Councillors and staff pay tributes to Eddie Staunton

Last week’s meeting of the Ballina Municipal District was adjourned for 15 minutes as a mark of respect to the late Fine Gael councillor Eddie Staunton.

Mr Staunton served as a councillor for over 30 years, from 1981 to 2014, and was cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council in 2004-‘05.

Cllr Jarlath Munnelly led the tributes to a “huge character”.

“Eddie was a larger-than-life figure and we won’t see his likes again. He had an unbelievable appetite for politics.

“I want to extend my sympathy to his wife Margaret, their children and his wide circle of neighbours and friends,” he said.

Head of the municipal district Declan Turnbull extended sympathy to Eddie’s family.

Carmel Murphy from the municipal district office said she had known Eddie since she joined Mayo County Council in 1989.

“He was a real gentleman and it was all about the community for Eddie. But he also cared a lot about the staff and even after he retired, he was always coming in to chat and catch up, there was a great bond between him and the staff.”

It was agreed to adjourn the meeting for 15 minutes as a mark of respect to Eddie Staunton.