'If he didn't bother canvassing he would still get elected,' tributes to popular councillor

It was an emotional Tipperary/Cahir/Cashel Municipal District meeting this morning as Councillor Michael Fitzgerald attended his final meeting after 45 years in the role.

"His sincerity got him in trouble but his sincerity made him what he is," John Fitzgerald his brother said at the meeting.

District Director Sharon Kennedy said "he had an incredible level of affection with the staff" and that he "represented the people of Tipperary in a most magnificent manner".

Michael Fitzgerald became a councillor at the age of 23 and at his final Council meeting four decades later his wife Mary, son Michael as well as other siblings Tom, Anne and James were all present in the chamber.

Caotherlaich Declan Burgess spoke highly of Fitzgerald saying that they had been: "party colleagues and friends across campaigns. He has had an extensive career," and he thanked him for all he has done on behalf of the MD and on a personal level.

Marie Murphy said he had given 'exceptional dedication' over 45 years and thanked him for his support since she was elected in 2009. She said he was elected with 3005 votes in 2019 which was just exceptional.

Councillor John Crosse said it was an emotional time for him and all there. "His respect for Local Government,'' was second to none.

"Local Government will never be the same," he said pointing out that if Michael Fitzgerald said something it carried respect locally and nationally".

He said Michael Fitzgerald should be "awarded the freedom of Tipperary," and stressed that "we will miss him."

Mary Hanna Hourigan praised him too saying to Michael Fitzgerald: "I was always inspired by you," and she said they had so many memories from over the years adding that it was an exciting time for Michael Fitzgerald and his wife as their first grandchild is due soon.

Roger Kennedy fondly recalled the bygone days of 1979 and all those who have gone to their eternal reward. "It is a great honour to have served for 45 years."

"You deserve a civic reception from Tipperary County Council," he said for all the work across the decades and the sacrifice Fitzgerald's family have made over the years. It is respected and it is acknowledged," he said.

Cllr Mairin McGrath joined in the tributes welcoming his family to the chamber and saying few would complete a lifetime of service like he had.

Michael Anglim and Andy Moloney also paid tribute.

"After 45 years it is usually an oration at a graveside we are making!" he quipped to laughter, stressing that Michael Fitzgerald should make the most of his retirement and make up for lost time.

"If he sat at home by the fire and didn't bother canvassing he would still get elected in the upcoming Local Elections," Cllr Andy Moloney said.

Annemarie Ryan said she had arguments with him at first but appreciated his advice and efforts. She concluded by saying: "I hope I meet you for a bit of craic because I heard your good fun in the pub!"

Cllr Tony Black said that while he was on the opposite side politically he appreciated Fitzgerald's time and advice and said the first time he met him was when Cllr Fitzgerald put a pint of guinness on the counter in front of him, and Cllr Black knew then that it was "a good sign of a fella."

In response Fitzgerald quipped: "If I knew you were Sinn Fein I'd never have bought you a pint!

"I felt like what Bruce Springsteen felt like last week on his farewell tour!" he said reflecting on the words of others. 

He said the cards, well wishes and thanks from people mattered deeply to him and "that they would think that much of me," adding that his time there " was an honour and a pleasure".