Statement from An Tánaiste on the death of Jim Finucane

It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of my friend and former colleague Jim Finucane, a man who devoted his life to Kerry, to Fine Gael and to the people he represented with honour, humility and purpose.

For close to forty years Jim gave everything to public life.

Elected first to Tralee Town Council in 1986 as the only Fine Gael Councillor where he served for 14 years.

He was later elected to Kerry County Council in 2009 and re-elected in 2014 and 2019 proudly representing the people of Tralee and its surrounding communities until his retirement last year.

Jim’s career was defined by his unwavering commitment, conviction and humanity.

He was twice Mayor of Tralee and in 2023 was elected Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council.

Throughout his life Jim was passionate about education.

I had the pleasure of working with him when he was Chair of the Kerry Education and Training Board where he and I transformed the scale and reach of educational opportunity in the county. In fact he played a central role in the development of Kerry College.

Jim fundamentally believed that every person, regardless of age or background, should have every opportunity to reach their full potential.

Jim’s service went beyond politics and education. He was deeply involved in community life from reviving the Blennerville Windmill to supporting the Kerry Hospice Foundation, to the Tidy Towns and countless local sports and voluntary groups. His contribution was immeasurable.

In recent years, Jim became a driving force behind Kerry’s response to the arrival of Ukrainian families.

His compassion and determination earned him national and international recognition. Earlier this year he was appointed Honorary Consul of Ukraine for the South-West of Ireland, the first such position in the country. It was a fitting honour for a man who led first and foremost with humanity.

Those of us who had the privilege to know Jim will remember a man of warmth, humour and enthusiasm.

He was a deeply proud Kerry man, proud of its culture and its people.

To Jim’s wife, Sheila, his children and his grandchildren, I want extend my heartfelt condolences. Their loss is immense and they are in my thoughts and prayers.

Jim Finucane left Kerry better than he found it.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.