Following the sudden death of Councillor Pat Egan on 19 July 2014, the Full Council is convened to pay its respect and give tribute to Councillor Pat Egan.
In attendance will be Councillor Egan’s close family.
The Mayor will address the meeting and this will be followed by a few words from Councillor Egan’s Son and Brother.
The Mayor will then invite the Head Teacher of St Thomas More School to say a few words.
The Mayor will then invite both current and former Members of the Council to speak in memory of Councillor Egan, and any others who may wish to speak.
At the conclusion of addresses the Mayor will give closing comments and will then formally ask that the following MOTION be MOVED.
MOTION D 2014/15
Councillor Kober has given notice that she will move the following MOTION D, to be seconded by Councillor Elliott:
‘That this Council formally places on record its heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Councillor Pat Egan who died on 19 July 2014.
This Council wishes to record the enduring care and diligence with which Councillor Pat Egan undertook his duties during his term of office from May 2006 to July 2014 in his role as Ward Councillor for Woodside Ward, as a member of various Committees of the Council and the time served as Chair of the Alexandra Palace and Park Board from December 2008 to May 2011, and then his position as Majority Chief Whip.
This Council wishes to remember Councillor Pat Egan’s strong work ethic, and character, his high moral values and principles, being both catholic, and a life long Labour supporter, and as a teacher and ex-deputy head teacher in his passion for education being the route to improve the lives of our children.
This Council recognises the role of Councillor Pat Egan as Chair of Governors of St Thomas More School, which earlier this year had been commended for being the most improved school in the country, and the acknowledgment that Councillor Egan had been a driving force behind this improvement.
This Council also recognises the contribution that Councillor Pat Egan had made to the Labour Group, Labour Party, and Borough as a whole, and that he will be remembered fondly by Councillors - both past and present from both political groups, and in extremely high esteem and regard, and from many officers of the Council, and local residents.
This Council also formally passes its condolences to Councillor Pat Egan’s wife Ann, his children Sean and Sinead, his grandchildren, his brothers, and his extended family, at the loss of such a wonderful and great man.’
Minutes:
The Mayor informed those present that following the sudden death of Councillor Pat Egan on 19 July 2014, the main purpose of the extraordinary Full Council was for the Council to convene to give a memorial to Councillor Egan (Pat).
The Mayor welcomed to the meeting Councillor Egan’s family – his wife Ann, his children Sean and Sinead, his brothers Tommy, and Johnny. The Mayor also welcomed members of Pat’s extended family Maureen Maguire, Nigel Smith, Teresa Burke, Johnny Egan, Joan Egan, Philip Egan, Mark Egan, Martina Southgate, Dee O'Connell, Bernard Smith, and May Smith.
The Mayor informed the meeting that Pat’s son Sean and his brother Tommy were going to say a few words in his memory.
The Mayor also welcomed to the meeting the representatives of St Thomas More School – Mr Martin Tissot, the Executive Head Teacher, Mr Mark Rowland - Head of School and Mr Kevin Mc Govern Vice-Chair of the Governing Body. Mr Tissot would also address the meeting.
The Mayor also welcomed all Councillors to the meeting – both past and present, and advised that there would be addresses from a number of current Councillors and two former Councillors (David Schmitz and Nigel Scott).
The Mayor commented that everyone attending the meeting was there to remember Pat. Everyone knew him differently, either as a friend, colleague, father, brother or a grandfather and all had different memories and stories that they would remember about him.
The Mayor informed the meeting that she knew that Pat would not have enjoyed such a service about himself. He had often said “I am just the hoi polloi not very important’…. but that’s not true. He was valued by colleagues, cared for by friends and loved by his family. He deserved the recognition and tributes that would be paid to him in individual ways .
The Mayor commented that speaking for herself, she would always remember Pat’s self-deprecating humour which made her laugh when it was most needed. Pat wanted to make a difference, not just to the council but to Woodside Ward and Haringey as a whole, and he certainly made a difference.
