The late Mary O’Rourke, Minister for Education (third from right) on the occasion of the official opening of Gaelscoil Aogán, Oileán Chiarraí on College Road in October 1988. Included are from left: Sean Ó Ciardubháin, Mick Long, MCC; Denis Foley, TD; John Geaney, Síle Kenny, Minister O’Rourke, Margaret Brosnan and Cáitlín Uí Ghrifín. ©Photograph: John Reidy 17-10-1988.
Yesterday’s announcement of the death of former Fianna Fáil TD, Minister and Senator Mary O’Rourke, nee Lenihan, at the age of 87 has led to an outpouring of tributes from colleagues of all hues.
President of Ireland Michael D Higgins said that Mary O’Rourke “had a shrewd and magnetic approach to politics.”
On a more local level, tributes have come in from Minister Norma Foley now the holder of the post once occupied by the late Mrs. O’Rourke.
Cllr. Michael Cahill, who has been nominated to contest the forthcoming general election for Fianna Fáil in Kerry, also put pen to paper on hearing the news.
Minister Norma Foley’s Tribute to the late Mary O’Rourke
“So very sorry to learn of the passing of Mary O’Rourke.
My sincerest sympathy to her family.
A role model and a trailblazer, a mentor and a guide for so many women in the world of politics. Feisty and fearless, Mary always stood her ground and was a wonderful advocate for those who needed it most. Her legacy is rich.
Rest in peace, Mary. Thank you for everything.”
Mary O’Rourke R.I.P. Cllr. Michael Cahill’s Tribute
“It is with deep sadness that I learned today of the passing of Mary O’Rourke nee Lenihan, the former TD and Minister in Dáil Éireann.
Mary was part of a great political family, a Fianna Fáil dynasty.
She served her constituents in Longford-Westmeath and Westmeath diligently and with great heart, dignity and grace for nearly three decades as a Teachta Dála and as Minister in a number of departments.
Mary O’Rourke was definitely a woman of substance. She was also a regular visitor to South Kerry.
I would like to extend my sincere sympathies to all of the extended O’Rourke and Lenihan families at this sad time.”
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