‘Father’ of Laois Co Council celebrates 40 years

A VETERAN Fianna Fáil politician has earned the title ‘Father of the Council’, as he celebrates 40 years on the Laois local authority.

Cllr Seamus McDonald from Rosenallis was first elected to Laois County Council in June 1985 and is the longest-serving elected member.

The title was previously held by current Fine Gael TD Willie Aird, who was first elected to Portlaoise Town Council in 1979 but departed his council seat following his successful general election bid last November.

Now aged in his mid-70s, cllr McDonald has successfully fought nine local elections during his four-decade political career.

First elected in the old Tinnahinch area, his toughest electoral contest came last year when he had to wait until the tenth count to regain his seat, after a Titanic battle with Fine Gael’s Paddy Buggy.

Transfers eventually brought the long-serving Slieve Blooms councillor over the line in the Borris-in-Ossory/Mountmellick local electoral area, while Buggy went on to replace Aird as a councillor in the Portlaoise area.

At the June meeting of Borris-in-Ossory/Mountmellick Municipal District this week, many tributes and congratulations were paid to cllr McDonald on his 40th anniversary in local politics and his efficiency as district cathaoirleach (chairperson) for the past year.

Many councillors highlighted his quiet, gentlemanly but effective approach, with his successor as chairperson Cllr Conor Bergin commenting: “You are an experienced chair and I know that you are the longest serving councillor. If you don't mind me saying so, you’re the Father of the Council!” 

Cllr Ollie Clooney (Ind) remarked: “What a fine man you are and there wasn’t a cross word out of you.” 

Fianna Fáil colleague Cllr Paddy Bracken said that 40 years on the council was a great achievement and that Cllr McDonald had chaired meetings “very effectively and calmly”, while Cllr John King (FG) complimented the Rosenallis man’s “calm demeanour” and positive approach.

Cllr James Kelly (Ind) said that Cllr McDonald was very effective and a good friend outside the council chamber, as he quipped: “I’m sure you’re looking forward to being elected next time, too!” 

On behalf of council staff, director of services Angela McEvoy described cllr McDonald as “very cool, calm and collected” as she thanked him for his work over the past year.

A man of few words, cllr McDonald thanked everyone for their good wishes and for their co-operation during his time in the top role.

He particularly thanked director of services Ms McEvoy, her predecessor Donal Brennan and council staff, who ensured that many works were carried out throughout the district within the past 12 months.