'A beacon of integrity': Tributes paid to Bernard Allen at special meeting of Cork City Council

“A beacon of integrity and a paragon of civic duty”, a person who was “good humoured and honest” and a “humanitarian” is how the late Bernard Allen was described at a special meeting of Cork City Council held to pay tribute to the former Lord Mayor, Minister of State and TD for Cork North Central.

Following Mr Allen’s passing, the Lord Mayor of Cork councillor Dan Boyle called the special meeting, inviting the Allen family, former Lords Mayor of Cork, TDs and Senators to attend.

Speaking at the meeting Mr Boyle, who served alongside Mr Allen on council and as a member of Dáil Éireann, said he always found him to be “friendly and encouraging”.

He acknowledged Mr Allen’s efforts in developing sports infrastructure in Cork and said he served as a public representative “with vigour”.

Colm Burke, Minister of State and Fine Gael TD for Cork North Central, also particularly noted Mr Allen’s achievements in developing sports facilities.

“He wasn’t slow to make sure that when he was in a position to deliver, he delivered,” Mr Burke said.

His party colleague councillor Damian Boylan said Mr Allen’s “dedication, leadership, and compassion” leaves an “indelible mark” on the city.

“Bernard was more than a public servant; he was a beacon of integrity and a paragon of civic duty.

“His tenure as Lord Mayor was marked by visionary leadership, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among the diverse tapestry of our city's residents.” 

As a Minister of State Mr Allen’s commitment to public service “shone brightly”, Mr Boylan said.

“His focus was always people-centric, designed to uplift the most vulnerable and ensure that every voice was heard.

“His work in social services, education, and sports brought tangible improvements to countless lives, most especially in his beloved northside.

“Bernard's belief in equality and justice guided his actions, making him a steadfast advocate for those who needed it most.

“Beyond his professional achievements, Bernard was a man of deep personal warmth and kindness.

“He had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel valued and important, whether in a formal council meeting or a casual conversation on the street.

“His genuine interest in the well-being of others was evident in every interaction, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.” 

A former Fine Gael Junior Minister, Mr Allen began his political career in 1979, when he was first elected to the then Cork Corporation, in what was then the North Central ward.

In the 1981 general election, Mr Allen was elected to Dáil Éireann as a Fine Gael TD for Cork North Central, and he retained his seat at every subsequent election until his retirement, after 30 years in the Dáil, in 2011.

In 1988, he served as Lord Mayor, and in 1994, when Fine Gael returned to government, then Taoiseach John Bruton appointed Mr Allen Minister of State with special responsibility for youth and sport.

Between 2007 and 2011, Mr Allen served as chair of the Public Accounts Committee.

Workers’ Party councillor Ted Tynan, who was first elected onto council the same year as Mr Allen, described him as a “humanitarian”, while Fianna Fáil councillor Seán Martin said Mr Allen had “enjoyed the cut and thrust of local and national politics” and “worked hard for the city”.

Meanwhile, Independent councillor Paudie Dineen described him as a “good humoured and honest” person.

Mr Allen will be laid to rest at St Finbarr’s Cemetery this afternoon following a funeral mass in the North Cathedral.