The Mayor commented that politics was a tough world, where if you don’t have friends and close colleagues, it was very easy to get isolated and get into difficulties. As the Chief Whip, Pat made an enormous effort to involve all members of the Labour group, and he stayed in touch with colleagues even when they had differences and at the same time he was very principled and expected the best from all of Councillors. On one occasion, the Mayor remembered her challenging a colleague somewhat harshly knowing that she had been in the wrong – a result of a bad day. The next day Pat had rung her to ask how she was and after talking over the incident, he said “today is a new day, move on”. That was the kind of man Pat was. He accepted people’s weaknesses and always sought to see beyond their mistakes and encourage them to reflect and then move forward.
The Mayor advised that she would say a few further words at the conclusion of members speeches.
Mr Sean Egan and Mr Tommy Egan then addressed the meeting. Both Sean and Tommy expressed, with dignity and humour, the overwhelming sense of loss that the family had felt of a husband, father, grandfather, and brother, and gave some insight to the meeting of how they were coping with the loss of this treasured family man.
Tommy in particular recalled memories of childhood and Pat’s abiding love, and honour to his parents and of their support and encouragement in his aspirations to be a teacher, and the value that was placed on education. He also spoke of Pat’s unswathing sense of community support, and his dedication to the Catholic Church, and his career as a teacher. Tommy also spoke of Pat’s love for his wife Ann, and his devotion to her, and the love of his children and grandchildren, and the family as a whole.
Sean spoke of the love and support instilled upon him and his sister Sinead, and a sense of duty to the wider community, and recalled family gatherings at Christmas and his father’s generosity and invites to those in the neighbourhood who were alone and did not a family to be with. Sean also recalled his father’s advice when he was young, his support and guidance, and contrary to his father’s view, he had followed in those footsteps and pursued a teaching career. Sean also recalled his father’s love and care of his grandchildren. He concluded that the family were still in shock and at times unable to grasp that he was no longer there. On behalf of the family Sean thanked the Mayor and officers for arranging this tribute and for the opportunity for the family to be present and to be able to express their feelings.
The Council gave a round of applause following the address.
The Mayor then asked the Head Teacher of St Thomas More School – Martin Tissot to address the meeting.
Mr Tissot, in addressing the meeting, gave an insight into Pat’s past career as a teacher, and recalled his first encounters with Pat in an east London School in the early 1980’s. Mr Tissot commented that Pat had been both a mentor and advisor to him, and was a role model, and that it had been plain to see, Pat was an exceptional deputy head teacher, and highly regarded as a fair and but no nonsense teacher, and something of a trouble-shooter, but with an overwhelming sense of compassion and care for his pupils and the school and his pastoral care. As his career progressed Mr Tissot also commented that his Path crossed with Pat in further teaching positions, and his later career as a University Lecturer. Mr Tissot recalled that he was often invited into Pat’s home and he was able to see at first hand the warmth and generosity that Pat gave effortlessly. Mr Tissot recalled Pat’s strong religious belief, and his devotion to the church and its community, which he himself was a part of. Mr Tissot also commented on the work as Governor at St Thomas More School and his efforts as Chair of Governors to strive for excellence in achievement, and that through his support to Mr Tissot, the school had achieved this status. The role that Pat had taken on had not been an easy one and Pat had accomplished this role diplomatically, passionately and with wisdom and cheerfulness.
The Council gave a round of applause following the address.
The Mayor advised that Councillors – both past and present would now address the meeting.
Councillor Waters recalled that when she had been selected as Councillor at Woodside Ward, she had been exceptionally lucky as she had two very experienced fellows – Pat and George Meehan. As a campaigner and Councillor, Pat had been so very helpful and talented a role model, and had managed surgeries so well, and even had dealt with individual complaints and concerns from non Woodside residents as he had a reputation for getting things sorted. As Chief Whip Pat had understood the role completely and would ‘step into the breach’ and substitute at Committee meetings – and not only substituted but took full part in the meeting. Councillor Waters also recalled Pat’s recall of poetry and his extensive vocabulary, and his jaunty walk. Councillor Waters concluded that he would always be missed.
Councillor Vanier spoke of Pat’s integrity and fairness, and the conversations that they both had in reminiscing about the experiences as retired teachers. Councillor Vanier recalled Pat’s extensive knowledge of education issues, the seriousness of his role a Chair of Governors, and his references to ‘Tommy Mores’ when speaking of St Thomas More School, together with the role as Chair of the Alexandra Palace and Park Board, and latterly that of Chief Whip, where he had been extremely supportive and had had shown kindness to individual group members when there had been particular issues or tensions. Councillor Vanier concluded that Pat would be personally missed by her and by many.
