Tributes pour in for veteran TD Monica

TRIBUTES continued to pour in last week for the veteran Southside politician Monica Barnes who died at the age of 82.

The former Fine Gael TD had represented the Dún Laoghaire constituency and was first elected to the Dáil in 1982.

President Michael D Higgins said he was “very saddened” to learn of the death of the former TD and Senator, who had provided exceptional public service to the people of Dun Laoghaire and Ireland over many years. 

“Monica was a proud feminist and championed women’s rights throughout her parliamentary career and beyond,” the president said.

“She was a pioneer in the struggle for a space for women’s rights to be discussed. Indeed, she chaired of the Oireachtas Committee on Women’s Rights and was a passionate advocate for all aspects of women’s empowerment.

“Her distinguished career also included serving on the Council of State from 1990 to 1995. I know she will be greatly missed by all who knew and served with her. 

“Sabina and I would like to extend our sincere condolences to her family and wide circle of friends.”

Fine Gael TD Frances Fitzgerald said that she was “deeply shocked” to hear of the death of Barnes.

“Monica made a critical and important contribution to improving women’s lives in Ireland,” she said.

“She was a strong voice in Dáil Éireann at a time when there were few female elected representatives and indeed few women in public life.

“Monica was an inspiration to me and many other women who followed her into the Dáil. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her,” she added.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said that Barnes was a “courageous and outspoken voice in Irish politics at a time when progressive voices were few and far between.

Fearless yet courteous, Monica made friends across the political spectrum, and I know that there are many people in Leinster House and across the country who will mourn her passing today.

Gene Kerrigan tweetd:'In 1984, dozens of "peace women" protesting the visit of President Reagan were arrested and held under a secret law. FG's Monica Barnes TD visited them in the Bridewell and tried to raise the issue in the Dail. Almost all other TDs pretended not to know. Decent woman. RIP.'