Laois County Council Cathaoirleach bids a fond farewell to departing Councillor Padraig Fleming

“So fellow elected members, distinguished guests, Deputy Sean Fleming, we have a former Councillor Michael Rice here I believe in the background as well, Chief Executive Management Team, ladies and gentlemen. We gather here today to mark a significant moment in the history of this chamber as we bid a formal farewell to a colleague and a friend who has been a cornerstone of Laois County Council for almost 17 years; Councillor Padraig Fleming.

Since his first election in 2009 to the Luggacurren area and subsequently in 2014 to the Graiguecullen/ Portarlington Municipal District area, Padraig has served in his community with a level of dedication and integrity that is truly exemplary. Padraig’s name is synonymous with public service in County Laois, having followed in the footsteps of a proud family tradition. From road safety improvements in his area, supporting local clubs, to ensuring that the concerns of rural families were heard at the highest level.

Padraig was a man who understood that while the big policies are made in this chamber, the real work happens on the doorsteps and on the ground. With great pride and dignity, Padraig wore the chain in 2017 and in 2024 and represented our county at home and abroad with calm steady hands and a legendary sense of courtesy. He presided over our meetings with fairness and impartiality, a true gentleman in the chamber and beyond.

A mentor to many new members entering the chamber and always willing to share his experience and knowledge of local democracy. His absence will be felt not just in his own party but across this chamber. On a personal level, Padraig, as you step back from the front lines of public life, you do so with gratitude of your colleagues and the people of Laois.

I would personally like to wish you a long and happy and well-deserved retirement with Catherine and the girls and your extended family. Padraig, I want to sincerely thank you for your 17 years of unwavering service to Laois County Council and the people of Laois You’ve been a true gentleman in every sense, always inoffensive, approachable and ready for practical advice for anyone who sought it.

You’re the first person to come to me in the chamber when I was co-opted in here to give advice and I really appreciate that. As a representative for your district, your commitment to the people of the Swan and the wider community has been exemplary. You leave behind a legacy of hard work, genuine kindness that will be greatly missed in our council chambers.

Wishing you and your family a very happy retirement and good health and on behalf of myself and elected members, thank you for an outstanding service to this council. Go raibh maith agaibh.“

Cllr. Barry Walsh Cathaoirleach Laois County County