Niall Collins proud to have had the pleasure of spending so much time in Gerry's company
Former minister Gerry Collins will be laid to rest in his native Abbeyfeale on Thursday
THE IRISH Tricolour will be gently draped over the coffin of Gerry Collins - former minister of justice who worked to protect the State during a time of real threats - when he will be laid to rest in his native Abbeyfeale on Thursday.
To borrow a phrase from Charlie Haughey - Mr Collins’ Fianna Fail party leader for many years - the proud Limerick man certainly did the State some service. The 88-year-old passed away on Sunday after being unwell in recent times.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin, or a representative, is expected to attend the funeral, such was Mr Collins’ standing in the Fianna Fail party.
Long queues of mourners paid their respects at Mr Collins’s reposal at Harnett’s Funeral Home, The Square, Abbeyfeale this Wednesday night. Requiem Mass will be celebrated in The Church of The Assumption, Abbeyfeale, on Thursday, at 11am, followed by burial in Reilig Íde Naofa, Abbeyfeale.
His nephew, Minister of State, and Limerick TD, Niall Collins, said he was “proud to have had the pleasure of spending so much time in his company over the years”.
“Gerry was a fantastic person who had a positive influence on the lives of so many people, families and communities across Limerick and beyond,” he said.
“Whilst he had a very long and successful career in Government and politics both nationally and internationally, he remained grounded throughout and always kept the people and communities at home at the forefront. We will miss him greatly,” he added.
Gerry Collins was first elected to Dáil Eireann in 1967, winning a seat in the Limerick West by-election following the death of his father, James. He was re-elected at every subsequent general election, until his retirement from Dáil Eireann in 1997.
Mr Collins served with great distinction and ability as Minister for Foreign Affairs (twice), Justice (twice) and Posts and Telegraphs. He also served as a Member of the European Parliament for Munster between 1994 and 2004.
The Taoiseach said: “He was a highly effective minister and was one of a generation of Irish public representatives who served with great selflessness and who left an enormous footprint.”
By his side through it all was his beloved wife, Hilary.
"Slan go foill to a great man, a kind, warm, witty, erudite gentleman,” penned one mourner on RIP.ie. “What I will miss most, apart from his sage counsel and generous advice, is his genuine warmth and humanity. To Hilary - heartfelt condolences. You were his constant companion and provided unwavering support.
“What a double act! Ad Astra!!”