merrion street

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has paid tribute to former Senator Maurice Hayes on his passing.

Dr Hayes was a pivotal figure in Northern Ireland and also made a significant contribution to politics across the island. 

He helped to change the course of policing in the North through his work with the Patten Commission. As the first Catholic appointed as Ombudsman in Northern Ireland, he helped to bring about lasting change in its society. And his role in the power sharing executive in the 1970s helped to pave the way for the Good Friday Agreement.

Dr Hayes took an active role in the politics on this part of the island following his appointment as Senator. I also recall his role in Tallaght Hospital reviews, and his wise stewardship as chair of the Forum on Europe.

Many will also remember Dr Hayes as a committed champion of the Irish language.  He made a contribution in so many ways and at so many levels of Irish society.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.