Passing of Mayo Fine Gael supremo who masterminded four seats out of five in 2011

The death has occurred peacefully at his home of Michael Sloyan, Greenwood, Ballyhaunis.

Predeceased by his father Michael, mother Eileen and sister Noreen, he is sadly missed by his loving wife Theresa, son Karol, daughters Tracey and Tarina, sons-in-law Chris and Lorcan, brothers Padraig, Jerome and Gabriel, his sister Maura, relatives and friends, to whom deepest sympathy is tendered.

Funeral will arrive to Bekan Church on Thursday morning for Mass at 11.30 a.m. with burial afterwards in the local cemetery.

In his late 60s, Michael was a legendary figure in Mayo political circles, having masterminded, as director of elections, Fine Gael's success in winning four seats out of five in the 2011 general election with 65% of the vote - the seats being secured by Enda Kenny, Michael Ring, Michelle Mulherin and John O'Mahony.

It was a remarkable landslide result and one that will never to be emulated - the number of seats in the Mayo constituency having since been reduced to four.

Paying tribute to him today, Ballyhaunis Councillor John Cribbin said Michael had a tremendous knowledge of politics and was an outstanding operator in the manner in which he ran election campaigns for the party.

Said John: "He was the man who first twisted my arm to go into politics ahead of the local elections in 1999 and he was always a source of encouragement to me.

"His view were always highly valued within the organisation and he was very keen.

"I was very sad to learn of his death and my deepest sympathies are extended to the bereaved family."

An exceptional carpenter by trade, the deceased was very actively involved in the parish of Bekan and was a long-serving member of the church choir.

He loved the outdoor life and was a leading member of East Mayo Ramblers.

Mayo politics has lost a great servant.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.