14 April 2022

Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan and Monaghan, Brendan Smith has paid tribute to former TD Jimmy Leonard, following his passing.

Deputy Brendan Smith stated: “I was very saddened to learn of the death of my former Dáil colleague, Jimmy Leonard.  May he Rest In Peace.

“Jimmy was a tireless, diligent and loyal worker for all constituents. He was a powerful advocate for peace on this island and cross-border co-operation even in the darkest days.  Jimmy always championed the needs of rural Ireland and the less well off in our communities. He brought to his political work a great and incisive knowledge of farming and the agri-food sector.  I know that he gave great help to many start-up enterprises that went on to provide valuable employment locally.”

The Cavan and Monaghan TD added: “Jimmy was held in high esteem throughout our own country and by parliamentarians from other states.  He worked very well along with colleagues from the Oireachtas and from Westminster in the early days of the British-Irish Inter-Parliamentary Body when there were very difficult relationships between Ireland and Britain.

“Outside of politics Jimmy was a great family man, a community activist and a strong supporter of different sports including gaelic games. He was an extremely decent and honourable colleague to work with at constituency and national level. His daughter Ann, as a Senator, carried on that fine tradition of public representation.

“To Jimmy’s devoted wife, Tess, his children, Raymond, Joe, Colette, Ann, Ciarán and extended family I convey my deepest sympathy.” “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”