On September 17, the former Minister of Defence and Limerick West TD, Michael J Noonan passed away at the age of 78 in Milford Hospice. He was laid to rest in St Mary's Church in Meanus on Friday last and is survived by his wife Helen, children Marie, Anne, Catherine, Carmel, John and Pat, his grandchildren and a wide circle of relatives, friends and neighbours.

Originally from Bruff, he first entered the political realm in 1967 and during his time, he served as a Limerick County Councillor, a Fianna Fail TD and the Minister of Defence, before leaving politics behind him in 1997.

After he took a step back from politics, Michael was also involved in a number of community organisations, including Ballyhoura Development, where he was a director. The board and staff at Ballyhoura Development Ltd were deeply saddened to learn of his passing, saying that he supported the development of the organisation, through his ability, dedication and vision. 

Elected to the board by the communities in his district of St. Ailbe’s Maigue, Michael represented them in a professional and progressive manner and was clearly aware of the issues and opportunities in the area. However, Michael also represented the wider Ballyhoura area and ensured that the voices of all communities and clients were heard.

Michael made a significant impact as a director of Ballyhoura Development including in terms of the many programmes and initiatives. Michael’s ability to develop an indepth understanding of all elements of the organisation and to contribute, and to question, enhanced the operations of the company together with enhancing the delivery and management of programmes. His willingness to join structures, such as other boards, sub-committees and working groups was testament to his dedication, while his attendance at monthly board meetings was exemplary.

Mr John Walsh, chairperson of Ballyhoura Development, wishes to convey the appreciation of the company to Michael’s family for the significant impact which he made to the company and to the area, together with the support that he gave to the board and to the staff during his time as director. Michael was a true volunteer in terms of his contribution to and interest in community life; his positive influence and his ability to focus on solutions rather than problems gave Michael a unique perspective, of which Ballyhoura Development was a lucky recipient.

John stated that Michael is a huge loss to all the groups and organisations to which he devoted such commitment but that his loss is much much greater for his family. John conveyed the organisation's sympathies to Michael’s family, his wife Helen, his daughters Marie, Anne, Catherine and Carmel and his sons John and Pat.

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