Retiring Laois councillor leaves them laughing with witty goodbye
A retiring Laois councillor kept his witty comments right up to his final appearance as Portlaoise Municipal District councillor this week.
The last farewells were given to Portlaoise man Noel Tuohy who has retired early, to continue his treatment for Parkinson's Disease.
The Labour party councillor who served on the seat since 2014, had the funny quips as always after his colleagues and council management said lovely things about him.
"It's a pity you didn't say that before the last election, I'd have topped the poll.
"I've done my best, with not too many enemies. This is a lovely day for me. I promised Marie a dinner out for St Valentine's Day but I was able to cancel it because you are giving us one today. It all worked out very well," Cllr Tuohy joked.
He praised his wife who is being co-opted to take his seat.
"You can't teach me anything about shaking hands, but Marie has shaken many over the years. You couldn't be getting a better person. I'm very proud of her and wish her the best," Cllr Tuohy said.
Director of Services Simon Walton had praised his work record.
"I speak for all the executive when I thank you for the courtesy you showed to us and your understanding of your role. You championed many causes and some will still bear fruit over the coming years. I wish you well, it is a new chapter for you now. Congratulations on your service to Portlaoise and the council and the besto luck to Marie in filling your shoes," he said.
The Cathaoirleach of Portlaoise MD is Cllr Barry Walsh.
"The response on social media on your decision to retire shows how highly you are regarded. On behalf of all the Municipal District members, thank you for your contributions over the years. I wish you good luck and welcome Marie unofficially today as well," he said.
All six colleagues wished him and Marie well, including Cllr Thomasina Connell who described him as "a rock of sense, kind and sincere", and Caroline Dwane Stanley who praised him as "a strong advocate for community particularly for disability".