Fógraí bháis - Aidan Collier

On Saturday November 5 Drogheda Sinn Féin lost one of its stalwart members when its long-standing treasurer Aidan Collier passed away after a short illness.

Aidan had been an active republican all his life but in the aftermath of the 1981 Hunger Strike he got involved in Sinn Féin. He helped steer the local party through turbulent years. He was one of those unsung heroes who carried out the mundane, routine political work that is essential for any political party.

He worked tirelessly during the election campaign of Louth TD Arthur Morgan in 2002 and seen his tireless work rewarded when Drogheda candidates Dom Wilton, Matthew Coogan and Imelda Munster took seats in the 2004 local elections. Aidan also travelled North to take part in canvassing during the Assembly and Westminster elections and helped out in Joe Reilly's campaign earlier this year.

Aidan's year centred on his trips to Bodenstown, Edentubber and the party's Ard Fhéis. As a member of the office board of Drogheda Sinn Féin he helped organise the annual Easter commemoration and was Chief Steward as the parade marched to the Halpin/Moran monument.

Aidan was a devoted family man and his wife Bernie, children Sandra, Martina, Paul, Jacqueline and Tracy where proud to accompany him to republican events.

Aidan's Tricolour-draped coffin followed a lone piper to his final resting place flanked by a Guard of Honour from fellow members of the Bobby Sands Cumann, Sinn Féin. Drogheda Sinn Féin Chairperson, Hughie McShane presented the flag to his wife Bernie.

Aidan was a good republican, family man, trade unionist, community activist and above all a friend and will be sorely missed by all in Louth Sinn Féin.

Aidan's month mind Mass will be held on 8 December at the 11.30 Mass Our Lady of Lourdes, Drogheda.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dílis

By Cllr Matthew Coogan