“Ernie Caffrey was one of the great Mayo Fine Gael stalwarts of his generation"

Party tributes to former Mayo senator and councillor Ernie Caffrey

The Mayo Fine Gael organisation has expressed its deep sadness at the passing of former Senator and Councillor Ernie Caffrey, Ballina, who served his community and county with distinction over many decades.

Mr. Caffrey died yesterday at his home at Garden Street, Ballina, surrounded by his family.

Mayo Fine Gael members across the county are joining with the people of Ballina and the wider community in mourning the loss of a dedicated public representative, community leader and proud Fine Gael man.

Ernie served as a member of Mayo County Council, Ballina Urban District Council and as a senator in Seanad Éireann from 1997 to 2002.

Mayo Fine Gael executive chair and former MEP, senator and TD, Jim Higgins, said: “Ernie Caffrey was one of the great Fine Gael stalwarts of his generation and a proud son of Ballina.

"Throughout his life he was deeply committed to public service, community development and the values of Fine Gael.

"Whether serving on the local council, in Seanad Éireann or working quietly behind the scenes, Ernie always put people first.

“He was respected across political divides as a gentleman, a loyal colleague and a tireless advocate for his community.

"His contribution to public life in Mayo was immense and his legacy will endure through the many people he helped and inspired over the years.

“On behalf of Mayo Fine Gael, I extend our sincere sympathies to his children Liam, Declan, Elizabeth and Miriam, his grandchildren, extended family, neighbours and wide circle of friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

The passing of Ernie Caffrey is a profound loss to Ballina and to all in Fine Gael, said Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD.

“Ernie was a man of deep integrity, community spirit, and unwavering dedication to the people he served.

"His decades of public service on Ballina Urban District Council, Mayo County Council and in Seanad Éireann, his generosity, and his steady, sincere manner left a lasting mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”

"A keen athlete throughout his life, Ernie also represented Ballina Athletic Club at several Masters championships over the years, carrying the same determination, discipline, and pride into sport that he brought to his work and community service.

“Ernie embodied the very best of public life, steady, sincere, and always guided by a genuine love for his community. Ballina is better for his service, and we are all better for having known him.”

Minister Dillon extended his sincere condolences to Ernie’s family, his five children, extended family, his many friends, and all who mourn him. May he rest in peace.

Deputy Keira Keogh said Ernie's loyalty to the party and his community was evident in his running as a Fine Gael candidate in four successive general elections between 1989 and 2002.

"He was a tireless advocate for those he represented and leaves behind a proud legacy.

"One particularly proud moment for Ernie and his family came a few short years ago when his daughter met the then US President Joe Biden during his visit to the North Mayo Heritage Centre on his historic visit to Ireland in April 2023.

"Ernie presented Biden with a brick from the fireplace of the president's ancestral Blewitt family homestead in Ballina."

Senator Mark Duffy stated: “He was one of life’s true gentlemen. A dedicated public servant down through the years  and a great friend and support to me.

"I have fond memories of bringing President Biden’s team to visit Ernie and learn about the connections that tied him to the area including the infamous brick which he presented to President Biden in 2023.

"He gave great support to me in the General Election of 2024 and was a helping hand during the Seanad campaign that followed. My condolences to his family on their great loss."

Reposing at McGowan's Funeral Home, Ballina, this evening (Monday) from 5 to 7 p.m.

Funeral will arrive to St. Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina, on Tuesday morning for 11.30 a.m. Requiem Mass followed by burial in Leigue Cemetery, Ballina.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.