Councillor Carter remembered Pat’s time as Chair and member of Alexandra Palace and Park Board, and of the comments and support that he had given in respect of the proposals that Cllr Carter had put to the Board before becoming a Councillor in relation to the future of the BBC Studios and the Palace being put forward as possible UNESCO World Heritage Site, and what a tribute it would be to Pat if those proposals were to ever become a reality. Councillor Carter commented that whilst both he and Pat were on opposite political sides Pat had personally wished him well in his election, and had congratulated him on his election. Councillor Carter commented that he would always remember Pat as a true gentleman.
Councillor Griffith remembered that he had met Pat in his capacity as a fellow teacher in the LB Newham and recalled his sound advice and mentoring skills, and as mentioned, his excellent ability as a teacher. He and Pat had shared mutual friends and colleagues, all of who had the greatest respect for Pat. He also recalled the friendly banter in the talking of cricket and the performances of both England and the West Indies. Councillor Griffith also commented on Pat’s efforts leading of to the lections in May – and he being ready and engaged in the processes of candidates and giving considerable support. Councillor Griffith commented that Pat had never spoken ill of anyone. He had been a sincere and genuine individual, and unflappable. He had a secular Christian belief and that he had also supported the Council’s SACRE and recognised its importance. He was a loyal friend and colleague, in both good and bad times, and Members had always been impressed that at the political group AGM where some members had lost out in votes for positions, Pat had continued to assist and support them. Councillor Griffith concluded by passing on his sympathy and love to Pat’s wife Ann, and Pat’s family, and ended with ‘rest in peace’.
Former Councillor Schmitz in speaking to the meeting firstly commented on a further death of former Councillor Blanchard and his 28 years as a Councillor – and his tenacity and commitment to the east of the Borough.
Mr Schmitz commented that in respect of Councillor Egan, when life ends and people were called upon to remember that person, there were always occasions where someone who had exceptional and special qualities was remembered, and Pat was such a person. Mr Schmitz then commented on his involvement with Pat as a Councillor – and though on opposite political sides, and often sharing a ‘spat or two’ in debate across the Council Chamber which at times had been sharp and high toned, it was part of the political game as a politician, as afterwards there was no ill will on Pat’s part, and he remained sincere and genuine. As Chair of Alexandra Palace Pat had shown a rare spirit in breaking down political divisions and worked towards promoting a positive way forward for the future of the palace and that there was genuine admiration on the part of the local community at this. Mr Schmitz also remembered Pat’s quick wit, keen intelligence, and integrity. Mr Schmitz concluded that Pat had made a difference and always wished to do right, and he would be much missed.
Councillor Jogee recalled his first encounter with Pat – being when he himself as a young man became a member of Haringey Youth Council in 2006. The support and advice that Pat afforded him was considerable, on how to manage and deal with difficult members and how to chair meetings. He also recalled Pat’s considerable skill in canvassing and his assistance to newly selected candidates, and his ability to get a point across. He would be a much missed and much remembered man.
Councillor Basu remembered Pat not only as a great Councillor and politician but also as a Grandfather – and that everyone knew that certain days of the week were Grandparent duty days for Pat. As a grandfather himself Councillor Basu was able to understand the commitment of Pat to his family, and his role as a Grandfather, and his unswathing love for them. The loss of Pat to his family would be felt considerably and Councillor Basu passed his love and support to Pat’s wife Ann, and his children Sinead and Sean, and the grandchildren.
Former Councillor Scott informed the meeting that on such an occasion the cross party show of genuine warmth at the loss of Pat was evident. He had felt genuine shock at Pat’s death which he would feel for some considerable time. Mr Scott recalled his first dealings with Pat through Tenant and Resident meetings and had been impressed by Pat’s measured approach on issues and that he had striven to ensure that solutions were achievable. Mr Scott recalled Pat’s time as Chair of the Alexandra Palace and Park Board, when he had also been a member of the Board, and that Pat had been Chair at the right time and his efforts to ensure that party politics were not played, and his passion to achieving the best outcomes for the future of the Palace. Mr Scott recalled Pat’s efforts to ensure that there was an equality of pay when he had discovered that certain employees at the Palace were not on the same pay scales as Council employees and the subsequent changes that happened to ensure this. As Chief Whip Mr Scott recalled Pat’s efforts for fair play on both sides of the Chamber with his pragmatic approach to issues, the sign of a true politician. Mr Scott concluded that he would remember Pat with fondness, and that Pat’s passing would be felt by many in the months and years to come.
