A former Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann and long-serving Irish government minister, Dr Rory O’Hanlon, has died at the age of 92 – with tributes pouring in for the proud Mullaghbawn native who “never forgot his roots”.
Dr O’Hanlon, who went on to become a towering figure in Cavan–Monaghan politics and nationally, was remembered as a “great Irishman”, “honourable man” and “true republican” following news of his passing.
Newry and Armagh SDLP MLA Justin McNulty said he was “deeply saddened” at the loss of a man who remained devoted to the people he served throughout a political career spanning more than three decades.
“Rory was a solid friend of the SDLP down through the years in word and deed,” Mr McNulty said.
“He achieved the highest positions in political life but remained anchored in his constituency, forging a warm bond with the people of Monaghan-Cavan who he represented with strength and enthusiasm.
“As Minister of Health Rory made improvements to the system which benefitted people in their day-to-day lives. As Ceann Comhairle he conducted Dáil business with a fairness and evenness of hand which was appreciated by all sides of the House.
“Rory was a great Irishman, a true Republican, and a proud Mullaghbawn native – he never forgot his roots and was a loyal Armagh fan throughout his life. Rory was a trusted friend and his support and counsel will be sorely missed.
“I wish to express my deepest sympathy to Teresa and Rory’s family, his community, friends, and his Fianna Fáil family. I measc na naomh go raibh sé.”
Born in Mullaghbawn, Dr O’Hanlon trained as a doctor and practised as a GP in Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, before entering national politics. He was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1977 for Cavan–Monaghan and served continuously until his retirement in 2011.
Over the course of his parliamentary career he held several senior roles, including Minister for Health and Minister for the Environment, before later serving as Leas-Cheann Comhairle and then Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil.
Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan–Monaghan, Matt Carthy, said Dr O’Hanlon would be “fondly remembered” across his adopted constituency and in his native south Armagh.
“I am very sorry to learn of the passing of Dr. Rory O’Hanlon,” he said.
“He was a pivotal figure of Cavan Monaghan politics for decades and will be fondly remembered throughout the constituency, in his home county of Armagh, and across Ireland. He will be especially missed in his adopted home town of Carrickmacross where he was central to every major community development for such a long time.
“Deepest sympathies to his beloved wife Teresa, to their children Fiona, Rory, Ardal, Neale, Shane, and Derbhla, to his grandchildren and wider family, and to his colleagues in Fianna Fáil.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”
Fianna Fáil Senator Robbie Gallagher also paid tribute, describing Dr O’Hanlon as “a very honourable man, widely respected throughout the country”.
“Rory, a doctor by profession, practiced as a GP in Carrickmacross for many years and brought his compassion, empathy and strong public service values to politics,” he said.
“He was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1977 for Cavan–Monaghan and served continuously until his retirement in 2011 holding roles including Minister for Health, Minister for the Environment, Leas-Cheann Comhairle, and Ceann Comhairle.
“I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to his beloved wife Teresa, their children Fiona, Rory, Ardal, Neale, Shane, Derbhla and the extended O’Hanlon family.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
On behalf of the Houses of the Oireachtas, Veronica Murphy TD also extended condolences to the O’Hanlon family, noting that a book of condolence has been opened in Leinster House.
“Rory O’Hanlon was a dedicated servant to the people of Cavan and Monaghan as a doctor and then as a Member of the Dáil from 1977 to his retirement in 2011. He also served as Minister in several governments during difficult times for our country,” she said.
“Rory then served with distinction for a decade, first as Leas Ceann Comhairle and then Ceann Comhairle, bringing his experience, humour, integrity, wisdom and authority to the role, and earning respect across the Dáil and wider politics.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”
In Newry, the Board and staff of the Clanrye Group – where Dr O’Hanlon served as a board member for 10 years – said they were “deeply saddened” by the loss of a man whose “love for his community and his country was evident in all that he did”.
“Rory was an incredible man,” the organisation said in a statement.
“As a former Board member of Clanrye Group for 10 years, he brought immense wisdom, insight, and understanding to our organisation.
“His guidance, support, and commitment made a lasting impact on both the Board and the Management Team, and his contribution will always be remembered with great respect and gratitude.
“Many of us had the privilege of knowing Rory not only as a colleague, but also as a friend and mentor. Those who spent time with him were always the better for it, enriched by his kindness, experience, and thoughtful counsel.
“On behalf of the Board and Staff of Clanrye Group, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to Teresa and the entire family at this very sad time. We also remember all those whose lives were touched and blessed by sharing part of Rory’s journey.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Crossmaglen Rangers GAA also reflected on his deep south Armagh roots and lifelong love of the GAA.
“Crossmaglen Rangers are saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Rory O’Hanlon,” the club said.
“Dr Rory, a great Gael who loved the GAA, friend to Cross Rangers, and a proud Mullaghbawn and south Armagh man.
“His door was always open for anyone who ever needed help or advice. He loved his adopted home and county, Carrickmacross and Monaghan.
“His legacy will last eternally and his loss is unmeasurable to the great community he played such a huge role in but first and foremost is Rory’s family, his passing will leave a huge void in their lives which can never be filled.
“Our deepest condolences to Rory’s wife, Theresa, daughters Fiona & Dearbhla, sons Rory, Arden, Neale & Shane, grandchildren and the extended O’Hanlon family.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
