time we would come up against situations which would be considered delicate. He would have the most simple solution,” said Cllr McDonnell.

“He was full of knowledge and had a great grá for technical details and problem solving. He was always there if there was a crisis and he always came up with a right good solution,” said Cllr Cyril Burke.

“He retired the way he operated, nice and quietly, and calmly,” he added.

Cllr Michael Kilcoyne said Mr Condon’s expertise was invaluable and he played a key role in the development of Castlebar.

“He was one of the people who was really involved in transforming the town,” said Cllr Kilcoyne.

“Not only would give you an answer to a question you asked but he would give you the reason behind that answer,” he stated.

“In another time he would be the county manager,” Cllr Kilcoyne added.

“John made a huge contribution to Castlebar. He made Castlebar what it is today,” said Cllr Blackie Gavin.

Cllr Donna Sheridan said Mr Condon was a “font of knowledge.” 

“A man of great ability. You trusted him implicitly,” commented Cllr Harry Barrett.

“You could be sure his advice was solid,” said Cllr Ger Deere, who praised the impact Mr Condon had. “He exemplified what public service was about," he stated.