Councillor Strickland recalled his abiding memories of Pat, when as a newly selected candidate and later as ward councillor, Pat’s determination and efforts in ward canvassing and electioneering, with Pat working twice as hard as anyone to speak to residents both in the street and also on doorsteps. In all weathers Pat would be striding forward and leading the team, offering advice and support to all, remaining unflappable, cheery and charming – and that others had to make an effort to keep up with Pat. Councillor Strickland remembered that after his election in 2010 he had been approached by Pat in regard to his interest in Alexandra Palace and because of his background in charity employment, and following that discussion, he had found himself appointed the Alexandra Palace and Park Board as a member. He felt that he had been manoeuvred shrewdly by Pat, cleverly and in good faith – but that indeed the experience of sitting on the Board had been an excellent one for him as a newly elected Councillor – and Pat had known that this would have been a good outcome. He had been extremely impressed by Pat’s knowledge, passion and understanding of the complexities of the decision making processes of Alexandra Palace, and the guidance he had afforded his fellow board members, and his ability to bring together at times opposing factions, and to ensure that people were working towards a positive outcome for the palace’s future. Councillor Strickland commented that it had been a privilege to know Pat, and his kindness and support would be a loss to the Council, together with his un-flappable-ness and his genuine care of those who he worked with, and the people he served, and Pat’s efforts and un-waiving support sadly came with a huge expense to himself.
Councillor Goldberg commented that on occasions such as this it was hard to articulate the correct words to describe such an individual as Pat. Pat had been a cut above the vast majority of politicians, he had been a stickler for protocol and for doing the right thing, and a rare politician and that if there were more politicians like Pat then the world would be a much better place. Councillor Goldberg felt that Pat worked to the highest levels of integrity and honesty, and was authentic in everything which he did and that he was a font of knowledge on a whole range of subjects and matters which at times surprised people. Pat had a deep respect of history and his knowledge in this area was second to none. In terms of being a local ward Councillor he was in touch with residents and in a quiet and unassuming way achieved many results for a large number of local people. His presence and support to Alexandra Palace was weighty and his efforts and achievements at ‘Tommy More’s’ which many often heard him refer to the School as, were evident. Councillor Goldberg recalled Pat’s clear and never forgotten Irish roots, and his ability to bring to the fore private and personal experiences in understanding the difficulties and issues that people brought to him. He also recalled Pat’s attendance at the Park Road Gym together with himself and other Councillors and the discussions and comments made during exercise sessions, and the banter and humour of Pat, and never once an inappropriate comment would be uttered by Pat about anyone or any situation that was the topic of discussion – an hour session in Pat’s presence was always extended to two hours. Councillor Goldberg concluded that Pat’s loss was felt keenly by a large number of colleagues and that this would be felt for a long time to come.
Councillor Patterson commented on Pat’s huge support and advice to a large number of newly elected Councillors both pre and post election, and that his presence and understanding of procedure and protocol was so helpful and assisting to those who were just beginning to grasp the role of a Councillor. Councillor Patterson had known of Pat’s well understood efforts to bring together differences of opinion and conflicting views regarding the future of Alexandra Palace, and that he had been so effective in his manner and attitude to focus and achieve the best outcomes for the future of the Palace. He would be very much missed and remembered.
