Tribute by John Bruton, former Taoiseach
I wish to join with hundreds of other present and previous public representatives, of all parties and none, in paying tribute to the memory of former Senator Paul Coghlan, who died last week.
The extent of the heartfelt tributes from members of parties, other than Fine Gael, shows how Paul acted as a politician.
He had a warm welcome for everyone. He understood and valued the sometimes maligned political art of compromise.
A native of Killarney, he was active in promoting the town, and Co Kerry more generally.
He was a Fine Gael member of Killarney Urban Council and of Kerry County Council. This was at a time when Fine Gael had little political representation in Kerry, and he carried the Fine Gael flag proudly. As party leader at the time, I valued this very much especially the fact that Paul stood for
the Dail in 1992.
Paul was a founding director of Radio Kerry, and a Trustee of Muckross House, both of which, in very different ways, improved the quality of life in Kerry.
Paul would not have been able to do all this without the support of his wife Peggy, and all his family.
I extend heartfelt sympathy to them at this very sad time. I will remember him in my prayers.