Mary O'Rourke former TD for Longford-Westmeath has died aged 87

Mary O’Rourke, former TD and cabinet Minister has died at the age of 87.

Ms O’Rourke started out as a Latin teacher but broke into the world of politics in 1982 after being elected to the Dail in the Longford - Westmeath constituency.

By doing this Ms O’Rourke continued her family, the Lenihans, political dynasty.

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Throughout her career that spanned over four decades, she held her TD position for almost three of those.

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She served as Minister in three areas, becoming the Minister for Education under Charlie Haughey in 1987.

She then served as Minister for Health in 1991 and then the Minister for Public Enterprise in 1997.

O’Rourke served as the deputy leader of Fianna Fáil from 1994 until 2002.

She was once again appointed as deputy leader of  as Fianna Fáil in 1997 by Bertie Ahern.

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In 2002 Ms O’Rourke lost her seat but moved to the Seanad of which she was appointed leader of the house. 

Mary made her return to the Dáil in 2007 but then lost her seat again in 2011.

Mary continued to put her intelligence to good use even after leaving the public arena, she continued to work through reviewing books and writing. 

Mary O’Rourke served in the Dáil for 29 years and was affectionately known as the “Mammy of the Dáil.” 

She is survived by her two sons Feargal and Aengus O’Rourke.