Councillor Wright, in commenting that this was his first speech since being elected at the by-election on 2 October, to fill the position of ward Councillor following Pat’s death, recalled that when he had stood and had been defeated in the May elections, a few weeks after he had received a call from Pat to commiserate with him at not being elected, and not to lose heart and faith, and that Pat had encouraged him to stay involved, as there may well be unforeseen opportunities. Councillor Wright commented on the irony of this conversation given the subsequent sad turn of events. In the lead up to the May elections Pat had offered considerable personal support and that when selected to fight the by-election he had been overwhelmed by the huge amount of grief and loss felt by the residents of Woodside Ward, and the large numbers of individuals who had know Pat personally. It was evident that Pat had been a listener and do-er, and had got things done for people. As a Chair of Governors himself Councillor Wright commented on the huge amount of time that this requires and that Pat had evidently put a considerable amount of time and effort at St Thomas More School, and that that the efforts of him had been a fantastic achievement. Councillor Wright concluded that in being elected to fill Pat’s place he hoped that he could try to be half as good as Pat had been.
Councillor Ryan recalled his own time as former political advisor to the Haringey Labour Group, where he had a positive and effective working relationship with Pat. In talking with officers in the past weeks there had been clear expressions shock, loss and great sadness at Pat’s death. Officers recalled Pat’s excellent ability to grasp and see through the role of Chief Whip, and that his understanding had greatly assisted officers. Pat had been the soul of discretion, never breaking a confidence, was always cheerful and polite, and genuinely showed concern and interest in officer welfare and working environments. He was trusted and reliable, and was consummately professional in his dealings with officers at all levels. As a Councillor he had exceptionally high standards which he upheld, and expected fellow councillors to do so as well.
Councillor McNamara commented that he had always found Pat to be a straight talking and no nonsense individual, who had a passion for all that he did. Pat made an effort with people and took time to know what made a person tick, and as a former pupil of St Thomas More School between 1985-1990, Councillor McNamara had fond memories of the school and of Pat. When he had returned as a Councillor and governor of the school he had been impressed by Pat’s integrity and motivation to achieve high standards. The results of the schools from 2010 onwards showed that the efforts of the school, led in part by Pat as Chair of Governors, had paid off and the school had improved beyond recognition. The current Head – Martin Tissot had been appointed by the process that Pat had overseen and that his appointment had proved momentous, and together he and the governing body led by Pat had exceeded all expectations. This achievement alone was a fitting tribute to such an individual as Pat.
Councillor Meehan recalled to the meeting that he had worked closely with Pat for the last 10 years as a Ward Councillor for Woodside Ward, and as a local resident rep and also through the Church. In being elected and serving on the Council, and his appointment as Chair of Alexandra Palace and Park Board, and then as Chief Whip, Pat had been one of the best. As Chief Whip he had been outstanding and his knowledge and effectiveness in this role had been a considerable bonus to the workings of the Council’s democratic processes. As a Chair of Governors, a Labour Councillor and a staunch catholic he had achieved so much in the community in which he swerved and Councillor Meehan recalled that when the results at St Thomas More had come in as ‘good’ he had remarked to Pat that this was an achievement, Pat had simply responded that ‘Good was not good enough’ and that he wanted to achieve excellent and outstanding. He had therefore worked with the Governing Body and teachers as a team to strive to achieve this goal, and this had been achieved. As a Ward Councillor he had worked effectively and tirelessly and that given all the words said about Pat this evening, it was clear that he was a consummate hard worker, a tireless local labour party campaigner – who would think it nothing to be up and delivering leaflets at the crack of dawn. Councillor Meehan concluded that that as a husband, father and grandfather, and brother, he was much loved and cherished, and that the loss expressed on behalf of the family had been felt by all present, by the words expressed by his son Sean and brother Tommy. The loss of Pat would be felt in the wider community for a long time. Councillor Meehan concluded that he would always miss Pat, and he passed his love and sympathy to Pat’s family.
The Mayor then thanked everyone for their personal contributions, and said that she wondered what would Pat have said had he heard them all.
The Mayor advised the meeting that before going on to consider the formal MOTION she wanted to add that Pat had a good memory for poems, literature and facts. He often would quote a snippet from a poem or book when it added to our thinking or a discussion. The Mayor said that she had only, the day before, been thinking about Pat as she was listening to Radio 4’s Poetry Please and one of the poems so aptly captured what she thought those present today had been trying to do in remembering Pat.
The Mayor referred to the poem ‘So many different lengths of time’ by the Liverpool writer / poet, Brian Patten and in reading it now as she asked for forgiveness for not reading it as well as Brian Pattern but she hoped that all present would think it was a fitting tribute to Pat.
