Taoiseach pays tribute to former minister Gerard Collins
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed deep sorrow following the passing of Gerard Collins, a dedicated public servant and former minister. Collins’s extensive career shaped Irish and European politics profoundly, spanning over three decades in office.
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The Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, has announced with great sadness the death of his close friend and esteemed former colleague, Gerard Collins.
Collins first entered Dáil Éireann in 1967, succeeding his late father, James Collins, in a Limerick West by-election. He maintained his seat in every election until retiring in 1997 and represented Munster as a Member of the European Parliament from 1994 to 2004. Throughout his thirty-year tenure in Irish politics, he served with distinction as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Justice on two occasions each, as well as Minister for Posts and Telegraphs.
Gerard Collins’s legacy reflects a lifetime of service dedicated to the betterment of Ireland. He was instrumental in safeguarding the State during challenging times as Minister for Justice and played a pivotal role in Ireland’s European affairs, notably during Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council. His efforts helped secure backing for German reunification and advanced the Maastricht Treaty negotiations, laying the groundwork for the Euro. Additionally, as Vice President of the European Parliament, he influenced regional development policies benefiting Ireland and other member states. The Taoiseach extends his heartfelt condolences to Collins’s wife, Hilary, and his family, including Minister Niall Collins.
Collins first entered Dáil Éireann in 1967, succeeding his late father, James Collins, in a Limerick West by-election. He maintained his seat in every election until retiring in 1997 and represented Munster as a Member of the European Parliament from 1994 to 2004. Throughout his thirty-year tenure in Irish politics, he served with distinction as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Justice on two occasions each, as well as Minister for Posts and Telegraphs.
Gerard Collins’s legacy reflects a lifetime of service dedicated to the betterment of Ireland. He was instrumental in safeguarding the State during challenging times as Minister for Justice and played a pivotal role in Ireland’s European affairs, notably during Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council. His efforts helped secure backing for German reunification and advanced the Maastricht Treaty negotiations, laying the groundwork for the Euro. Additionally, as Vice President of the European Parliament, he influenced regional development policies benefiting Ireland and other member states. The Taoiseach extends his heartfelt condolences to Collins’s wife, Hilary, and his family, including Minister Niall Collins.
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