18 June 1997
by Deirdre Kelly
Glowing tributes were paid to Deputy Michael Ring by his colleagues on Westport Urban Council at last week's meeting of the authority.
Council Chairman, Mr Dermot Langan was first to congratulate Mr Ring on his "wonderful achievement at heading the poll." He said he looked forward to Mr Ring representing the people of Westport and Mayo well in the Dail.
His applause was seconded by Mr Patrick Durcan who also expressed the appreciation of the council to Deputy Seamus Hughes. He thanked him for the service he had given the community during his four and a half years as a TD
"Westport is the loser, not having two deputies. It was nice to have two voices at the government table," he said, "I hope his time in national politics is not over."
Mr Durcan also paid tribute to President Mary Robinson on her UN appointment.
Mr Sean Staunton, on behalf of the Fianna Fail party, congratulated Deputy Ring "on his phenomenal achievement."
"I don't think anyone expected him to do so well even though most thought he would be re-elected," he said.
Mr Staunton described his election campaign as "a victory for hard work." However, he said, Bertie Ahern as Taoiseach would not have the support of a very worthy TD, Seamus Hughes.
Mr John Joe O'Malley and Mr Martin Keane also congratulated Deputy Ring. Mr Keane said his work rate in the community was appreciated by all in the county. He added: "In opposition I am sure you will work as hard as in government." He also thanked Mr Hughes for his work in the county and at national level.
Town Manager, Mr Padraic Hughes, on behalf of himself and the council officials also paid tribute to Mr Ring and Mr Hughes.
Deputy Ring thanked the manager, chairman, the members and staff of the council for their kind words. He also thanked all the people who voted for him. He paid tribute to Mr Seamus Hughes saying he had a role to play in the political future.
Mr Ring added: "I will be working as hard as I can in opposition for the people of Mayo."
