The Late Paddy O'Reilly The death has occurred of former Senator, Patrick ( Paddy) O'Reilly, Firmullagh, Moyne in St. Joseph's Hospital Longford at the age of 92. An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD led the tributes to Senator O'Reilly who was a native of Aughavas, Co. Leitrim and Mr. Ahern was represented at the funeral by his Aide-de-camp Captain Ger O'Grady. "I am extremely saddened to hear of the death of former Fianna Fail Senator Patrick O'Reilly at the age of 92. He was a founder member of the Fianna Fail party and made a hugely significant contribution to the world of politics throughout his long and fruitful career. "He was elected to the Seanad in 1948 and held his seat for 21 years. He was a wonderful local representative for the people of Longford and made some excellent speeches in his career in the Seanad. He served under three Fianna Fail leaders in the Seanad - Eamonn De Valera, Sean Lemass and Jack Lynch. He will be sorely missed by all his friends in the Fianna Fail Party. I offer my condolences to his wife Una and six children." An Taoiseach Mr Ahern said. The funeral mass was concelebrated by Rev. Fr Eamon Corkery P.P. Rev Fr Declan Shannon, Moyne Community School and Rev Fr. Charles Healy C.E., and was attended by a large crowd. It took place after removal of his remains to St. Mary's Legga. Mr O'Reilly moved to Firmullagh when he inherited his uncle Peter Masterson's farm in 1948, and seven years later he married his wife Una (nee Blessing) from Cloone. Together they ran a successful dairy farm. Paddy was a life long and dedicated supporter of Fianna Fail, and played an active role in politics. He was a member of Leitrim Co. Council from the mid 1930's to the late 1950's as well as representing Longford in Seanad Eireann from the late 40s onwards. He was a member of the Agricultural panel in the upper house and was known for his integrity far and wide. He canvassed all over the 26 counties for candidates to the Dail and also assisted in the election to the British Parliment of the famous six county nationalist politician, the late Cahir Healy M.P. He was also played a key role in bringing Albert to power. He was an important aid to him in the early years and was always proud of Albert Reynolds achievements, particularly his role in the Peace Process during his stint as Taoiseach. Mr O'Reilly was also well known GAA enthusiast who took a keen interest in the affairs of the Meath intercounty football team, having the pleasure of watching his nephew Colm O'Rourke win two All-Ireland medals. Deepest sympathy to his wife Una, son Sean in Ratoath, Co. Meath, daughters - Maura in Botswana, Una in Roscommon, Clare in Dublin, Mairead in Ardagh, and Therese in Dublin. He is also survived by his grandchildren Caoimhe, Emer, Gerard, Ashling and Siobhan together with a large circle of friends and relations. May his soul rest in peace. Courtesy of the Longford Leader March 2003 Tweet

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