One of Clare’s longest serving Councillors has been hailed for almost four decades of community representation.
Cooraclare Fianna Fáil Councillor Bill Chambers announced his resignation from politics yesterday.
Though he wasn’t expected to contest the local elections next year, there was a sense of shock yesterday evening, as Bill Chambers’ resignation was announced.
First elected to the Kilrush Constituency in 1985, Chambers was elected Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council in 2016, the first from Cooraclare to assume the Chairmanship of the 28 member council.
The father of five is known for his quiet determination in terms of representing his community and his wider vision for west Clare, as well as his ability to build consensus across party lines.
Among those in political circles to wish Bill Chambers well is his party colleague, Loop Head Councillor Cillian Murphy, who says his four decade long campaign for sewerage infrastructure in Cooraclare will be one of his greatest legacies.
Bill Chambers’ resignation will come into effect at the December meeting of the local authority, after which, another Fianna Fáil representative will be co-opted into his seat.
Clare Fianna Fáil PRO, Michael McTigue says his resignation will give aspiring Councillors in the area an opportunity to put their name forward.
You can listen to the full interview below.
His West Clare MD Colleague, Independent Councillor Ian Lynch has said “Councillor Bill Chambers is An absolute gentleman, a pure gentle giant, a great public servant and a great friend in and out of the chamber.
“Bill had great pride in our county and was he was so proud when he was elected mayor. Not only did he serve his County well but also all his constituents in Cooraclare and the wider West Clare area.
“He was a great man to always answer the phone and any time I need advice or a vote in the chamber I could rely on Bill.
Bill lead the charge in ensuring Cooraclare was selected as a pilot project for waste water infrastructure, the project is not across the line yet but all of the councillors in West Clare MD are determined to see the project through to keep up Bills work.
“While devoted to his County there was always a greater love for Bill and that was his family. He was so proud of his family and I remember him saying after an election that while the result was great he was so looking forward to get back to time with his family.
“Bill wishing you the best of luck and health in the future, I hope you have many an enjoyable day with your family you deserve to put your feet up.
Thank you Bill, enjoy your retirement,you will be missed”.
In a statement to Clare FM, Meelick party colleague, Cathal Crowe TD has said his good friend Councillor Bill Chambers “gave years of outstanding service to the communities of West Clare and the county overall.
“Bill gave me plenty of advice and support over my 16 years on the Council and, in more recent times, since my election to the Dáil, we had worked hand-in-hand to deliver a sewage scheme for Cooraclare.
“Bill had a gentle but effective way of pursuing issues on behalf of his electorate and was always able to work with others to get things done!
“Wishing Bill the very best on all fronts as he retires from elected office – Thank you for your service Bill”, he concluded.
