Retiring Sinn Fein Councillor, Liam Doherty, was today described by one of his toughest political opponents as both ‘approachable’ and ‘a gentleman’.
Cllr Gerry Crawford (FF) made the comments at today’s final meeting of the Lifford-Stranorlar MD ahead of next month’s local elections. Cllr Doherty confirmed earlier this year he was not running for re-election.
His SF colleague, Gary Doherty, led the tributes.
“This is Liam’s last ever meeting and I want to pay tribute to you for what you have done over the past ten years in the council,” he said.
“You were a great colleague and represented the people well in the area you covered and, in particular, in your hometown of Convoy.”
Despite wearing his Fianna Fail hat, the affable Cllr Crawford wanted to add to the tributes.
“I concur with that. Liam was always approachable and a gentleman. He was one of the quieter ones of the group, but got a lot done and was always very helpful to me.”
Cllr Patrick McGowan (FF) said Cllr Doherty had been an excellent Cathaoirleach of the Lifford-Stranorlar MD and wished him all the best in the future. Cllr Martin Harley also thanked the Convoy man for his ‘friendship and cooperation over the past ten years.’
Describing him as an ‘absolute gentleman’, Patsy Lafferty, Director of Housing, paid tribute to the outgoing councillor and thanked him for his courtesy towards council staff.
In conclusion, an emotional Cllr Doherty said a big thank you to all staff he had dealt with over the past decade.
“Thanks for all the kind words, they really mean a lot to me,” he said.
“It wasn’t an easy decision for me to make to step away. I’ve made a lot of good friends and I will miss it, but I’ve made my decision. I wish all of you all the best in the elections.”