Des OMalley, the founder of the Progressive Democrats and former Fianna Fáil minister, has died aged 82.
He had been unwell for some time.
Mr OMalley was elected as a TD for Limerick in 1968 and was appointed Minister for Justice during the Arms Crisis of 1970. A fierce opponent of Charles Haughey, he was expelled from Fianna Fáil in 1984 by Haughey and went on to found the Progressive Democrats in 1985, becoming its first leader.
Des OMalley was a giant of politics. He broke the mould of Irish politics and left a lasting and positive legacy. May he Rest in Peace – Ex-Progressive Democrat leader Des O’Malley has died via @RTENewshttps://t.co/qXHGshZp2M
Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar)
July 21, 2021
I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Des OMalley. His was a life of courage and consequence. He loved his country and was fearless in challenging those who used violence to undermine it. We remember him at Government meeting today and my thoughts are with his family
Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD)
July 21, 2021
