The Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County Council has died.
James Tobin, who was first elected to Waterford Council 23 years ago, passed away suddenly over the weekend.
The Knockanore Fianna Fáil representative had only been elected to the role of Deputy Mayor at the AGM on Thursday last.
He was to be the right-hand-man to his long-time friend and council colleague, John O'Leary.
Speaking to WLR News this lunchtime, Mayor O'Leary says it was devastating news to get:
"I am in shock and so is the whole county.
"I've been contacted this morning by a lot of people even outside the county - there's councillors, senators and TDs who have been on to my office this morning, expressing their shock and disbelief.
"It's difficult to become a legend in your own lifetime, but do you know something? James Tobin achieved that and that is quite remarkable."
The late Councillor James Tobin was the father to six children and was a former chairman of Waterford GAA's County Board.
He was also the first ever Mayor of Waterford City and County Council when they amalgamated in 2014.
Tallow Councillor John Pratt was also a close friend and colleague.
"We're all devastated and the community is devastated here," he told WLR.
"Firstly, I just want to send my sincere condolences to all his family. His own wife, Anne, only died in the last year.
"Look, James was only really just starting to come around from that and I know he'll be glad to meet Anne in his resting place."
Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council, Michael Walsh has also paid tribute to Councillor Tobin:
"Waterford City and County Council has lost a dedicated public servant and a man whose commitment to his community was consummate.
"James served as a councillor for over twenty years and in that time, his love of his family, his party and his community was evident.
"Even throughout the difficult time when he lost his beloved wife, Anne, James served with great dignity and strength.
"I would like to extend my condolences to his children, grandchildren, and extended family, to the community of Ballyhamlet and Knockanore, his party colleagues and fellow councillors."
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
