Mary O'Rourke's funeral hears former minister and Longford-Westmeath TD flourished in male-dominated world

Fianna Fáil minister Mary O’Rourke was "blessed with a strong personality and character" that helped her succeed and flourish in a male-dominated political space, her funeral Mass has heard.

The service for the late 87 year-old who died on Thursday, October 3, took place in the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Coosan, Athlone on Monday afternoon.

Chief celebrant, Fr Patrick Murphy, who delivered the homily, said the former teacher, politician, broadcaster and author had a remarkable life.

Ms O’Rourke was first elected to the Dail for Longford-Westmeath constituency in November 1982 and went on to serve as Minister for Education, Health and Public Enterprise.

She also served as deputy leader of Fianna Fail from 1994 to 2002.
Fr Murphy stated it was no great surprise that Mary would enter politics, following in the footsteps of her father and brothers.

"She was the first woman elected to Athlone Urban District Council in 1974," he added.
Fr Murphy pointed out this was at a time when few women were involved in local or national politics.

"But Mary was blessed with that strong personality and character that allowed her to enter and to succeed in what was then a male dominated space," he said. "Her political achievements have been well documented and her commitment to public service is well known throughout the country."

Fr Murphy stated throughout her life she worked tirelessly in the service of others.
"At local level with Athlone UDC and Westmeath County Council she strived to improve the lives of those she was elected to represent," he added.
Fr Murphy recalled how at national politics Mary served as a Senator and TD, as Minister for Education, Minister for Health, and Minister for Public Enterprise in various governments.

"Over many years she has been a regular commentator and contributor on radio and television," he added.

Fr Murphy recalled how she frequently wrote articles and opinion pieces for various daily and Sunday newspapers.

"Through her spoken and written words she enlightened us, challenged us, and even entertained us with her humour and wit," he said. "Mary’s contribution to public life has been enormous."

President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, Tanaiste Michael Martin and former Minister Shane Ross attended the funeral Mass.

Fr Murphy stated that politics and public life was only one element of Ms O'Rourke's life.
"Family was at the heart of what was most important to her. She was devoted to her family, to her beloved husband Enda, to her children and grandchildren," he said. "Enda’s death was a great loss to her and left a deep void in her life."

The chief mourners were her sons Feargal and Aengus, her daughters-in-law Maeve and Lisa, her grandchildren Jennifer, Luke, Sarah, Sam, James and Scott, her sister-in-law Etna, her nieces, nephews and all the extended family.

Following the service, Ms O'Rourke was laid to rest in the nearby Coosan cemetery.