Father of the Dáil
In Ireland, the term Father of the Dáil (Irish: Athair na Dála[1]) is an unofficial title applied to the current member of Dáil Éireann with the longest unbroken period of service in the Dail, regardless of their position. The 'Father' has no official role in the business of the House as the title is honorific.
On a number of occasions two or more men have shared the position of Father of the Dáil; there has never been a female holder of the title. However, the term "Mother of the Dáil" is used on occasion to refer to the current female member of Dáil Éireann with the longest unbroken period of service.[2]
James Everett was joint Father of the Dáil at his death in 1967. Oliver J. Flanagan's death occurred two months after his retirement in 1987. Neil Blaney's death in 1995 occurred while he was Father of the Dáil.[3]
The current Father of the Dáil is Willie O'Dea who was first elected to the Dáil at the February 1982 general election, while the current Mother of the Dáil is Mary Lou McDonald who was first elected at the 2011 general election.
Fathers of the Dáil
[edit]Mothers of the Dáil
[edit]- ^ Mary Reynolds was first elected to Dáil Éireann at the 1932 election but subsequently lost her seat at the 1933 election, therefore her continuous time as a TD is measured from 1937, when she regained her seat.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Cad iad na suíocháin slán sabháilte?". 18 February 2016.
- ^ Lord, Miriam. "It's like the Lyrics Board in Leinster House". Irish Tines. Irish Times. Retrieved 17 December 2024.
- ^ Doyle, Louise (12 November 2020). "The Way We Were - 25 Years Ago: November 11, 1995 - Farewell to Father of the Dáil". Donegal News. p. 18.
- ^ "Why Taoiseach Enda doesn't sound so funny". Irish Independent. 13 June 2009. Retrieved 14 June 2009.