Book of condolences to be opened after death of former lord mayor

A book of condolence will be opened this afternoon in memory of former Lord Mayor Brian Bermingham who died over the weekend.

Brian, a former Fine Gael and Progressive Democrats politician, was first elected to Cork City Council in 1979 and represented the people of Cork South West until 2009.

He was elected lord mayor of Cork in June 2008, 40 years after his father John Bermingham, who was elected in 1968.

A book of condolence will be opened by the Lord Mayor at City Hall at 2.30pm today, Monday, to mark his passing.

Cllr Dan Boyle expressed his condolences to the family and friends of Brian Bermingham: “I am saddened to learn of the death of Brian Bermingham, a councillor and former lord mayor whose family have had such a positive legacy in Cork.

“Brian’s father John was instrumental in setting up the COPE Foundation and Brian also dedicated his life to helping people through ongoing education and advocacy. He served his city well and will be remembered fondly by all those who he crossed paths with.” he said.

The Lord Mayor will also host a special meeting of Cork City Council on elected members’ agreement to pay tribute to him.

Tributes have been paid to the former politician from various walks of life. Cork Barrack Street Band said on X that he was a “key supporter of our music education program. His dedication to Cork’s community and heritage will always be remembered.”

Fianna Fáil Cllr John Sheehan said he was dedicated to helping people and Cork Business Association said he leaves a strong and positive legacy.