Statement On The Passing Of Sean Treacy, Former Mayor Of Clonmel – Martin Lonergan

It was with sadness that I learned this morning of the passing of Seán Treacy, former Mayor and member of Clonmel Corporation, member of Dail Eireann, former Cathaoirleach and County Councillor for South Tipperary, former Ceann Comhairle of Dail Eireann and former MEP for Munster.

Seán was first elected to Dáil Éireann at the 1961 general election, as a Labour Party TD for the Tipperary South constituency. He was re-elected in seven subsequent elections, and returned automatically in three more owing to his having been elected by the Dáil as Ceann Comhairle. He was elected to that office firstly after the 1973 general election for one term, then after the 1987 general election for three. He left the Labour Party in 1987, and was elected as an independent TD at the general election that year.

Seán was a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from 1981 to 1984, replacing Eileen Desmond who resigned as an MEP when she was appointed Minister for Health and Social Welfare. He was a member of the Irish Presidential Commission during the presidential vacancies of 1974 and 1976. He retired from politics at the 1997 general election.

Through his work on the ground in Clonmel and indeed South Tipperary, Seán assisted many people, community groups and organisations throughout his years and across many strands. Seán was a dedicated, honourable Public Representative who worked hard and put the needs of his constituents to the fore at all times. He made an incredible contribution to society here in Tipperary and in his home town of Clonmel.

We also remember Kitty, his beloved wife who, I am sure throughout his years involved in Public Service was his rock and his steadfast support. He now is reunited with her and in the words of Timothy, “you have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith.”

I extend my condolences to his family, relatives and many friends at this time.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis