Statement from Taoiseach Simon Harris on the death of Mary O'Rourke

It is with great sadness that I today learned of the death of former Minister, Mary O'Rourke.

Mary 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. She had a wicked sense of humour and a fantastic turn of phrase.

However, Mary was a deft operator and her career, spanning three decades, saw her reach the top of Irish politics and take on the boy's club, with vim.

She was a grassroots politician in every sense of the word and has written poignantly about the love and support of her husband and partner in life, Enda, and of the loss and grieving of his death. She sparked a conversation that many people found great comfort in.

To all of Mary's many friends and supporters in her beloved Athlone and beyond, I send my deepest sympathies as Taoiseach.

To her sons, Aengus and Feargal, as well as her grandchildren, I am truly sorry for your loss.

May she rest in peace.

ENDS