The former deputy leader of Fianna Fáil and iconic Irish politician, Mary O’Rourke, has passed away at the age of 87, according to family confirmations. Ms O’Rourke, a significant figure in Irish politics who was known to represent Longford-Westmeath in the Dáil, held her position in Fianna Fáil from 1994 to 2002.
O’Rourke was part of the notable Lenihans, a political dynasty based in Athlone. Her brother, Brian, was a stalwart Fianna Fáil minister within the administrations of Charles Haughey, and his sons – Brian and Conor Lenihan – served as TDs, with Brian being the finance minister during the financial downturn.
Known as one of the country’s most recognisable politicians for quite some time, O’Rourke had been a part of the cabinets of Charles Haughey and later, Bertie Ahern. After she lost her Dáil seat in 2002, she joined the Seanad and became the leader of the House. She made a comeback to the Dáil in 2007, only to lose her seat once again in 2011.
Even after her political career, O’Rourke continued to remain a prominent public figure through her writings and broadcasts. It’s known that she had been suffering from an illness in recent times.
Her son, Feargal, has since lauded his mother in a post on X, reminiscing how she always urged her sons to treat everyone with respect, be honest, work devotedly, study diligently, and love their family.
Additional information to be updated soon…
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