Fianna Fáil Councillor Dies At Donegal Rally

Tributes have been paid to Donegal Fianna Fáil Councillor Manus Kelly who died while competing at the Donegal International Rally.

The motor racing champion, who had won the event for the last three years, was killed after his Hyundai i20 R5 left the road on stage 15 of Sunday's race.

His co-driver Donall Barrett is receiving hospital treatment for injuries sustained in the crash.

Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin TD expressed his deep sadness at the tragic death and offered his sincere condolences and those of the Fianna Fáil party to Mr Kelly's wife Bernie, his five young children, his parents Jacqueline and Donal, and to each of his eight siblings.

"As three time consecutive and reigning champion of the Donegal International Rally, Manus's racing talent was limitless. He was widely respected and loved by all of the rally community here in Ireland," he said.

"Manus had just embarked on a promising career in local politics having recently been elected to Donegal County Council representing the Fianna Fáil party. It was obvious throughout his recent election campaign that he was passionate and entirely committed to serving the people of the Letterkenny electoral area which he cherished.

"Manus made a huge contribution to his community. As a self-employed businessman, he employed 60 people in Letterkenny. He was an active fundraiser and advocate for the Letterkenny University Hospital. He had great commitment to the GAA and managed his local club, Glenswilly to Junior B success in 2016.

"He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and all those closest to him. My thoughts this evening also remain with Manus's co-driver and loyal colleague, Donal Barrett. Manus's death is an immeasurable loss to us all.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dhílis."



(JG)