The ever-humble Councillor Ian McGarvey often says “it’s never about McGarvey”.
But this evening, on the occasion of his retirement, it was all about Ian.
Glowing tributes were made to the tireless Ramelton councillor as he retires from politics at the incredible age of 92.
Councillor Ian McGarvey is Ireland’s oldest county councillor, and could well be one of the world’s oldest politicians.
After 18 years in the council, Cllr McGarvey said a fond farewell to his Letterkenny-Milford colleagues today. He passes the mantle onto his nephew, Pauric McGarvey, who will be formally co-opted to the council in the coming weeks.
A gentleman, a captain and a caring champion of the people, Cllr Ian McGarvey has dedicated his time in politics to speaking up for others in need. At times, he has been frustrated by the restricted power of the local authority, but he never let that interfere with his integrity.
Reflecting on his political career today, Ian said his principles were guided by “never ignoring anybody” and a “desire to do something to provide a better way of life”.
“It’s a pleasure to have served on the council,” he said.
“It never was about me but about the people I went out to represent.”
Elected members and the executive make a presentation to Cllr Ian McGarvey at the Letterkenny Municipal District Council Meeting on Tuesday last where Ian McGarvey retired from his council seat handing it over to Pauric McGarvey. Photo Clive Wasson
Ian was first elected to Donegal County Council as an Independent in 2004 at 73 years young.
He went on to become the first Independent Mayor of Donegal in 2012. In 2018 he was elected Mayor of Letterkenny-Milford and he also ran in four general elections.
Cllr McGarvey earned his seat in politics with great determination. He first contested a seat back in the 1974 local elections. By the time he was elected, he was six weeks short of his 74th birthday. At this age, many other people would be retired, but Ian had always been community orientated, and he had things he needed to do.
Mayor of Letterkenny-Milford Cllr Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly issued a personal thanks to Cllr McGarvey today for his service to Donegal.
Cllr Kelly said it was an honour to chair Cllr McGarvey’s last meeting, which was described as a historic day.
“Your devotion has been unbelievable, and the manner you have held yourself in has been unbelievable,” Cllr Kelly said.
At the beginning of today’s meeting, Cllr Kelly also led the condolences to Cllr McGarvey and his wife Marjorie on the sad passing of their daughter, Marina, in November.
A vote of sympathy was extended by all councillors.
Cllr McGarvey acknowledged the condolences of all members and staff and said: “I couldn’t but express appreciation and thanks for the devotion and support at such a difficult time.”
As the meeting came to a close, councillors took the opportunity to tell stories of their times shared with Cllr McGarvey.
Chief Executive of Donegal County Council John McLaughlin said it was a sad day, but also positive.
“You leave at a time of your own choosing, in the best of health, and you walk out the door with your head held high,” Mr McLaughlin said.
Mr McLaughlin said it has been a privilege for Donegal to have Ireland’s oldest serving councillor, but Cllr McGarvey’s age did not define him – it was his beliefs, his honesty and his integrity.
Mr Liam Ward, Donegal County Council Director of Service, spoke of his pride for Cllr McGarvey.
“I always enjoyed your company and I have great respect for you. It’s not about McGarvey, it never was, that shone through very strongly.”
Cllr Donal Coyle echoed the admiration and said Cllr McGarvey was an example to all: “It was never about McGarvey, but on this occasion, it is about you.
“This has to be a historical occasion to have Ian McGarvey, approaching his 93rd year, still as active and passionate as he ever was regarding what he can do and what can be done for the people he represents.”
Cllr Ian McGarvey on election day in 2019
Cllr Ciaran Brogan praised Cllr McGarvey’s many contributions to life in Donegal, including the care of the aged, Friends of Letterkenny University Hospital, group water schemes and many other community projects which he participated in long before being an elected representative.
“The one thing you always wanted to do was make Ireland, Donegal and Ramelton a better place for everybody else,” Cllr Brogan said.
“Today is a proud and happy day for you.”
Mayor of Letterkenny-Milford Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly and CE of Donegal County Council John McLaughlin make a presentation to Cllr Ian McGarvey
Cllr Gerry McMonagle praised Cllr McGarvey’s “second-to-none” love for his community, while Cllr Jimmy Kavanagh said Cllr McGarvey is a “complete one-off, a totally unique individual”.
Cllr McGarvey expressed his thanks to all councillors and the executive for their words today, commenting that he was humbled by the remarks. He also warned that he won’t be taking a complete rest from politics, and he’ll be keeping an eye on the issues close to his heart as Pauric takes his place.
Cllr McGarvey also took the chance to reflect on his highlights with the council, which include walking the New York City parade on St. Patrick’s Day, representing his municipal district in Rudolstadt and (despite being a lifelong teetotaler) having a German vineyard dedicated to him and his wife Marjorie. Ian has many achievements to list, but his 68-year marriage is the most important of all.
Outside of politics, Cllr McGarvey was well-known as a talented footballer who made a massive contribution to soccer since the late 1940s. The highlight of his playing career came on the 13th of May 1962 when he captained Swilly Rovers to the FAI Junior Cup title at Dalymount Park. For his achievements in sport, McGarvey will be the 47th inductee into the Donegal Sports Star Committee Hall of Fame this month.
