IT was an emotional occasion at County Hall this Monday for the family of the late councillor Richard Butler as his son Daniel filled his father’s seat.
In what was described by council members as a “sad and bittersweet day”, the 34-year-old was the only candidate proposed by Fine Gael as he was joined at council chambers by his mother Bernie, wife Tanya, daughter Layla and sister Susan.
Daniel’s late father Richie, a former Cathaoirleach, died last December aged 56 after battling cancer.
Welcoming Daniel into the fold at County Hall, Cllr Leo Walsh (FG) said it was a “great honour” to propose the young Raheen man to his father’s seat. Cllr Walsh predicted a “bright future” for him.
Cllr Rose Brennan (FG) seconded Cllr Walsh’s proposal. “Daniel has big shoes to fill, but no better man,” said Cllr Brennan.
After his co-option the new councillor received applause and good wishes from his council members and local authority staff.
Council Cathaoirleach John Sheahan (FG) said he had “been flung into an unusual situation where you face straight into a local election. But I have no doubt that you will make a very short but worthwhile contribution”.
Cllr James Collins (FF) told Daniel that his father was still missed but predicted that he would make a “very good replacement”.
The new council member described the momentous occasion as a “bittersweet day”.
“My father never looked at borders and preferred instead to walk across boundaries. I intend to continue that tradition. My father would have been reluctant to even let me sit here but I look forward to contesting the local elections and hope I do my father proud.
“I will walk in my own shoes and take the knowledge I have learned from my mother and father with me,” he concluded.
