Tributes paid to the late Michael Neary

WARM tributes were paid this afternoon (Wednesday) at a Castlebar Municipal District council meeting to the late Michael Neary, who died earlier this week.

A former member of the outdoor staff of Mayo County Council, Mr. Neary, from Sheeaune, Burren, Castlebar, was described as 'the face' of the county council.

A minute's silence was observed in his memory and the meeting was adjourned after half an hour as a mark of respect.

Councillor Blackie Gavin proposed the vote of sympathy to the Neary family at today's meeting. Michael Neary, he said, was well liked and respected by his council work colleagues and the people of Castlebar.

He was known as 'Councillor Neary', he noted, a name he got working on the roads for all the good work he did.

Councillor Al McDonnell said Michael Neary was an 'extraordinary' public servant and 'the face of Mayo County Council'.

Councillor Martin McLoughlin agreed he had been an extraordinary worker – 'a real ambassador for the county'.

Mr. Neary's funeral takes place this evening (Wednesday), reposing at Coady's Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m., with removal to St. Michael's Church, Crimlin. Requiem Mass will be celebrated tomorrow (Thursday) at 12 noon, after which he will be laid to rest in Castlebar Old Cemetery.

Predeceased by his brother Patrick, he is deeply regretted by his brothers Tom and Gerry, sister Mary Duffy (Parke, Castlebar), nephews, nieces, aunt Katie McManamon (Castlebar), extended family, neighbours and friends.