The funeral takes place this afternoon of Shannon Councillor Mike McKee.
Large Crowds are gathering at St Peter and Paul’s Church this lunchtime, to remember the Sinn Fein Councillor, who passed away on Friday.
As family and friends prepare to say farewell, there have been tributes to his political legacy, particularly in Shannon.
Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald there, speaking of the great loss felt within the party, following the passing of Mike McKee last Friday.
The 61-year-old Belfast native lived in Shannon since the mid 70’s.
He was a well known local business man, and played an active role in community groups and campaigns as an elected member of Shannon Town Council and, since 2014, Clare County Council.
He campaigned heavily for a number of local projects, including Shannon Crematorium.
While, just ten days ago, he appeared at the opening of Shannon Town Park.
There are now calls for it to be renamed in his honour.
His party colleague, Donna McGettigan, who also lives in Shannon, says he was much more than a politician.
Independent Shannon Councillor Gerry Flynn worked alongside Mike throughout their political careers.
He says it was a privilege to work with a man who knew how to get the job done.
The funeral mass of Mike McKee takes place from 1:30 this afternoon at Ss. John and Paul’s Church in Shannon, following which a cremation service will be held at Shannon Crematorium.
He’s survived by his wife Eileen, son David, daughter Jeanette and family.
May he rest in peace.
