Kilkenny TD Dick Dowling remembered as a 'brilliant orator who gave back'

Recently departed Councillor Dick Dowling was warmly remembered at the April meeting of the Piltown Municipal District.

Cathaoirleach Ger Frisby said: “I’d like to extend our sympathies to Dick Dowling on his passing. He was a long standing servant and gave great service to the Piltown and South Kilkenny area. We extend sympathies to Dick’s wife, his sons and daughters and extended family. He was still active up until very, very recently He gave back the whole time.” 

Councillor Pat Dunphy recalled meeting Dick at the beginning of his time in Council. “Dick was an excellent speaker at Council level. He was a fantastic Councillor locally.” 

Councillor Fidelis Doherty spoke about Dick’s talent at public speaking: “Someone asked him a question at a meeting and he was still on his feet an hour later. He was a brilliant orator.” 

Councillor Tomás Breathnach spoke about being one of Dick’s pupils, back when he was teaching at De La Salle. He said: “I am probably the only one here who remembers him as a teacher. When I arrived as a first year at De La Salle many years ago, Dick was a highly respected Maths teacher. He had a great way with us as youngsters because he made your mind explore things that maybe you hadn’t thought of before."

Cllr Breathnach reflected on how Dick spoke in Irish during council meetings: “He had a great grá for the Irish language."