Laois County Council lauds Tom Mulhall’s “massive contribution” to Laois

It was clear from this month’s meeting of Laois County Council (LCC) (held today 25th of January) that both the LCC staff and the councillors were still trying to come to terms with the shock news from late last week that Councillor Tom Mulhall had to retire from the council on health grounds. The full extent of his loss was made all too apparent by the praise heaped on the newly-retired County Councillor.

Cathaoirleach of the LCC Councillor Catherine Fitzgerald began the tributes opining that it was a “sad day” and that Tom Mulhall’s enforced retirement signalled a “huge loss to his area.” The Cathaoirleach was at pains to point out Tom’s massive contribution and his total dedication to his role on the council.

Councillor John King compared Tom’s retirement to losing a member of his own family. His fellow councillor Conor Bergin pointed out that Tom gave “everything he had to the council.” Councillor John Joe Fennelly underlined how well Tom had represented LCC locally, nationally and internationally when he was Cathaoirleach.

Long-serving Councillor Willie Aird said how he was such a diligent worker. Referring to his days playing Gaelic Football in the red and white of Emo Cllr. Aird called him a great team player when a councillor. Cllr. Padraig Fleming wished him all the best for future and called him a “tremendous hard worker.” Cllr. Mary Sweeney opined that it was very sad that Tom had to make this decision. Cllr. Seamus McDonald wished both Tom and his family the best of luck for the future.

Cllr. Paschal McEvoy pointed out his work ethic and how he was a “brilliant councillor.” Cllr. Ben Brennan noted his “110% passion for his job.” Cllr. Thomasina Connell referred to Tom as one of the “hardest-working councillors.” The praise kept coming from every single councillor. So much so that no-one attending virtually would be in any doubt as to how irreplaceable Tom Mulhall will be on Laois County Council.