‘Air of sadness’ in County Hall

The funeral of Cork County Councillor, Patrick Gerard Murphy will take place today in West Cork.

The county was left in shock last week when the news broke of Cllr Murphy’s sudden death in his home in Ballylickey, Bantry.

Cllr Murphy, who was co-opted to Cork County Council in 2008 and served as county mayor in 2018/2019, is survived by his brothers Mike and Noel, nephews Jake and Cory, aunts and uncle, and his many cousins and extended family. A requiem mass for Cllr Murphy will take place in St Kentigern's Church in Eyeries, West Cork, at 12pm today, Thursday, followed by burial in Gortnabulliga Cemetery.

Mr Murphy’s family has asked that any donations be made to the RNLI and intellectual disability support service, Co-Action.

As a mark of respect to the late councillor, a special meeting of Cork County Council will take place at Eyeries National School today at 9.30am.

Since news of his death, tributes have poured in for the Fianna Fáil representative. Fianna Fáil Cllr Gobnait Moynihan said the sad news has “knocked the stuffing” out of fellow councillors.

She said: “It's hard to believe as, sure, I was only talking to him last week at the council meeting. Patrick Gerard was so well got by his colleagues. I was in the County Hall (this week) and you could just feel the air of sadness around the building.”

Social Democrats Cllr Isobel Towse said: “He was always helpful and respectful to me as a new councillor.”

I think he was like that with everyone, regardless of what party you were with, he was just a very kind and genuine person.”

Fianna Fáil Cllr Audrey Buckley said: “We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our colleague, Cllr Patrick Gerard. His loss has come as a great shock, and our thoughts and sympathies are with his family at this difficult time. Patrick will be greatly missed within the Fianna Fáil party and by all here in Cork County Council.”

Also expressing his condolences was an Taoiseach Micheál Martin.

“I am very sorry to learn of the death of my friend, fellow party member, and councillor, Patrick Gerard Murphy,” said Mr Martin.

“Patrick Gerard was a natural public representative,” he added.

In his tribute to his friend, the Taoiseach recalled how Patrick Gerard cared deeply and passionately about his place and the people he represented.

“He advocated for them. Patrick Gerard was passionate about community development and worked tirelessly on behalf of the communities he represented.

“Patrick 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.

“Patrick Gerard was warm, positive, and inspirational,” added the Taoiseach.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, said: “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,” she added.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, said: “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.”

Cllr Murphy used a wheelchair since he was involved in a car crash in 1993 while still a student. He listed “determination, persistence, and a ‘can do’ attitude” as the core principals behind his time as a public representative.

His funeral service will be live streamed via rip.ie from 12pm today, Thursday.