Death of Mayo man who helped make electoral law fairer for non-party candidates

The death has occurred of Thomas A. (Tom ) King, Carrowholl, Rosmoney, Westport.

He died peacefully at the University College Hospital Galway, following a short illness, surrounded by his family.

The deceased was a independent candidate in the historic 2002 general election in Mayo - the first time the county became a single constituency - and succeeded in making a very strong legislative point.

Mr. King was involved with two other independent candidates at the time in taking a High Court challenge to Section 46 of the Electoral (Amendment) Act 2002 making it mandatory for non-party candidates to have 30 'assentors' to their nominations because of their conviction that it was "discriminatory, unconstitutional and a barrier to entry to the electoral process."

While refusing their application on the grounds of 'balance of convenience', Mr. Justice Kearns said the challenge had "considerable merits" and lawyers for the State also agreed they had an arguable case.

Four years later, in November 2006, the Supreme Court overturned the rule after a further challenge by Mr. King and others.

The court ruled that the regulation was disproportionate to the objective of authenticating nomination papers.

The late Mr. King had a great love a local history and had considerable knowledge of the history of the Quay area of the town.

Paying tribute to him, Mayo TD Michael Ring said the deceased had a great belief in democracy and stood in a number of general and local elections before succeeding in his constitutional challenge in favour of independent candidates.

"Tom was very much involved in the local community over any years and I extend my deepest sympathy to his family on their loss," added Deputy Ring.

Predeceased by his mother Dr. Lelia Finnegan King, father Jim, brother Jimmy, sister Mary, uncle Tony and cousin James, he is deeply mourned by his beloved wife Siobhan and sons Jim, Tom and Tony.

Tom will also be sadly missed by his daughters-in-law Jenny and Aisling, Tom's partner Claire, grandchildren, sisters-in-law Kay and Síle, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.

Reposing at McGing's Funeral Home, Westport, on Tuesday from 5 p.m. with removal at 6.30 p.m. to St. Mary's Church, Westport.

Requiem Mass on Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. with the funeral afterwards proceeding to Aughavale Cemetery.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.