The late Paul Coghlan was tonight remembered as a man who always had Killarney in his heart and did everything he could to promote and improve the town.
The former councillor, senator, businessman, community man and family man, who passed away last June, was remembered fondly when the star at the top of the spectacular Tree of Light, on the grounds of St Mary’s Cathedral, was dedicated to his life and his work.
Mayor of Killarney, Cllr Brendan Cronin, who officiated at the poignant ceremony to switch on the lights, said Mr Coghlan was very well respected and very well known locally and nationally.
He recalled that he had started out his public life as a member of the then Killarney Urban District Council, becoming mayor of the town on two occasions and he also served on Kerry County Council.
As his political life progressed, Mr Coghlan became a long-time member of Seanad Éireann and, in the latter stages of his long political career, he was nominated as Leas Cathaoirleach which was an honour he had been extremely proud of.
“He really achieved an awful lot in that spell. He was a man that loved public life and loved politics and he always carried out his duties to the very best of his ability,” Mayor Cronin said.
He said at home in Killarney, Paul Coghlan thrived as a husband and a parent while in his business life he, he was involved in many different aspects of the town and was very successful.
“He was involved in the setting up of Radio Kerry, he was involved with the Trustees of Muckross House and with Killarney Golf and Fishing Club and he achieved a great deal in his life,” Cllr Cronin stated.
He added that the late Paul Coghlan was an extremely kind and generous man who always had a great sense of welcome and a great sense of humour.
“Anywhere he went in life, no matter where it was, Killarney was always his pride and joy. He promoted it, he advertised it, he sold it in terms of its natural beauty, the assets and the facilities and attractions we have here.
“It was so close to his heart and he always put that flag up for Killarney. Dedicating the Tree of Light star to his memory is so fitting,” the mayor said.
The Tree of Light and the star was blessed by Killarney Parish Administrator, Fr Kieran O’Brien, who led a brief open air prayer service which was attended by the late Mr Coghlan’s wife, Peggy, his family, friends and members of the Christmas in Killarney Festival Committee and Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.
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