'A people's man': Funeral arrangements for former Limerick politician Gerry Collins

FUNERAL arrangements have been announced for the late Gerard (Gerry) Collins - one of the titans of politics in Limerick for the best part of half-a-century.

The former Fianna Fail Minister, TD and MEP passed away peacefully in the excellent care of the palliative care team at University Hospital Kerry on Sunday, with his family by his side.

Predeceased by his parents James (Jimmy) and Margaret, brothers Maurice (Mossie), Michael and Seán, nephew John.

Mr Collins is very sadly missed by his loving wife Hilary, sister Mary Carroll, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Reposing at Harnett’s Funeral Home, The Square, Abbeyfeale (V94 AK44) on Wednesday, November 4 from 5pm until 9pm.

Requiem Mass will be celebrated in The Church of The Assumption Abbeyfeale, on Thursday at 11am, followed by burial in Reilig Íde Naofa, Abbeyfeale.

Requiem Mass will be live streamed on the following link- https://churchmedia.tv/church-of-the-assumption-abbeyfeale

The Collins family have kindly asked for donations, if desired, to go to the Palliative Care Unit, University Hospital Kerry - please click here

They ask for “house private” at all times please.

Countless tributes have been paid including from Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.

The latest to honour the memory of one of the most significant political figures to emerge from County Limerick is Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, Príomh Chomhairleoir Tom Ruddle, Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly and Deputy Willie O’Dea.

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said: "On behalf of the people of Limerick, I wish to express my sincere condolences to Hilary and the entire Collins family on the passing of Gerry Collins. I knew Gerry for much of my life through his friendship with my dad. He was always such a lovely, friendly man whose personal warmth remained undiminished by his many achievements in public life.

“He was a towering figure in Irish public life whose commitment to public service, to his native county and to the wider national interest leaves an enduring legacy. His contribution to Limerick, to Ireland and to the EU over many decades will be remembered with great respect and gratitude."

Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Councillor Tom Ruddle, said: "Gerry Collins was one of the most influential politicians ever to emerge from County Limerick.

“Throughout his career he remained deeply connected to his roots and retained a strong commitment to representing the people he served. His passing marks the end of an era in Irish political life. On behalf of the elected members of Limerick City and County Council, I extend our sympathies to his family, friends and former colleagues."

Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, added: "Gerry Collins served his country with distinction in some of the most senior offices of State and played an important role in shaping modern Ireland. His dedication to public service and his contribution to the political, social and economic development of Limerick and the wider region will be long remembered. We extend our deepest condolences to all who mourn his passing."

Limerick City and County Council extends its sympathies to Gerry Collins’ family, friends, former colleagues and all those who knew and worked with him throughout his distinguished public career.

Deputy Willie O’Dea said he was very sorry to hear about the death of the former TD, Minister and MEP, Gerard Collins.

“It was a testimony to his popularity that Gerard, who was first elected to Dáil Eireann in 1967, was re-elected at every subsequent general election, until his retirement from Dáil Eireann in 1997.

“He was very highly regarded and had a great relationship with the ordinary people of West Limerick from all walks of life and all social classes. This continued even when he served as a Member of the European Parliament for Munster between 1994 and 2004, as he maintained a strong link with the local area and kept in touch with the people of West Limerick, “ said Mr O’Dea.

The Fianna Fail TD said had a real affinity with the people he represented and was very much a people's man.

“He combined that with a national profile, where he proved to be a minister of great substance and served with distinction as Minister for Foreign Affairs, Justice and Posts and Telegraphs.

"He was also a repository of great advice and was generous with his time to give advice. "Gerard Collins has left a huge footprint and he will be remembered as a very successful local and national politician who enjoyed the admiration and love of the people he represented.

"I offer my sincerest sympathy to Gerard’s wife, Hilary and to his family, including his nephew, Minister Niall Collins,” said Mr O’Dea.