Civic reception is mooted for 'a real stalwart'
Frank Harrington and his wife Patricia at the recent 40th anniversary celebration of the official opening of Ireland West Airport. Picture: Michael McLaughlin
A proposal to honour renowned Mayo businessman Frank Harrington was raised during the annual general meeting of Mayo County Council on Friday last.
During tributes to the new Cathaoirleach Cllr John Caulfied, reference was made to the fact that Frank Harrington, the man who had believed in the vision of Monsignor James Horan when he was building Ireland West Airport, was present in the chamber for the occasion.
Cllr Blackie Gavin told Cllr Caulfield: “You mentioned in your speech your plans to promote the Strategic Development Zone in Ireland West Airport and we are all very proud of the vision Monsignor Horan had to make it a reality. But a man in the gallery, that I know for many years, this man has done more for this county than anyone else. He was shoulder to shoulder with the Monsignor on the project and I want to compliment him and his family for all the work he has done for this county, and if there is anyone in this county that deserves an award or recognition from this council, it is you, and your family. I am proposing Cathaoirleach that this council hold a civic reception for this man because that airport wouldn’t be there today without him.”
Cllr Patsy O’Brien added his compliments to Mr Harrington, who sat in the gallery somewhat nonplussed at the sudden attention being conferred on him.
"Special compliments to Frank Harrington, a real stalwart," said Cllr O'Brien. "The celebration of the airport on its 40th anniversary this year was well documented and rightly so, and it is great to see that infrastructure in our region today.”
Outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr Sean Carey also paid tribute to Mr Harrington, saying: “I also acknowledge Frank Harrington. I met him at the 40th anniversary of the airport and he is a great gentleman, and I thank him for all his work and commitment to the county, especially with the airport. I cannot imagine what it must have been like to commit back then to such a big contract. I remember at the time Jim Fahy from RTÉ covered the story and there were all these machines in the background with [Frank's] name on it. That was a very important milestone in the whole project and after that I think it was easier to attract the funding and Frank Harrington played a huge role in that.”
- Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
