Minister pays tribute to loyal Mayo Fine Gael personality

MINISTER of State Michael Ring has tonight paid a glowing tribute to one of his most loyal supporters, Tony Moore, Drumminawoonagh, Clogher, Westport, whose death has taken place.

The late Mr. Moore, a lifelong supporter of Fine Gael, was a former member of the staff of The Mayo News.

He is survived by his wife Nuala, sons Michael and Henry, daughters Joanne and Nuala, brother, sisters, relatives and friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.

Minister Ring said he was deeply saddened to learn of Tony's death, describing him as 'his right hand man' in political life.

Stated the Mayo TD: “Tony was with me when I first decided to run for public office in the Westport Urban Council election of 1979 and he was with me every step of the way after that.

'I could always depend on Tony and he was an outstanding worker during election campaigns. He kept us all on our toes and no vote was ever left to chance.

'He was a legendary figure within the party and he loved every aspect of politics, most notably election counts when his great knowledge of voting trends came to the fore.

“I will miss him greatly. He was Fine Gael true and true and I was fortunate to have his support and loyalty for so many years. I tender my sympathy to Nuala and family. Tony's death also represents a great loss to Westport.”

Joining in the tributes to Tony, Councillor Tereasa McGuire said he was 'a true blue' whose loyalty and dedication to the party were exemplary.

She said: 'I learned so much about politics from him and I was honoured to have him with me on the canvass trail on many occasions. He was also a proud Westport man and the town is a lesser place without him. God rest his soul.' 

The deceased will be reposing at his residence on Wednesday evening from 4 o’clock with removal at 7 o’clock to St. Mary’s Church, Westport.

Requiem Mass takes place on Thursday at 12.30 p.m. with burial afterwards in Aughavale Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.