Meelick and Swinford saddened by death of Garda Joe Shiel

Meelick and Swinford saddened by death of Garda Joe Shiel


Michael Commins

PROFOUND sadness and sorrow was occasioned by the recent death of Joe Shiel, Meelick, Swinford. Joe was a serving member of An Garda Siochana and was stationed in Tubbercurry. He was 51.
Joe commanded the height of respect and regard in the areas in which he served and in his own community. He was especially noted for his compassionate nature that helped guide many on the right track.
He was an exemplary member of An Garda Siochana and his kind and helpful manner was appreciated by many who experienced those traits at first hand. He belonged to the ‘old school’ and always loved to lend a helping hand, the few words of advice and encouragement well chosen and delivered from the heart.
As a colleague he was in the top league. He served in Carrick-on-Shannon before being appointed to Collooney where he was stationed for many years prior to his appointment to Tubbercurry around three years ago. He had a great understanding of rural people and got on famously with them.
Born and raised in Swinford town, the family had long associations with Meelick and Joe and his wife Anne (nee Moran from Parke, Castlebar) built their own home in Meelick in the mid-1990s. He loved farming and the company and friendship of the farming fraternity.
“Joe was a great neighbour and a friend to everyone. He loved to be of help and was one of the best. We will all miss him around Meelick,” said a neighbour.
The large crowds at the funeral ceremonies were truly reflective of the regard and esteem in which he was held throughout the region. Numerous colleagues were also present on both days to pay their respects.
Removal took place from Campbell’s Funeral Home to Swinford Church with burial in Meelick Cemetery following Requiem Mass celebrated by Fr Dermot Meehan, PP.
Joe is survived by his wife Anne, daughter Lorraine and sons Kevin and David, mother Sally, brother Frank and sisters Mary, Catherine and Paula, relatives, neighbours, colleagues and many friends.