The Mayor then read the poem ‘So many different lengths of time’ ;
How long is a man’s life, finally?
Is it a thousand days, or only one?
One week or a few centuries?
How long does a man’s death last?
And what do we mean when we say ‘gone forever’?
Adrift in such preoccupations, we seek clarification.
We can go to the philosophers
but they will grow tired of our questions.
We can go to the priests and the rabbis
but they might be too busy with administrations.
So, how long does a man live, finally?
And how much does he live while he lives?
We fret and ask so many questions –
then when it comes to us
the answer is so simple.
A man lives for as long as we carry him inside us,
for as long as we carry the harvest of his dreams,
for as long as we ourselves live,
holding memories in common, a man lives.
His lover will carry his man’s scent, his touch:
his children will carry the weight of his love.
One friend will carry his arguments,
another will hum his favourite tunes,
another will still share his terrors.
And the days will pass with baffled faces,
then the weeks, then the months,
then there will be a day when no question is asked,
and the knots of grief will loosen in the stomach,
and the puffed faces will calm.
And on that day he will not have ceased,
but will have ceased to be separated by death.
How long does a man live, finally?
A man lives so many different lengths of time.’
The Mayor thanked everyone for their patience in listening to her.
The Mayor then asked Councillor Kober to give her closing remarks and to MOVE the Motion D as detailed on the summons. This would be seconded by Councillor Elliott.
Councillor Kober commented that as expressed in July and at the Full Council meeting on 20 July, and this evening, the death of Councillor Pat Egan was and is a great regret for us all, and that everyone in attendance was here to honour a man who was greatly respected on both sides of this chamber and outside it. Councillor Kober commented that Pat was definitely not a man for pomp and ceremony - he never sought the limelight or indulged in his own success and Councillor Kober felt sure tonight’s proceedings would have made him a little uncomfortable although his enduring sense of protocol would have made it impossible for him not to attend.
But while Pat may have preferred to guide from the sidelines, it was right that the Council recognised his life and immense contribution to the Council this evening.
Councillor Kober commented that Pat was fundamentally a man of great decency and principle with strong Labour values which could be clearly seen in his lifelong passion for education. Pat saw education as the route to improve the lives of children from every background. He had no tolerance for complacency when it came to improvising standards and inspiring children to achieve their full potential. This passion had made him an excellent teacher and later, an inspirational mentor to new teachers embarking on the profession.
Councillor Kober commented that it was also not surprising then, that under Pat’s diligent stewardship as Chair of Governors at Sir Thomas More School, it was heralded as the most improved school in the country only last year and graded outstanding by OFSTED - something which he would rightly never let us forget! Pat was tremendously proud of the accomplishments of St Thomas More and that it was fitting that and pleasing that that some of his school colleagues have been able to attend this evening.
Councillor Kober further commented that there was no doubt that Pat was ultimately a family man. His devotion to his wife, children and grandchildren was plain to see. Many of his Council colleagues knew that Fridays in particular were ‘grandfather day’ and while he was always on the end of the phone to offer sage advice if needed, few things could pull him away from the time he would spend each week with Maisie, his youngest granddaughter – time which he cherished greatly.
Councillor Kober remembered Pat personally as a loyal friend and confidant and that she would personally miss him as such. Pat had joined the Council with her at the same election in 2006 and both their lives on the Council often overlapped but never more so than over the last three years when Pat became the Labour Group Chief Whip, a role he excelled at and definitively made his own.
As a new Councillor and later as Leader, Councillor Kober stated that she had grown to value Pat’s pragmatic approach to every situation, the unwavering high standards which he expected of his colleagues and always set for himself and his critical eye for detail. He had never been afraid to say it like it is, and Pat was firm but fair, always supportive and extremely generous with his time and experience.
Councillor Kober recalled that as a tenacious campaigner, Pat had refused to let his ill health dampen his determination to see a Labour victory at the election in May. He was never more pleased than as the results came in at Alexandra Palace, a place he knew well from his time as Chair of the Board as an unequivocal Labour victory was called not only in his own ward of Woodside but across the borough. Councillor Kober added that inevitably the campaign trail took its toll on all but Pat conscientiously resumed his Whips duties and set about making sure that a new 48 member-strong Labour Group was ready to take on their new roles and lead the Council and the borough forward.
