Two former taoisigh have paid glowing tributes to legendary GAA manager and former politician John O’Mahony, following his death.
O’Mahony – who was born in Kilmovee but lived in Ballaghaderreen for decades – died on Saturday at the age of 71.
A guard of honour took place in Ballaghaderreen this evening as O'Mahony's cortege arrived in the town from a Galway hospital.
It included many of his clubmates from Ballaghaderreen GAA and former students of his from St Nathy's College in the town, where he was a teacher for many years.
The guard of honour accompanied the cortege to O'Mahony's home, called the Tower House, on the Charlestown Road.
The Fine Gael man had a 13-year stint in the Oireachtas between 2007 and 2020, firstly as a TD for Mayo and later as a senator.
He also enjoyed great success as a GAA football manager, leading Leitrim to their first Connacht title in 67 years, in 1994, and Galway to two All-Ireland titles, in 1998 and 2001.
He had spoken openly about twice being diagnosed with cancer in recent years.
Enda Kenny, who appointed him to the Seanad in 2016, has been leading the tributes.
Leo Varadkar says O’Mahony contributed to the success of Knock Airport during his time in the Oireachtas.
The administrator of Ballaghaderreen parish, Fr Paul Kivlehan, says the town is devastated by his death.
Councillor Micheál Frain, from Ballaghaderreen, says he was ‘one hell of a person’.
Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim Frank Feighan, from nearby Boyle, has also been paying tribute.
John O'Mahony - RIP
Words cannot express the deep sadness experienced by everyone in Ballaghaderreen GAA Club today with the news that John O'Mahony has passed away.
A Kilmovee native, John was an extremely proud Ballaghaderreen GAA clubman. 1/7
— Ballaghaderreen GAA (@Ballagh_GAA) July 7, 2024
