Tributes to former Mayo minister on his passing

An Tánaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has paid tribute to former senator, TD and minister Paddy O’Toole, Ballina, on his passing.

Mr. O'Toole he was nominated to the 13th Seanad in 1973 for Fine Gael by the then Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave.

He was then elected to the 21st Dail and served as a TD from 1977 to 1981 for the Mayo East constituency.

He was re-elected in 1981 to the Dail, where he then took up the role of Minister for the Gaeltacht from 1981 to 1982 and then served as Minister for Defence in 1982.

He continued his role as Defence Minister during the 23rd Dail in 1982 and retained his seat once again.

Mr O’Toole served as Minister for Fisheries and Forestry from 1982 to 1986. At the same time he held office as Minister for Gaeltacht and briefly as Defence Minister once again from 1986 to 1987.

He failed to retain his seat in the following General Election and was appointed to the 17th Seanad in 1987 by the Taoiseach.

Stated Deputy Harris: “I was saddened to hear of the passing of the former Fine Gael Minister Paddy O’Toole on Sunday evening in his native Mayo.

“A former teacher in Knockanillo National School outside Ballina, Paddy was a community man grounded in the place he served. He was first nominated to the Seanad in 1973 and went on to be elected to the Dail on four occasions spanning the decade between 1977 and 1987.

“Paddy served as Minister for the Gaeltacht, Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestries and indeed as a predecessor of my own, as Minister for Defence.

“My sympathies to his wife Jacqueline, his children Jacqueline, John, Padraig and Helen, his friends, and to the people of Mayo whom he loved and served. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

In a tribute, Mary Minister Dara Calleary stated: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paddy O'Toole and my thoughts and prayers are with Mrs O'Toole, Jacqui, John, Padraic, Helen their families and the wider O'Toole family.

"Paddy O'Toole was an exemplary public representative who served at the highest level of government during very difficult times. He brought insight, wisdom and understanding to every role he held.

"He and my late father Séan may have been political opponents but they remained at all times firm friends.

"Paddy was a gentleman in every facet of his life. May his gentle soul now rest in peace."

Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD said: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Paddy O'Toole, a distinguished public representative and a proud native of Mayo.

"Paddy's career was marked by his dedication to public service and his significant contributions to our community and country. Paddy played a leading role in his career as a minister, being appointed to several key positions.

"His service to Fine Gael and in office at the Departments of the Gaeltacht, Defence, Fisheries and Forestry showcased his versatility and commitment to Ireland.

"He represented his constituency as a TD from 1977 to 1981 and again from 1981 to 1987, and also served in the Seanad. Paddy will be fondly remembered by all those who had the privilege of knowing him and benefiting from his tireless work.

"My sympathies to his wife Jacqueline, his children Jacqueline, John, Padraig and Helen, and all his friends.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Mayo senator Mark Duffy said: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of Paddy O’Toole — a dedicated teacher, senator, TD, and Minister who served his community and his county with great distinction. Formerly a schoolteacher in Knockanillo National School, Paddy’s commitment to education and local development laid the foundations for his future in public office.

"An able political operator and a thorough gentleman, Paddy O’Toole was a humble, dedicated public representative who gave tremendous service to his county and to his country at a time of deep political instability.

"He leaves behind a proud legacy and his passing will be sadly mourned from his native Doohoma to Ballina and far beyond.

"My sympathies to his wife Jacqueline, his children Jacqueline, John, Padraig and Helen, to his relatives, neighbours, colleagues and friends."