Minister Niamh Smyth has paid tribute to former TD Dr Rory O’Hanlon who has died.
“This afternoon’s passing of our party’s stalwart Dr. Rory O’ Hanlon has closed the curtain on a great personal and public life. I offer my heartfelt sympathies to his wife and life-long friend Teresa, his daughters Fiona and Dearbhla, his sons Rory, Ardal, Neale and Shane on his death after a wonderful life stretching over 92 years.
“My memory of Dr. Rory is a quiet unassuming gentleman filled with wisdom and gentleness. His life experience endowed him with understanding and loyalty and his advice always reassured. He promoted youth and saw the need for regeneration in every organisation he was involved with.
“His life was a life of service. Firstly, as a GP in Carrickmacross and his practice and work were renowned for the deep care, respect and humility shown to all patients. In his 33 years in public life those same qualities shone through as he devoted his ministerial and constituency work to improve the quality of life for so many. His portfolios in Social Welfare, Health, and Environment were important roles where he delivered progress and built foundations for today’s advancements. His elevation as Ceann Comhairle was an acknowledgement of his experience and the esteem Dáil members held him in.
“I enjoyed all our conversations and his insightful commentary on varied political events always opened new avenues for me. His South Armagh roots defined his strong republican values which gave him a balanced and tolerant perspective on the national question.
“Our Fianna Fail party nationally but particularly in Cavan Monaghan has lost a leader and a real gentleman with the passing of Dr. Rory O’Hanlon. Go raibh síocháin na bhFlaitheas air.”
