Mark Clinton made a significant contribution to public affairs as a member of Dublin County Council, as a Dβil deputy, as Minister for Agriculture and later as a member of the European Parliament.
Born in Moynalty, Co Meath, he was educated by the Christian Brothers in Kells, at Warrenstown Agricultural College and at University College Dublin, where he acquired a Diploma in Social and Agricultural Science.
As estate manager of Peamount Hospital, he displayed those qualities as an administrator and successful farmer, which were subsequently recognised and admired on a wider scale. Here he showed himself an innovator by establishing a workshop and training for patients who were able and willing to avail of the opportunities offered which helped them in recovery from illness.
His service on Dublin County Council and the committees of the council was notable for solid achievement.
The number of years he served on hospital boards was long and he made an immense contribution to better hospital and health services. Recognised as a good and effective member of these boards to such an extent that he was chairman of all these hospitals at different periods is a striking tribute to his capacity and competence as a negotiator. This work was all the more remarkable, as it was entirely voluntary.
He was a member of St James's Hospital, Stewart's Hospital, Hume Street Hospital, Meath Hospital, James Connolly Memorial Hospital, Central Council Dublin Federated Voluntary Hospitals, Dublin Regional Hospital. He was a member and also served as chairman of the County Dublin Vocational Committee where he spearheaded a progressive approach to many of the courses under the VEC.
These courses were of benefit to many students who acquired training and qualifications. He recognised and promoted actively the advantages of the VEC courses and training.
He had an immense knowledge over a wide sphere of activities with a practical approach to the problems which arose. The extent of his detailed knowledge of all aspects of farming was quite remarkable. Dairying, tillage, bloodstock breeding, horticulture, fishing and processing - he could discuss all these with a proficiency based on practical and intimate experience.
The capacity he displayed on all these matters impressed all who had dealings with him. He had no patience with those who proposed theoretical solutions to problems but who could do little about anything practical. In this he sometimes included colleagues.
He had less time for the theorists in the European Union who lacked the realism he possessed in abundance. He was, above all, a realist.
It was a privilege to have him as a colleague as Minister for Agriculture 1973-77 where all his qualities were shown to advantage.
These attributes were no surprise to those who knew him but amazed those who were not aware of his talents. In his tenacity as an advocate for the farmers' interests at government meetings and in the European Union, he had few equals and no superior.
The knowledge and experience he had of local government administration and finance was as extensive as his knowledge of agriculture. In this sphere his advice was always most valuable on matters such as housing, roads or drainage and water schemes or in negotiation on estimates, working conditions or wages. He had the know-how necessary for progress.
He played Gaelic football for Meath and was an accomplished horseman. He hunted as often as his busy life allowed him to do. He owned a number of horses, which won races at the South County Dublin Harriers point to point, as well as jumping competitions at horse shows.
He served the country faithfully and well. Vera joins me in extending our sympathy to Dorothy and his family.
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