Tributes paid after death of Cork councillor Gerard Murphy
Cllr Gerard Murphy was one of the longest-serving public representatives in Co Cork. Picture; Eddie O'Hare
Tributes have been paid to Cork County Councillor Gerard Murphy who has died.
Mr Murphy was one of the longest-serving public representatives in Cork County Council.
He was first elected to the council in 1992 and served as Cathaoirleach from 1995 to 1996.
He was then elected to the Dáil from 2002 to 2007, where he served as vice-chairman of the justice and equality committee before returning to local politics and representing the Kanturk-Mallow Municipal District as well as the Southern Regional Assembly.
On Tuesday afternoon, Mayor of County Cork, Councillor Frank O'Flynn and Cork County Council CEO Valerie O'Sullivan paid tribute.
"It is with great sadness that we make this statement on the passing of Councillor Gerard Murphy," the statement said.
"Cllr Murphy was one of the longest serving public representatives in Cork County Council and a lifelong community activist, most notably in his hometown of Newmarket."
Both called him a "proud member of Fine Gael" who brought a wealth of experience, knowledge, particularly in the area of planning and development, and commitment to his role as a representative."
"Cllr Murphy was a founder member of the IRD Duhallow, supported the establishment of Cultúrlann Newmarket, transforming the former Church into a heritage and cultural centre, and was instrumental in the development, through the securing of grant funding, of the popular walking amenity Island Wood in Newmarket," the statement added.
"Housing projects, too numerous to mention, had been a key focus for Cllr Murphy, together with supporting various community and sporting groups in the Kanturk and Newmarket electoral areas such as the Newmarket community playground."
Cork North-West and Fine Gael TD, Michael Creed said Mr Murphy was "driven by the pursuit of progress for his constituents" and called him a personal friend.
"The architect of many successes for Fine Gael in Cork North West, he was a consummate political tactician.
"He was driven by the pursuit of progress for his constituents, both at a personal and a community level.
"He leaves a legacy of achievement that is widely recognised," Mr Creed said in a statement.
"As well as our close political affiliation, Gerard was a personal friend over many years.
"I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to his wife Marian and their family."
Taoiseach Simon Harris, the leader of Fine Gael, paid tribute to Mr Murphy, hailing his "loyalty, hard work, and distinction" in serving Kanturk and Newmarket.
