THE former Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, Mary Harty, passed away this morning in her home.
Mary, from Nicker, Pallasgreen, was in her mid fifties and had been battling Motor Neuron Disease.
Only last week, she took part in an ice bucket challenge in her home to raise awareness of the disease.
Mary was diagnosed with MND in October 2012 when she was still serving as Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, she retired earlier this year due to her condition.
The former Fine Gael councillor also taught at Nicker National School for more than 30 years.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the county.
Cllr Daniel Butler said: “I am so saddened to hear of the passing of former colleague and friend Mary Harty. A lady, friend, colleague and true inspiration. She made the special effort to come to my first council meeting, something I will never forget. Thoughts with her family and particularly her sister who was her carer for so long.”
Commenting on Twitter, Labour councillor Joe Leddin said: “Very sad news, she was an exceptional lady with a very warm and engaging personality.
