Cllr Healy has a ‘big act to follow’

Cork County Council has welcomed its newest member, replacing the late Fine Gael Cllr Michael Creed in the Macroom Municipal District.

At Monday’s full council meeting, new councillor Gerry Healy was formally co-opted to the chamber in what the Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, described as a “bitter-sweet occasion”.

The Mayor said: “Cllr Michael Creed was a big act to follow in our chamber and we miss him dearly. But we would also like to welcome Jerry Healy here this morning.

“It's going to be great to be working with you over the following number of years.”

In his first address to members, a humble Cllr Healy expressed his appreciation and respect for the council, his new role, and his late colleague.

He said: “I'm just in awe really coming in here. It's my first time ever to be in this chamber.

“I'm replacing Michael Creed, but as most people here know, Michael Creed is not replaceable.”

Cllr Healy, who has been married to his wife Anne-Marie for 20 years and has two teenage daughters, lives in Millstreet and works for a semi-state company, having previously been a part-time farmer.

His co-option marks a significant milestone for his hometown, as he becomes the first councillor from Millstreet town in 12 years.

Senior party members from across the chamber welcomed Cllr Healy to his new role, starting with Fine Gael councillor Michael Hegarty who acknowledged the daunting task ahead.

“Michael Creed is a hard act to follow, but I have no doubt with your involvement in your local community, the various activities that you're involved in, you'll enhance it and prove to be an excellent representative,” said Cllr Hegarty. Fianna Fáil Cllr Gearóid Murphy also extended congratulations, noting that Cllr Healy follows a proud local lineage.

Cllr Murphy said: “He has big shoes to fill, as he alluded to himself, of course, our late colleague Cllr Michael Creed, but also locally in Millstreet, the legacy of Cllr Noel Buckley who represented the Millstreet area very ably until 12 years ago.”

Independent Cllr Alan Coleman highlighted the historical context for Healy's home region, describing it is “a big honour for himself, for his family, and indeed for his town, which has been underrepresented for the last dozen years”.

Further cross-party support came from Social Democrats Cllr Ann Bambury, who extended her best wishes.

“I wish you well in your new role as representative for the Macroom Municipal District, and I'm sure we'll all get on splendidly,” said Cllr Bambury.

Labour Party Cllr Cathal Rasmussen offered a final piece of practical advice: “I always laugh when people say you have big boots to fill.

“I suppose you have, but what I would say is learn to walk, walk in your own shoes, and make up your own mind.”