Death of former Laois county councillor

TRIBUTES are being paid to a former Laois county councillor, who passed away today after a short illness.

David Goodwin from Tineel, Rosenallis was a businessman and long-serving Fine Gael councillor, who represented the north Laois area for more than four decades.

First co-opted to Laois County Council in 1973 on the death of his father, Cllr William Goodwin, he represented what was then the Tinnahinch area and subsequently the Borris-in-Ossory/Mountmellick municipal district, before losing his seat in the 2019 local elections.

The proprietor of E.V. Condell Ltd in Portlaoise, he was well known across the midlands as a successful Massey Fergusson dealer with exceptional knowledge and expertise.

Describing his former colleague as a most diligent and hardworking councillor for his constituents in North Laois, former Fine Gael Minister and TD Charlie Flanagan said: ‘I was very sorry to learn of the passing of David Goodwin, which represents the end of an era in the politics of North Laois in particular.

‘As a TD for the area, David was particularly good to me over the years. He supported me in every Dáil election I ran. He gave of his time canvassing on my behalf, that is something I will remember forever.’ 

Both Mr Flanagan and current Fine Gael TD Willie Aird extended their deepest sympathies to David’s bereaved wife Olive and family.

David passed away at Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise on Saturday, 12 September. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Hs death notice on RIP.ie says: ‘Deeply regretted by his dear wife Olive, his daughter Hazel, sons William and Robert, extended family, neighbours, relatives and his many friends. 

‘Sympathisers can express their sympathy on the online section on RIP.ie.’