Clare council meeting adjourned as mark of respect for late former councillor
Monday's meeting of Clare County Council was adjourned out of respect for the late PJ Kelly, former west Clare councillor
The October meeting of Clare County Council was adjourned on Monday, as a mark of respect for the late former councillor PJ Kelly.
Mr Kelly, who passed away in September, was Clare's longest serving councillor when he retired after 50 years of service before the 2024 local elections in June.
His Fianna Fail colleague Pat Hayes proposed a full adjournment of the October council meeting on Monday, October 14, in honor of Mr Kelly, saying it was "only appropriate" given his passing so soon after his retirement.
"He had his own views on lots of things, but his contribution to local government must be acknowledged here today, and that's why we're looking for a full adjournment, as a mark of respect to himself and his family," Cllr Hayes said.
The Lissycasey councillor, first elected in 1974, was remembered in the council chamber for his extensive knowledge, particularly in planning, and his dedication of over 50 years to local government.
Many councillors shared personal anecdotes and praised his expertise, respectful nature, and commitment to his constituents.
Ennis councillor Mary Howard, whose late father Michael had also served as a councillor alongside Mr Kelly. remarked on how strange it was "looking across and seeing his chair empty after looking at him there for 10 years."
"He was a lovely old soul," she said.
"He kept to us and everybody at the top table on their toes, that's for sure, but I got a great kick out of him, and his heart was in it.
"They loved the loved him deeply in Lissyasey, he was their man, and he served them well. He was a wonderful public servant for over 50 years, and he won't be forgotten that easily."
All councillors present in the chamber and online expressed deep sympathy to his family and highlighted Mr Kelly's lasting impact on the people of Clare.
Chief Executive of Clare County Council Pat Dowling also passed the "deepest sympathies" on behalf of all the council staff "present and indeed past down through all of the years that he engaged with over many decades" to Mr Kelly's family.
The council meeting was adjourned until this Tuesday afternoon.
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