Emotional tributes paid to popular council official

‘A true gentleman, an excellent ambassador and a dedicated public official’.
These are some of the words used to describe Galway County Council Director of Services Liam Gavin, who died last week at the age of 57.
Councillors gathered at County Hall this afternoon for their monthly meeting, where emotional tributes have been heard.
Instead of the traditional minute silence, the 39-member group stood and applauded the late official as a fitting tribute to the ‘man of action’.
Liam Gavin, was one of the council’s best-known and most popular directors, was remembered by councillors today – with many saying the council will not be the same without him.
Tuam area Councillor Mary Hoade described Liam Gavin as an absolute gentleman, while Loughrea’s Councillor Michael Moegie Maher said he stood out as an exceptional person.
Connemara area Councillor Seamus Walsh said Liam was a fair man, who always wanted to do the right thing.
Tuam area Fianna Fail councillor Donagh Killilea said the local authority should consider naming a bridge or a road after Mr. Gavin to remember his work.
Liam Gavin has also been remembered for his dedication to the people of Galway – he spent much of the Christmas period last year on the ground helping families whose homes were flooded.
This afternoon’s ordinary meeting comes ahead of the council’s annual budget meeting which will take place later this week.
The budget meeting was due to take place last Wednesday, but was postponed following the director’s death.