Minister pays tribute to Ballina's 'tourism visionary'
John Walkin turns the key as he closes the door of his premises in Market Square for the final time to mark his retirement in 2017. Watching on is his son John Bosco. Picture: David Farrell Photography
Minister of State Dara Calleary has paid tribute to legendary Ballina native John Walkin who has passed away.
Mr Walkin was a renowned businessman in the town and played a huge role in developing the town's fisheries industry over many decades. He was a former chairman of the North Western Fisheries Board and won the Mayo Person of the Year Award in 2014.
Minister Calleary said: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of John Walkin and wish to extend my deepest sympathies to his wife Colette, his daughter Cleona, his son John Bosco and to the wider Walkin family. He always said that he would never have achieved as much as he did without Colette's unstinting support.
"There were few more people as passionate about Ballina, the River Moy, Killala Bay and Mayo as a whole then John Walkin.
"He put that passion into action on so many fronts.
"He was a tourism visionary and in particular he was an experienced and wise, river and sea angler, who's expertise, experience and innovative sea angling festivals drew people from all over the world to North Mayo.
"He pioneered the concept of Ballina been the Salmon Capital of Ireland and was delighted to see it receive that recognition officially in 2010.
"His expertise and passion was evident for all to witness during his terms as a member and as chair of the North Western Fisheries Board- subsequently Inland Fisheries Ireland. Without John Walkin that organisation would not have an office in Ballina today.
"He was passionate and focused about the development and potential of Ballina and served as President of Ballina Chamber of Commerce as well as been involved in many organisations dedicated to the well being and promotion of the town.
"The flow of the River Moy through Ballina has eased this evening as if in tribute to one of its greatest champions.
"May his gentle soul rest in peace."
Predeceased by his parents Paddy and Kitty Walkin and his brother Tony, John is survived by his beloved wife Colette, children Cleona and John-Bosco, adored grandchildren Kate and Alex, son-in-law Matthew, sister Maura Gannon, brothers PJ, Gerry, Eamon, Séamus and Vincent, nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and his wide circle of friends.
Reposing at McGowan’s Funeral Home, Ballina (F26 V274) on Thursday evening, June 6th, from 5:30 to 7:30pm.
Funeral will arrive to St Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina, on Friday morning, June 7th, for John's Requiem Mass at 11am.
