Message from Bishop Willie Walsh, Bishop of Killaloe on the death of Dr Patrick Hillery

15 Apr 2008

PRESS RELEASE
15 April 2008

Message from Bishop Willie Walsh, Bishop of Killaloe on the death of Dr Patrick Hillery

It is with a real sense of sadness that I learnt of the death of Dr Paddy Hillery.
His life as local doctor, public representative, government minister, European Commissioner and finally as President of Ireland represented all that is best in the ideal of public service. This ideal involves the generous use of one’s talents for the common good of the people one is privileged to serve without concern for personal gain. Paddy Hillery lived by those ideals.
While in his public career he contributed very significantly to the interests of our country and was well known and respected as a national and international figure he never lost interest in his native Clare. The very fact that all of us felt comfortable speaking of him simply as “Paddy Hillery” – with no added title – tells its own story.
County Clare and Ireland have been enriched by the life of a truly good man.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó a Thiarna, agus go lonraí solas suthain air.

+Willie Walsh.
Bishop of Killaloe

ENDS

Further information:
Martin Long, Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm, Communications Officer (087 233 7797)