Councillors pay tribute to Mayo businessman on his passing

WARM tributes have been paid to the late businessman Pat O'Malley, whose family operate the Blue Thunder restaurant chain.

A gentleman, who was known right around the county, Pat, from Balla, will be laid to rest tomorrow (Wednesday).

He was remembered at yesterday's (Monday) meeting of Mayo County Council as being a renowned businessman. He had very much contributed to employment and economic activity in the county, said Councillor Richard Finn.

In setting up Blue Thunder, he had created jobs in the county in what were difficult times, said Councillor Christy Hyland, who described Mr. O'Malley as 'a gentleman'.

Blue Thunder restaurants in Mayo are temporarily closed as a mark of respect following his passing.

Mr. O'Malley's great support for the local community over the years was also recalled by Councillor Ger Deere.

Pat was beloved husband of Marian and much loved father of Joane Byrne (Balla), Karen Ginnelly (Glenisland) and Pascal (Balla), and is also deeply mourned by sons-in-law Tom and Eamon, daughter-in-law Angelika, grandchildren Dean, Emma, Molly, Katie and Emily, sisters Maureen (Westport), Margaret (Louisburgh) and Noreen (Westport), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews and nieces, relatives, great neighbours and friends, to whom sympathy is extended on their loss.

He will repose at the Balla Funeral Home (walk through only, no handshaking please by request) this evening, Tuesday, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Cronan's Church, Balla, on Wednesday at 11.30 a.m.

May he rest in peace.