Tánaiste pays tribute to former Tralee Mayor Jim Finucane who died aged 68

Kenneth Fox

The Tánaiste has paid tribute to former Fine Gael Councillor Jim Finucane, who has died at the age of 68.

The former Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council and Mayor of Tralee was a politician for almost 30 years.

Simon Harris says he devoted his life to Kerry and represented the county with honour, humility and purpose.

In a statement, the Tánaiste said: "It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of my friend and former colleague Jim Finucane, a man who devoted his life to Kerry, to Fine Gael and to the people he represented with honour, humility and purpose.

"For close to forty years, Jim gave everything to public life.

"Elected first to Tralee Town Council in 1986 as the only Fine Gael Councillor, where he served for 14 years.

"He was later elected to Kerry County Council in 2009 and re-elected in 2014 and 2019, proudly representing the people of Tralee and its surrounding communities until his retirement last year.

"Jim’s career was defined by his unwavering commitment, conviction and humanity.

"He was twice Mayor of Tralee and in 2023 was elected Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council."

Mr Harris said he was a deeply proud Kerry man, proud of the culture and its people.

"To Jim’s wife, Sheila, his children and his grandchildren, I want to extend my heartfelt condolences. Their loss is immense, and they are in my thoughts and prayers.

"Jim Finucane left Kerry better than he found it.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."