SINN Féin’s Tom Collopy took to his City North seat at County Hall this Monday for the first time where he was warmly welcomed by councillors from across the political divide.
Cllr Collopy of Assumpta Park, Island Road, who has filled the seat vacated by his party colleague John Costelloe, was congratulated and wished the best of luck by all present in the chamber.
Leader of the Council’s Fine Gael members, Cllr John Sheahan told Cllr Collopy that he had only heard good things about him.
“I have been told we are getting a good guy that will make for a robust councillor. I would like to wish him well,” Cllr Sheahan said.
Leader of the Council’s Fianna Fáil members, Cllr Michael Collins also welcomed Cllr Collopy to the local authority.
“I would like to welcome Tom. I look forward to working with you and wish you all the best,” Cllr Collins said.
Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon (FF) also took the opportunity to welcome his old friend to his new role.
“I would like to personally congratulate Tom, I know him a long time. We have been having political disagreements for 50 years.
“You will make a great councillor for City North,” he declared.
Social Democrats councillor Elisa O’Donovan told Cllr Collopy of her great working relationship with members of his party on the council and said she had heard “fantastic” things about him.
“You will be a real asset,” she said.
Labour Party councillor Conor Sheahan also got in on the Sinn Féin love action.
“You have big shoes to fill, but I see you brought your own,” he said.
Cllr Collopy told council members that he was extremely “proud and humbled” to be filling the vacant City North seat on the Council.
“I have never held a grudge and I don’t intend to start now. I respect each and every one of you. You are all here to serve your communities the same as me. I respect that despite whatever policy differences we may have.”
