Tag Archives: Dessie O’Malley


This morning.

Former minister and leader of the Progressive Democrats Des O’Malley has died aged 82.

RIP.

Ex-Progressive Democrat leader Des O’Malley has died (RTE)

Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews

Update:

Mary Harney and Des O Malley outside the door of Dáil Eireann after Mr. O’Malley was expelled from the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party because he opposed party leader Charles Haughey taking over responsibility for Northen Ireland policy, May 18, 1984

This morning.

“Des O’Malley was a great friend and mentor. We had an enduring friendship that spanned 40 years. He spoke the truth and matched it with his actions. At a very troubled time in our country, his bravery was rare. He was the finest public servant I have had the privilege to know. May he rest in peace with his beloved wife, Pat.”

Former minister Mary Harney.  a founder member of the Progressive Democrats alongside Des O’Malley.

Eamonn Farrell/Rollingnews


Fnarr.

Dessie O’Malley in 1985

This Day In Irish History tweetz:

This day 35 years ago – 20 February 1985 – Des O’Malley refused to vote against a bill to allow the selling of condoms, despite Fianna Fáil leader Charles Haughey’s instructing deputies to do so.

He said, “I stand by the Republic and accordingly I will not oppose this bill.”

Family Planning Bill Permits Sale Of Condoms (RTÉ Archive)

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From top: Dessie O’Malley and Charlie Bird in 1985; Charlie Bird and Eamonn Farrell last night with a portrait of Haughey; Eamonn Farrell at the Hunt Museum

Last night.

The Hunt Museum, Limerick.

Charlie Bird launches an exhibition of photos from the career of Charles Haughey and his Limerick nemesis Dessie O’Malley by veteran photographer Eamonn Farrell, who runs the Rollingnews picture agency and is long term friend of the ‘sheet.

Charles Haughey: Power, Politics, Public Image And Desmond O’Malley runs until November 20.

Eamonn Farrell at the Hunt Museum

Pics: Eamonn Farrell, Rollingnews