"A Remarkable Woman" - Tributes Paid To Former Minister Mary O'Rourke

Thursday, 3 October 2024 15:58

The former Deputy Leader of Fianna Fáil passed away on Thursday.

Mary O'Rourke was a public representative who "transformed" her home town through her advocacy in politics.

Longford Westmeath TD Robert Troy is paying tribute to the work the former Minister did for Athlone after she passed away at the age 87 yesterday.

She was first elected to the Dáil as a Fianna Fáil TD in 1982 and served as Deputy Leader of the party from 1994 to 2002.

Former RTÉ Midlands Correspondent and Midlands Northwest MEP, Ciaran Mullooly, says she was never afraid to confront the truth:

Former Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, says she made a huge contribution to public life:

Former Westmeath Fianna Fáil TD, Donie Cassidy, says Mary O'Rourke was a pleasure to work with:

The former deputy Fianna Fail leader spent 25 years as a TD in Dail Eireann over two spells.

President Michael D. Higgins says she had a shrewed and magnetic approach to politics and politicians.

Deputy Robert Troy says she leaves a genuine legacy:

In her time in the Dail, she served as Education Minister and Health Minister among other portfolios under different Governments.

Taoiseach Simon Harris says Ms. O'Rourke was a force to be reckoned with both in terms of political nous and in terms of being a magnetic personality that drew people in.

Speaking to Midlands 103, she said the night Eamon de Valera visited her home in 1943 inspired her to get involved in politics:

Current Minister for Education Norma Foley says Mary O' Rourke showed women could and should have a place in politics:

The President Michael D Higgins is describing Mary O'Rourke as having a shrewd and magnetic approach to politics.

Tánaiste and Fianna Fáil leader, Micheál Martin TD is expressing his deep sadness at hearing the news:

"Mary was a remarkable woman who made an outstanding contribution to Irish public life and to the modernisation of Ireland. As a member of a great political family, her contributions, alongside those of her father, brother, and nephews, left a lasting impact on our society.

"Her distinguished career as Deputy Leader of Fianna Fáil, Minister for Education, Minister for Health, Minister for Public Enterprise was marked by her intelligence, versatility, and unwavering dedication. As Minister for Education she championed reform during challenging fiscal times, always supporting a liberal and holistic approach.

"It was a privilege to serve with her in cabinet from 1997-2002, where I witnessed firsthand her intelligence, leadership, and deep commitment to public service.

"Beyond her political achievements, Mary was a commanding and engaging figure—an insightful observer of both political life and societal trends. Her wit and keen sense of the country, both in its present state and future potential, made her a cherished colleague and friend. My thoughts are with her family during this difficult time, especially Feargal and Aengus and her grandchildren. She will be deeply missed."