It was only weeks later that Pat was forced to take a step back and immediately his absence was felt. I know I speak for many colleagues, both Members and officers alike, when I say that Pat has been greatly missed over the past few months and he will continue to be so.
In drawing her comments to a close, Councillor Kober said that Pat was stanchly passionate about his ward and he would regularly refer to Woodside as the citadel or the front line of the West. He and his ward colleagues Cllrs Waters and Meehan were a formidable trio and you only needed to speak to local residents on polling day at the Woodside by-election two weeks ago to hear the high esteem they are all held by. It was in tribute to Pat’s legacy that another Labour Councillor was elected to replace him in Woodside and the Council welcomed Councillor Charles Wright to the meeting this evening.
Councillor Kober concluded that Councillor Pat Egan’s legacy in Woodside, in St Thomas More School, in the Labour Party and in this Council was a testament to the man he was. He would be sorely missed and fondly remembered.
Councillor Kober formally MOVED the following motion in memory of the late Councillor Pat Egan.
‘That this Council formally places on record its heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Councillor Pat Egan who died on 19 July 2014.
This Council wishes to record the enduring care and diligence with which Councillor Pat Egan undertook his duties during his term of office from May 2006 to July 2014 in his role as Ward Councillor for Woodside Ward, as a member of various Committees of the Council and the time served as Chair of the Alexandra Palace and Park Board from December 2008 to May 2011, and then his position as Majority Chief Whip.
This Council wishes to remember Councillor Pat Egan’s strong work ethic, and character, his high moral values and principles, being both catholic, and a life long Labour supporter, and as a teacher and ex-deputy head teacher in his passion for education being the route to improve the lives of our children.
This Council recognises the role of Councillor Pat Egan as Chair of Governors of St Thomas More School, which earlier this year had been commended for being the most improved school in the country, and the acknowledgment that Councillor Egan had been a driving force behind this improvement.
This Council also recognises the contribution that Councillor Pat Egan had made to the Labour Group, Labour Party, and Borough as a whole, and that he will be remembered fondly by Councillors - both past and present from both political groups, and in extremely high esteem and regard, and from many officers of the Council, and local residents.
This Council also formally passes its condolences to Councillor Pat Egan’s wife Ann, his children Sean and Sinead, his grandchildren, his brothers, and his extended family, at the loss of such a wonderful and great man.’
Councillor Elliott, in seconding the MOTION commented that she was only sorry that she had not known Councillor Egan for longer and that the tributes given had been heart felt and true.
On a vote the MOTION was passed unanimously and it was:
RESOLVED
That this Council formally places on record its heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Councillor Pat Egan who died on 19 July 2014.
This Council wishes to record the enduring care and diligence with which Councillor Pat Egan undertook his duties during his term of office from May 2006 to July 2014 in his role as Ward Councillor for Woodside Ward, as a member of various Committees of the Council and the time served as Chair of the Alexandra Palace and Park Board from December 2008 to May 2011, and then his position as Majority Chief Whip.
This Council wishes to remember Councillor Pat Egan’s strong work ethic, and character, his high moral values and principles, being both catholic, and a life long Labour supporter, and as a teacher and ex-deputy head teacher in his passion for education being the route to improve the lives of our children.
This Council recognises the role of Councillor Pat Egan as Chair of Governors of St Thomas More School, which earlier this year had been commended for being the most improved school in the country, and the acknowledgment that Councillor Egan had been a driving force behind this improvement.
This Council also recognises the contribution that Councillor Pat Egan had made to the Labour Group, Labour Party, and Borough as a whole, and that he will be remembered fondly by Councillors - both past and present from both political groups, and in extremely high esteem and regard, and from many officers of the Council, and local residents.
This Council also formally passes its condolences to Councillor Pat Egan’s wife Ann, his children Sean and Sinead, his grandchildren, his brothers, and his extended family, at the loss of such a wonderful and great man.’
The Mayor then invited all those present to attend the reception in Committee Rooms 1 and 2.
There being no further business to discuss the meeting ended at 20.53hrs.