The farming world was saddened to hear of the passing of Pat Gilhooley on Sunday. The genial Leitrim man made friends all over the country, particularly through his IFA activities.

From Foxwood, Aughnasheelin, in the heart of Co Leitrim, Pat served as the county chair of Leitrim IFA and subsequently served on the rural development committee where he was elected vice-chair.

He resigned that position early last year to contest a seat in the local elections. Representing Sinn Féin, he was desperately unlucky to miss out on a seat by only two votes.

Passionate advocate

Pat Gilhooley was a passionate advocate of farming, particularly the drystock farming that predominates in his own region.

He was always proud of the quality of the cattle and sheep produced and of the quality of farmer that survives and thrives in the most challenging of weather conditions in some of the most difficult land in the country.

A forthright and highly respected representative, he was always good company when the meeting was over.

He died following an illness that he, by all accounts, fought with his customary bravery and decency. Our sympathies to his wife Mary, his family, neighbours and his many friends from near and far.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.

19/11/13 Pat Gilhooley in full flow at an IFA meeting. Picture: Finbarr O'Rourke

Pat Gilhooley at a cattle sale at Drumshanbo Mart, Co Leitrim, with mart manager Eoin Kane.