The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Tributes as Moynihan retires from politics
August 1995
FORMER South Kerry Labour TD and long time member of Killarney Town Council Michael Moynihan was nominated this week for a ‘People of the Year Award’ by his former colleagues on the Town Council.
In the week that he officially announced his retirement’from political life after over 40 years, it was unanimously agreed at the Council’s monthly meeting on Monday night to put his name forward for the annual awards which give public recognition for outstanding contributions by individuals to society.
Fianna Fail Clr Dermot O’Callaghan proposed the nomination of Mr Moynihan and said it would be a nice gesture on behalf of the Council if his name were put forward. His proposal was seconded by Fine Gael Cllr Paul Coghlan.
Tributes to Mr Moynihan were paid by members of the Council following his announcement that he is to retire from politics.
In a letter to Killarney Town Clerk, Carmel Brosnan, dated August 10, Mt Moynihan announced that he is to retire from his position on the Town Council after 40 years in political life.
In his letter, he said it was a great honour to serve the people of Killarney and South Kerry and he thanked all urban and county council officials for their help and courtesy down through the years.
Cllr O’Callaghan said Mr Moynihan would be sadly missed on the Council.
“He is a great statesman and he acquitted himself excellently at all times. He achieved great heights during his time in politics,” he said.
Cllr Coghlan said Mr Moynihan served the Council and his constituency loyally and well for over 40 years.
“He showed great courae through his political life. His election to the Dáil was richly deserved after trying on a number of occasions. He was instrumental in getting Liebherr and Pretty Polly to set up factories in Killarney and he always promoted industry and tourism in the area,” he said.
Cllr Michael Gleeson complimented Mr Moynihan on his long years of service both locally and nationally.
“We had our differences and that is part of life. But he did not bear any grudge. He deserves our respects,” he said.
Cllr Sean O’Grady said Mr Moynihan served the public with integrity and dedication during his time in politics.
“He was a giant amongst men and an absolute gentleman,” he said.