Titan of politics in Limerick Gerry Collins passes away

A TITAN of Limerick politics has sadly passed away this Sunday morning.

Gerard (Gerry Collins), who turned 88 two weeks ago, from Abbeyfeale, died in Tralee Hospice. It is understood the proud and long-serving Fianna Fail man been unwell in recent months.

His brother Sean Collins only passed away last April. An acquaintance of Mr Collins who last met him at Sean Collins' funeral said he was in great spirits and "as sharp as a tack".

"He was the same old Gerry, he was retracing, recalling events, and as politically astute as ever. He was one of those characters who you would think would live forever.

“He was that old-style politician - great knowledge and had great charisma. He could talk to anyone, mix it with anyone and make everyone feel he had their undivided attention," he added.

Mr Collins served as a TD for the Limerick West constituency for 30 years - from 1967 to 1997.

He leaves a proud political legacy in Cabinet. Mr Collins was Minister for Foreign Affairs from March 1982 to December 1982 and 1989 to 1992, Minister for Justice from 1977 to 1981 and 1987 to 1989, Minister for Posts and Telegraphs from 1970 to 1973.

Mr Collins was also an MEP for the Munster constituency from 1994 to 2004. By his side through it all was his beloved wife, Hilary.

The Collins Fianna Fail dynasty was started by Mr Collins’ father - James John Collins - who was a Fianna Fail TD for Limerick West from 1948 to 1967. During the Irish War of Independence, he took part in several attacks and operations against British Forces and served as Brigade Adjutant, West Limerick Brigade, Irish Republican Army. After his death, his son Gerry was elected as a TD and went on to hold a number of senior ministeries during his 32-year career.

Sean Collins’ son, Niall - the current Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine - has continued on that political legacy. The Collins’ are the longest continuing serving family in Dail Eireann.

In an interview with Limerick Live at the General Election count in 2024, Gerry Collins told Limerick Live he had been elected to the Dail for the first time almost 60 years ago but he can remember it like it was yesterday.

"My first election was in 1967 in a by-election and I remember I got 14,000 first preferences. Fine Gael's Willie Madden got 10,000 and Labour's Willie O'Dwyer got 2,000. For me it was quite a feeling (to be elected)," said Mr Collins.

He said he still "loved politics".

"I do but I find it strange though, it's not the same thing that I experienced in my time where you've met the people, and you've had chats, and talked to them, and you listen to the people.

"The secret is be a good listener to the people and be available to them. And I always genuinely, genuinely felt that my obligation at all times were the people who elected me. I was answerable to them," said Mr Collins, who was warmly greeted by many across the political spectrum.

May Mr Collins rest in peace.

More to follow…