Paul Coghlan
Paul Coghlan | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 1, 1944 Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland |
| Died | June 8, 2023 (aged 79) |
| Occupation | Politician |
| Years active | 1992–2020 |
| Known for | Leas-Chathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann (2016–2020), Senator for Industrial and Commercial Panel (1997–2020) |
Paul Coghlan (1 June 1944 – 8 June 2023) was an Irish politician affiliated with Fine Gael. He held the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann between June 2016 and March 2020 and represented the Industrial and Commercial Panel as a Senator from 1997 until 2020.
Coghlan stood as a candidate in the 1992 general election for the Kerry South constituency but was not elected. He also sought election to the 20th Seanad via the Agricultural Panel, though he did not secure a seat at that time.
His successful entry to the 21st Seanad came in 1997 through the Industrial and Commercial Panel, followed by re-elections in 2002 and 2007. Throughout his service, he acted as Fine Gael's spokesperson on matters concerning the Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
Born in Killarney, County Kerry, Coghlan played a key role as a founding director of Radio Kerry. He held leadership roles including President of the Killarney Chamber of Commerce and Chairperson of Muckross House, where he also served as a trustee. His professional affiliations encompassed the Institute of Bankers in Ireland, the Life Assurance Association, and the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers.
His experience in local governance comprised membership on Kerry County Council, Killarney Town Council, and participation with the Dingle Harbour Commissioners. Additionally, he contributed to the British–Irish Parliamentary Assembly and was active on the committee responsible for implementing the Good Friday Agreement.
Coghlan chose to retire from public office in 2020, opting not to stand in that year's Seanad election. He passed away on 8 June 2023 at the age of 79.