Councillors pay tribute to deceased politicians

Mayo county councillors have paid tribute to the late Paddy O’Toole and Bridie Greavy.

The monthly meeting of the local authority, which was held in Bonniconlon on Monday, May 12th, was adjourned as a mark of respect to a number of people who have lost their lives in the county in recent weeks.

Tributes were paid to former Fine Gael Minister Paddy O’Toole. The Geesala native had also been a Senator and served on Mayo County Council and Ballina Urban council.

“He served his community extremely efficiently and effectively and was a man who served this country in a difficult time," said Fine Gael Cllr Jarlath Munnelly. "The courage and the decision-making by the likes of Paddy O’Toole when there was no money and the viability of the State was under threat should not be underestimated."

Cllr Munnelly said his family counted Mr O’Toole as a close friend and the former Minister’s exploits encouraged him to enter politics.

“The first politician I knew was Paddy O’Toole who one evening would be in our sitting room and the very next would be on Today Tonight. When I went forward for election in 2004, it was Paddy O’Toole who proposed me at convention. I can say without contradiction that without Paddy O’Toole I would not be in politics.” 

Cllr Gerry Coyle said Mr O’Toole had come from a modest background and rose to the highest level of politics.

“He was always a proper gentleman and a humble man.” 

There were also tributes to former councillor and community activist Bridie Greavy.

Cllr Annie May Reape said the late Mrs Greavy was “the driving force” of her beloved Bonniconlon.

Cllr Marie Therese Duffy said Mrs Greavy was a “pillar of the community” in the village.

Cllr John O’Hara paid tribute to a “great lady” who made a huge contribution to her community.