Tributes upon death of Cork councillor Michael Creed: 'He gave generously in service to his community'

Fine Gael councillor for Macroom, Michael Creed, has passed away, aged 68.

The party confirmed his death in a statement on Sunday, with tributes paid by Fine Gael leader Simon Harris.

Mr Creed, from Carrigaphooka in Macroom, had first been elected to Cork County Council in 2009 and retained his seat in every subsequent election.

He ran in the 2024 general election in Cork North West, coming fourth in the three seat constituency, having received 7,321 first-preference votes.

Mr Harris lead the tributes to Mr Creed, saying that Fine Gael had lost a “cherished friend”.

“Michael was a warm, honest, hard-working and deeply committed public servant who diligently served the people of North-West Cork for over 17 years,” Mr Harris said.

“When I think of Michael, I think of his extraordinary work ethic and his innate sense of decency.

“As a councillor, Michael believed in putting people first – always carrying out his duties with a great sense of honour and integrity.

“Michael’s loss will be felt profoundly within the Fine Gael family, his community of Macroom-Millstreet and beyond.

“Our thoughts and prayers are very much with his family and at this difficult time."

Mr Creed's friend and party colleague Cllr John Paul O'Shea also paid tribute to the long-standing member of Cork County Council.

"He gave generously of his time and energy in service to his community and was widely respected for his commitment, integrity, and compassion," Mr O'Shea said.

"He was also a valued colleague and friend, having stood alongside me as a Fine Gael candidate in the General Election of November 2024 in the Cork North West constituency, where he worked tirelessly for our party and for the people of the region, narrowly missing out on securing a second seat for Fine Gael.

"His loss will be felt deeply by all who had the privilege of working with him and by the many people he represented over the years."