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07 Sept 2025
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07 Sept 2025
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Former St Mel's College, Longford teacher and Independent councillor Des Guckian passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, May 22 following an illness.
Des Guckian represented the Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District for over a decade, being first elected to Leitrim County Council in 2014.
A native of Annaduff, he officially stepped down from the Council on April 11.
His daughter, Irene Guckian-Rabbitte, was co-opted to the seat previously held by her father during May’s Council meeting, held at the Kilbracken Arms Hotel in Carrigallen on May 6.
Cllr Guckian-Rabbitte showed emotion as she took her father’s seat, stating, “I’m honoured to be here today. It is an emotional time for me and my family and little did I ever think I would be stepping into my father’s shoes.
“I understand that I have a lot to learn but I will endeavour to represent the concerns of the people of the Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District to the best of my ability.”
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The late Des Guckian was widely recognised for his outspoken nature, dedication and passion for issues he believed in. He was known to never hesitate to voice his concerns.
His contributions were acknowledged during the May Council meeting, where fellow councillors paid tribute to his distinctive presence and commitment.
“He was a man who was very passionate about this county and the area he represented. He was never shy about putting forward what he considered to be important,” Cllr Paddy O'Rourke said.
“He was a champion of those he believed were left behind by systems.”
CEO of Leitrim County Council Joseph Gilhooly echoed these sentiments, saying,, “He was very committed to representing those who brought issues to him and he worked very hard to see the conclusion of those issues.
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“He brought great attention to detail and interest in any aspect of the work here that he took an interest in, which was almost everything,” he added.
Funeral details are yet to be confirmed.
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