DANNO McSweeney’s retirement as caretaker of Bandon court house after 35 years not only marks the end of his working life but also the end of an era, as the building will no longer have a caretaker.

Warm and heartfelt tributes were expressed to the 88-year-old man from the judiciary, legal profession, gardaí, probation service and the press at a recent sitting of Bandon District Court.

Judge Joanne Carroll said she had only known Danno a short time since she was appointed as a new judge for District Court 18 (West Cork) earlier this year, but found him very reliable and friendly.

‘He took pride in his work and this court won’t be the same without Danno. I wish him a happy retirement,’ said Judge Carroll.

She also read out sincere comments and best wishes from her judicial colleagues including Circuit Court judge Helen Boyle, District Court judge Mary Dorgan and former District Court judge James McNulty, who all wished Danno well in his retirement.

Insp Emmet Daly, speaking on behalf of An Garda Síochána expressed their sincere gratitude to Danno for his ‘immense service’ to the Court Service in Bandon.

‘He was always supportive of the gardaí when he was needed, whether it was for a special sitting being arranged at late notice or indeed a Coroner’s Court being held,’ said Insp Daly.

‘He was so friendly to everyone who attended court and we will all miss his good humour and warm character.’

On behalf of the Courts Service, Leonard MacCarthy from Clonakilty Court Office – who is also retiring  – thanked Danno for his incredible 35 years of service ensuring that the courthouse was always ready for court sittings and more importantly the heating was put on!

‘He played an immense part in the district court here in Bandon and he will be sorely missed and I wish him all the best in his retirement,’ he said.

Solicitor Myra Dinneen, speaking on behalf of Mary Jo Crowley of the West Cork Bar Association, noted that there will probably never be a caretaker at Bandon courthouse again and that it marked the end of an era.

‘It is indeed an historical event because Danno was here for 35 years and I know him for years. He was his own counsel and he was so dedicated to his job. He was very kind to me and we all want to wish the best in his retirement,’ said Ms Dinneen.

Shane Murphy from the Probation Service said he wanted to acknowledge how accommodating he has been to all their staff and also wanted to acknowledge the kindness he showed to all their clients.

On behalf of the fourth estate, Southern Star reporter Kieran O’Mahony also thanked Danno for the kindness and patience he showed to all court reporters over the past 35 years and wished him all the best in his retirement.

I recalled to much laughter in the court room of one particular time I found myself locked in the court house after a long day transcribing court cases.

‘Luckily, Danno was still in his car outside and left me out, much to my delight and tired head!’