Taoiseach leads tributes to Cork county councillor Patrick Gerard Murphy after sudden death
Fianna Fáil councillor Patrick Gerard Murphy had served on the local authority since 2008, after being co-opted to fill a seat in the Bantry Electoral Area vacated by Donal Buckley. Picture: Adrian Cronin
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has led tributes to a Cork county councillor who died unexpectedly at his West Cork home on Saturday morning,
Fianna Fáil councillor Patrick Gerard Murphy had served on the local authority since 2008, after being co-opted to fill a seat in the Bantry Electoral Area vacated by Donal Buckley.
He was elected in his own right in 2009 and at every local election since.
Mr Murphy had to use a wheelchair following a car accident when he was younger.
Mr Martin said he was deeply sorry to hear of Mr Murphy’s death, describing him as an outstanding councillor.
“I am very sorry to learn of the death of my friend, fellow party member and councillor, Patrick Gerard Murphy. He was born and grew up on the Beara Peninsula. He (prior to his accident) played football for Urhan and Beara and throughout his life was committed to the GAA and its ideals,” Mr Martin said.
The Taoiseach went on to describe him as “a natural public representative” who was a long-standing member of West Cork Development Partnership and a founding member of Cork Local Link and Employability West Cork.
In his tribute, Mr Martin recalled how Patrick Gerard cared deeply and passionately about his place and the people he represented.
He said: “He advocated for them. Patrick Gerard was passionate about community development and worked tirelessly on behalf of the communities he represented. He overcame adversity in his early life with great courage and determination. He continued to advocate for people with disabilities, working with the National Learning Network in Bantry to ensure that those with disabilities were supported and represented,” Mr Martin said.
"His was an important and respected voice within the party along with his community and county. On my own behalf, and on behalf of the Fianna Fáil organisation, I offer my deepest sympathy to Patrick Gerard’s brothers Michael and Noel and his wider family, along with his community in West Cork.”
Skibbereen-based Fianna Fáil councillor Joe Carroll, who was one of Patrick Gerard’s best friends on the council, said he was totally shocked to learn of his death.
“We travelled together throughout the county and abroad representing the council. I just find it so hard to take it in. He was very level-headed and very intelligent. You won’t replace a man like him,” Mr Carroll said.
Speaking on his passing, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley, said, “This is a day of great sadness for Cork County Council and for West Cork. Patrick was not only a colleague, but also a friend to many across this chamber.
"His passion for his community, his dedication to public service, and the kindness with which he performed his duties distinguished him in every role he held. His loss will leave a void in our council, and in the hearts of all who knew him. On behalf of the people of County Cork, I offer my deepest sympathies to his family, his friends, and all those who worked alongside him.”
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, added, “Patrick Gerard Murphy’s contributions to Cork County Council were diverse and lasting. His leadership in housing strategy, planning, arts, heritage, and local development has left lasting benefits for many communities.
"To his family, colleagues, and constituents, I express my heartfelt condolences. His legacy will continue in the work he did and supported, and he will be sorely missed by all in the Executive and the wider Council organisation.”
