‘True blue’ John is honoured by Fine Gael

CORBALLY man John Leonard has been honoured for his decades of service to Fine Gael in the city.

Mr Leonard originally became involved in the party in 1961 when his friend, the late Tom O’Donnell sought election to the Dail.

It was a decade before he officially became a member though.

Since then, however, he has raised tens of thousands of euro for Fine Gael locally through its annual superdraw, and been a willing volunteer at many events and canvasses.

As a measure of appreciation for his service over the years, his local branch, Gus O'Driscoll’s in Corbally joined with the Limerick City constituency to honour him.

John was presented with a painting of Athlunkard Street, which is marking its 200th anniversary this month, by artist and fellow party stalwart Jim O’Farrell.

The presentation was made at the City branch’s AGM in the South Court Hotel at Raheen.

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Senator Maria Byrne said: “John is a true blue and a true Fine Gael man. He has been involved in volunteering in the party and organisation for many many years so I’m delighted he has been recognised.”

She added John could always be relied upon, and “always gives everything his all”.

John’s family background is in Fine Gael, his uncle being an associate of Michael Collins in the 1920s.

“I wasn't expecting anything. It was sprung upon me. I just happened to go to a meeting, and found out,” John told the Limerick Leader of the honour.