Tributes to retired court clerk

Tributes were paid at Nenagh District Court last Friday week to Circuit Court Clerk Gerard Connolly on the occasion of his retirement.

Mr Connolly, who was also Returning Officer for elections and referendums in Tipperary, retired on Friday after 40 years of service.

Judge Elizabeth MacGrath led tributes to Mr Connolly and the “exemplary fashion” with which he served Tipperary over the years. He had been of great support to the solicitors and gardaí, and was extremely understanding and supportive of the judges’ role.

“He’s not here today, but I wouldn’t like the day to go without recognising Gerard Connolly’s input to this county over the years,” Judge MacGrath said.

On behalf of the solicitors, Elizabeth McKeever wished Mr Connolly well in his retirement. A “gentleman”, he had always been of great support to the practitioners in Nenagh, Ms McKeever said, recalling in particular his help when Nenagh was at risk of losing its court several years ago.

Sergeant Michael Keating wished the retiree well on behalf of an Garda Síochána. “He always dealt with everyone with a courteous and fair manner, no matter who they were,” Sgt Keating said of Mr Connolly.

Court Clerk Tommy Mockler joined in paying tribute to his Clonmel-based Courts Service colleague. All present stood and gave a round of applause in honour of Mr Connolly.