Tributes Paid To Former Fine Gael Midlands Politician

Monday, 8 December 2025 15:25

Patrick Cooney. Photo credit: Facebook/Peter Burke TD

Paddy Cooney passed away on Saturday and had a decades-long political career.

Tributes are pouring in for a former Midlands Justice Minister who has died at the age of 94.

Paddy Cooney held a number of cabinet roles in the 70s and 80s including education and transport as a Fine Gael representative for Longford-Westmeath.

Tanaiste Simon Harris, Enterprise Minister Peter Burke and Independent rep Kevin "Boxer" Moran have all been paying their respects since his passing on Saturday.

His memorial mass takes place on Thursday at St. Mary’s Church in Athlone at 10:30am.

Former Fine Gael TD and Senator Gabrielle McFadden says Mr Cooney worked closely with her late father and councillor, Brendan McFadden.

She says he always stood firm in his beliefs:

Tanaiste Simon Harris:

“Paddy gave decades of service both to this country and the Fine Gael party, in his role as a former Minister for Justice, TD, MEP and Senator.

“Paddy was a man of tremendous integrity; Someone who possessed a genuine passion for politics and working to improve the lives of his constituents of Longford-Westmeath."

Enterprise and Tourism Minister Peter Burke:

"He showed incredible bravery and integrity throughout his political life. I think of his role during the 1973-1977 Government, when as Minister for Justice, he defended the institutions of the State when they were under significant threat from subversives.

He was a true role model to me growing up, embodying the principles of public service and demonstrating what dedication and integrity can achieve in political life."

Independent TD for Longford-Westmeath and OPW Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran:

His decades of service as TD, Senator, Minister and MEP reflected his deep commitment to
public service, especially to the people of Athlone, the constituency of LongfordWestmeath,
and the wider Midlands. He was loyal and steadfast in his service to the State — a State he
believed in strongly.
Paddy was a man who gave valued advice and support over the years, and I was always
grateful to receive his wisdom."