Former Fianna Fáil minister Mary O’Rourke dies aged 87

Michael Bolton

Former Minister Mary O'Rourke has died at the age of 87.

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

She served as Education Minister and Health Minister among other portfolios under different Governments.

The first as Minister for Education under Charlie Haughey in 1987, and then Minister for Health in 1991.

In 1997, then Taoiseach Bertie Ahern appointed her deputy leader of the party, and Minister for Public Enterprise.

After losing her seat in 2002, she went to the Seanad where she was appointed leader of the House. She returned to the Dáil in 2007, but lost her seat in 2011.

Her son Feargal paid tribute, saying she taught him and his brother Aengus, who serves as a councillor in Westmeath, to “respect everyone, to be honest, to work hard, study hard and to love our family”.

President Michael D Higgins said Ms O’Rourke “had a shrewd and magnetic approach to politics”.

Tánaiste and leader of Fianna Fáil Micheál Martin said:"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."

Speaking on her death, Taoiseach Simon Harris said: "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."