Former mayor was ‘a gentleman and man of his word’

The late former Clare mayor, Sean Hillery, was yesterday described as “a man of great stature”.

The present incumbent, Cllr Pat Hayes, yesterday led tributes to the late nephew of former president Paddy Hillery, who died last month after a short illness.

The late Fianna Fáil councillor served as a member of Clare County Council from 1985 to 2004, and was mayor between 1999 and 2001.

“Sean was a pro-active mayor and played a huge role in the significant development of Shannon,” Mr Hayes told the council’s April meeting.

Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) described Mr Hillery as “a gentleman and a man of his word”.

His cousin, Cllr Michael Hillery (FF), told the meeting that “Sean’s passing was a very deep personal loss to me. Myself and Sean were very close down through the years and since 1985, when both of us were elected onto this council. He made a major contribution during his time on the council to the lives of Clare people and the economic wellbeing of the county.”

Cllr Patricia McCarthy (Ind) said that Mr Hillery had far-reaching ideas, adding: “I can’t speak highly enough of Sean.”

The council was due to vote on a contentious rezoning but the matter was adjourned as a mark of respect until today.