Mayo Fianna Fáil Deputy Dara Calleary has paid tribute to Martin J O’Toole, a former Fianna Fáil TD, Senator and Councillor from Louisburgh Co Mayo who passed away last night.
Deputy Calleary said, “I was deeply saddened to learn of Martin J’s death. He was a valued colleague, a close family friend for many years and a much loved and greatly respected member of the community in Co Mayo.
“Martin J. spent more than 4 decades in public life, beginning his political career in 1955 as a member of Mayo County Council, where he served as Chairman on many occasions. He was a member of Seanad Éireann from 1977 to 1989 and a member of the Dáil from 1989 to 1992. He was also President of Mayo Fianna Fáil and a valued member of the local organisation in Co Mayo over the years.
“It was a privilege to know Martin J. He was a wonderful character and a great source of political wisdom. He was well known not just in political circles but also in the farming community. Martin was a champion for rural Ireland and was instrumental in the development of the Western Rail Corridor.
“I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to Martin’s children Padraig, Austie, Martin, Séamus, Marie, Anna, Breda and Gráinne and their families and friends at this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
