Tributes paid to former Lord Mayor of Cork Joe O'Callaghan

The Lord Mayor of Cork has expressed his deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Lord Mayor of Cork Joe O’Callaghan who passed away this morning.

A native of Blarney, Joe O’Callaghan in his time represented both the North Central and North West wards.

The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Kieran Mc Carthy, said: “On behalf of the people of Cork, I would offer my deepest condolences to Joe’s family, friends and the people he served as an Elected Member.

“Joe served a distinguished term as Lord Mayor of Cork in 1995 and will be remembered as a proud and dedicated trade unionist and a tireless representative for the communities he served.” 

Joining the Lord Mayor in paying tribute to Mr O’Callaghan, Independent councillor Ken O’Flynn described Mr O’Callaghan as “a respected colleague, a cherished friend, and an exceptional individual who touched the lives of many”.

“During his tenure as a councillor alongside my father and later on myself, Joe's unwavering commitment to public service was evident," he said.

"His invaluable support and guidance played a vital role in my own political journey, especially during my bid for parliament. His expertise and dedication were truly remarkable.

“Joe's legacy as the Lord Mayor of Cork in 1995 stands as a testament to his passion for representing workers' unions and his deep love for Cork City and his hometown of Blarney. His experience and tireless efforts left an indelible mark on our community.

“Beyond his professional achievements, Joe was a devoted husband and father. He cherished his family and held a special place in his heart for his beloved Cork city and the people of Blarney.” 

He remembered Mr O’Callaghan’s kindness, sincerity, and warm nature and described him as “someone we were lucky to have in our lives”.

Fianna Fáil councillor Tony Fitzgerald said he was sorry to hear of the passing of the former Lord Mayor and shared his deepest sympathies to his wife and family.

“I knew Joe for many years as he was my ITGWU shop steward when I worked in the CUH,” he said.

“When I entered politics he became a ward colleague in the North West Ward and we worked closely on many issues and party politics never got in the way.

“During his term as Lord Mayor, he campaigned and highlighted for apprenticeship schemes and a fair wage for those entering the hospitality sector. God rest his soul.” 

Speaking to The Echo, Independent councillor Mick Finn said: “It is very sad news to hear of Joe’s passing which came as a great shock. Joe was a one-off and had an inimitable style.

“He worked hard as a councillor for his community and as Lord Mayor for his city during his term in the mid-90s. 

"My sympathies to his family and party colleagues. He certainly did it his way.” 

Fianna Fáil councillor Colm Kelleher said: “Mr O’Callaghan served our city with distinction as Lord Mayor in 1995, a stalwart of local government he will be sadly missed. 

"My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very sad time. God rest his soul in heaven.”

Fine Gael councillor Des Cahill described Mr O’Callaghan as “one of the most likeable people” he served on the Council with.

“He loved representing his area and he will be both sadly missed and fondly remembered,” he said.

Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent also served on the City Council alongside Mr O’Callaghan for a number of years and described him as “a genuine guy”.

“I know at one City Council meeting we had heated words but we shook hands on more than one occasion after that and despite any political differences I always found him personable, approachable and a good guy,” he said.

“He was a longtime public representative in local elections and he stood in general election and I know he was a trade unionist. I think everybody would say he cared a lot about Blarney, his own area.

“He was a larger-than-life character and I found him to be a genuine guy.”