Condolences on the death of Brigid Hogan-O’Higgins – Fine Gael Leader, Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD

The Leader of Fine Gael, An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD, has expressed his condolences on the death of Brigid Hogan O-Higgins, former Fine Gael TD for Galway and Clare.

Mr Varadkar said, “My deepest condolences go to the family and friends of Brigid Hogan O’Higgins.

“Brigid was the first woman to represent Galway in Dáil Éireann; a proud record to hold. She served as a TD for 20 years, representing the constituencies of Galway South, Galway East and Clare-Galway South.

“As well as representing her constituents on local issues, Brigid prioritised issues such as education, health, communications and finance, during her time in the Dáil. She was the Fine Gael spokesperson on Posts and Telegraphs from 1969- 1972 and she served during the ‘National Coalition’ Fine Gael Labour Government of 1973-1977.

“Brigid’s father was Minister for Agriculture in the first Cumann na nGaedheal Government until his untimely death when Brigid was just four years of age. Brigid’s late husband Michael was also a Fine Gael TD representing Dublin and Wicklow, and they were the first married couple ever to be elected to the same Dáil.

“A true public servant, Brigid remained active in her community after she retired from politics in 1977, volunteering for the St Vincent de Paul. She also reared a family of nine children and managed the family farm.

“I had the privilege to meet and chat with Brigid a few years ago on a visit to Galway.

“My sincere condolences go to Brigid’s children and all of her extended family. A dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”