Council calls for recognition of exceptional public service by late Mary O'Rourke

A call for the naming of a significant piece of infrastructure in recognition of the exceptional public service contribution made by the late Mary O'Rourke was made by Cllr Paul Hogan at the recent sitting of Athlone-Moate Municipal District.

Raising the motion, Cllr Hogan stated that it was only fitting that the late politician's contribution to public life was recognised in her home town.

"Firstly elected to serve the Athlone community in 1974, Mary O'Rourke became a commanding and well respected figure in politics serving a number of senior Ministerial roles and elected to Seanad Éireann on two occasions, serving as leader of the Senate from 2002-2007," Cllr Hogan said.

"Her political career spanned a number of decades during which time she also filled the role of Deputy leader of Fianna Fáil.

"Mary O'Rourke made a positive impact to the infrastructure of Athlone during her time as a politician so I deem it to be fitting that her memory should be recognised by the Municipal District in recognition of her feats."

The councillor noted that he had a number of infrastructure locations in mind which could be named after the late political figure but his preference would be to speak with members of the family to gauge their interest before proceeding.

"There are numerous options which I have in mind both east and west of the River Shannon but we shouldn't proceed without speaking with the family members to gauge if they are interested in such a proposal," Cllr Hogan said.

Cllr Vinny McCormack stated that it was only fitting to honour the legacy of Mary O'Rourke in Athlone.

"Mary O'Rourke's contribution to Athlone was immense and it is only fair that she is recognised in this regard as soon as possible," Cllr McCormack said.

Concurring, Cllr Tom Farrell stated that Mary O'Rourke "broke the mould" in Irish politics and paved the way for more women to seek political election.

In response, a spokesperson for the council executive noted that the marking of the exceptional public service contribution that Mary O’Rourke has made was for the members consideration.

"If the members have a particular piece of infrastructure in mind, a meeting can be arranged to discuss and agree on the specific proposal, prior to consultation with the family," the spokesperson stated.

In advance of the motion, Cllr Aengus O'Rourke made the decision to remove himself from chamber as the discussion commenced.