Former Labour TD Michael Conaghan dies aged 81

Michael Conaghan, a former Labour Party TD and Lord Mayor of Dublin, has passed away at the age of 81. He was first elected to the Dáil for Dublin South Central in 2011, serving a single term before opting out prior to the 2016 General Election. Conaghan, born in Donegal, won the second of two Labour seats in the constituency during a significant election year. Alongside Eric Byrne, he secured victory in 2011.

Conaghan's political career extended beyond the Dáil; he spent 20 years as a councillor on Dublin City Council, a position he secured in 1991. He topped the poll in the Ballyfermot ward three times. Prior to his tenure as Lord Mayor, Conaghan was a teacher by profession.

Lord Mayor Conaghan's lasting legacy is the preservation of Richmond Barracks as a cultural and educational hub for the South-West Inner City and beyond. This achievement was secured during his time as a member of the first Oireachtas all-party group on commemorations. Labour leader Ivana Bacik paid tribute to Conaghan, highlighting his role in securing Richmond Barracks for the people of South-West Inner City and beyond, in the lead-up to 1916's centenary. Conaghan is survived by his wife Marian and daughters Heidi and Eve.