Hundreds Gather in Carrickmacross for Funeral of Former Ceann Comhairle Rory O’Hanlon

Ardee & North East News | Funeral Report

The town of Carrickmacross came to a standstill on Sunday as hundreds of mourners gathered to bid a final farewell to former Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD Rory O’Hanlon.

Dr O’Hanlon passed away peacefully at his home in Carrickmacross earlier this week at the age of 92.

He is survived by his wife Teresa, their six children — including comedian and Father Ted actor Ardal O’Hanlon — twelve grandchildren, and his sister Sr Fionnuala O’Hanlon.

Long Political Career

Dr O’Hanlon was a former GP before entering politics and was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1977. He was re-elected at every subsequent general election until his retirement from politics in 2011.

During his political career he served as Minister for Health and Minister for the Environment. He later became Ceann Comhairle of the 29th Dáil in June 2002, a position he held until 2007.

Large Crowds Attend Funeral

Hundreds of people lined the streets of Carrickmacross as the funeral cortège made its way from Dr O’Hanlon’s home to St Joseph’s Church.

Among those in attendance were Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers, along with political representatives and members of the local community.

Following the funeral Mass, burial took place in St Mary’s Cemetery in Mullaghbane, Co Armagh.

The large turnout reflected the high regard in which Dr O’Hanlon was held across the North East and throughout Ireland after a long career in public service.