Official’s Council contribution praised
Thomas Hunter-McGowan. Photo Tony Keane.
KILDARE County Councillors have paid tribute to one of their senior officials who is departing for a job in Northern Ireland.
Thomas Hunter McGowan was said by officials and elected members alike to have played a key role in the Council’s financial affairs during his relatively short time here.
He is leaving the Council for a job with an all Ireland trade body.
County Manager, Michael Malone, said Mr. Hunter McGowan had made a “huge contribution” in overseeing the work of the the Council’s finance department.
His ability was recognised elsewhere with his participation in a Department of Environment Efficiency Review.
Mr. Malone said his colleague came from the private sector before moving into local government and his knowledge of that sector was invaluable.
Mr. Hunter McGowan, who he described as “witty and friendly,” was a Town Manager for Newbridge Town Council and a board member of the Riverbank. “He was a friend to all of us particularly to me.”
Mr. Malone said of his move to the north/south trade body. “Their gain is our loss. I’ve no doubt he will do a very good job.”
Cllr. Tony O’Donnell, wished the departing the official the best. Cllr. Senan Griffin described him as “a gentleman, unassuming and extremely courteous.”
Cllr. Griffin added that “he will probably try to promote hurling in Newry.”
Cllr. Seamie Moore described him as “very helpful.
Cllr. John McGinley congratulated him on his appointment. “He will be a big loss to the Council.”
He had been to explain extremely complex financial matters in a straightforward manner.
Responding, Mr. Hunter McGowan, a Donegal native, said normally you only get these type of comments when you are dead.
He told Cllr. Griffin he was Donegal was his football team and Cork was the hurling team he supported.
He said Kildare County Council has always been progressive and Newbridge Town Council is on the right road.
He thanked everyone for their comments and wished them all the best.
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Weather for Naas, Ireland
Thursday 23 May 2013
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