‘A fearless and insightful advocate’ – Tributes paid to former Louth state solicitor Gerry Daly

By Francis Carroll, The Drogheda Independent

Tributes have been paid to Gerry Daly, former Louth State Solicitor, who has passed away.

The Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan native filled the role between 1989 and 2010, and has been remembered as formidable and fearless, and as a kind and generous man.

Mr Daly’s sister Mona and niece Amy were present at Dundalk Circuit Court to hear him being fondly recalled by friends and colleagues.

He began his legal career in Drogheda and while State Solicitor for more than 20 years worked alongside four county prosecutors, John O’Hagan, Turlough O’Donnell, Rod O’Hanlon and Kevin Segrave.

Fergus Mullen, who succeeded him, described Gerry as a fearless and insightful advocate, who also served as President of the State Solicitors’ Association. Their mothers were first cousins.

On his appointment in late 2010, Mr Mullen said that Gerry congratulated and wished him well, with the advice that he retain Catherine Gallagher.

Ms Gallagher remains in the State Solicitor’s office to this day, Mr Mullen pointed out.

Longstanding friend Paddy Goodwin believed that his colleague was the first Drogheda solicitor appointed State Solicitor in Co. Louth.

He said he was great craic and very engaging.

Conor MacGuill spoke of a formidable practitioner and opponent, while Donough McDonough remembered the kindness of a man who was bright and always funny.

Mr Segrave, the last of the county prosecutors Gerry worked with, said he successfully married two quite different legal eras.

He added that he was an accomplished rower in UCD who always spoke of his family. He was a dedicated prosecutor and man.

Head of Dundalk Court Office, Patricia Erasmus said it was an honour to hear of Gerry Daly’s legacy and impact.

Judge Dara Hayes, who was joined on the bench by Judge Mary O’Malley Costello, remembered the kindness and generosity of a good and decent person who could be properly tough to be against.

A minute’s silence was observed in the courtroom.

Gerry Daly passed away on January 22 last, peacefully, in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.

He will be sadly missed by his daughter Joanna, sons James and Stephen and their mother Bernie, grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother and sisters, extended family and friends.