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MLA for Newry and Armagh Justin McNulty has expressed his sadness at the passing of former Monaghan-Cavan TD Dr Rory O'Hanlon on 31 March, describing him as a trusted friend and a proud Mullaghbawn native.
Dr O'Hanlon will repose in his home at Mullinary, Carrickmacross, on Friday 3 April and Saturday 4 of April from 2pm until 8pm.
His funeral cortège will leave his home on Sunday 5 April, proceeding on foot to St. Joseph’s Church, Carrickmacross, A81 K253 arriving at 11.50am for Funeral Mass at 12noon, followed by burial in St. Mary's Cemetery, Mullaghbane.
Dr O'Hanlon served in some of the highest offices in Irish political life, including as Minister of Health and later as Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann.
McNulty said: "It was with great sadness that I received the news of Dr. Rory O'Hanlon's passing. Rory was a solid friend of the SDLP down through the years in word and deed. He achieved the highest positions in political life but remained anchored in his constituency, forging a warm bond with the people of Monaghan-Cavan who he represented with strength and enthusiasm."
He continued: "As Minister of Health Rory made improvements to the system which benefitted people in their day-to-day lives. As Ceann Comhairle he conducted Dáil business with a fairness and evenness of hand which was appreciated by all sides of the House."
McNulty also spoke of Dr O'Hanlon's personal connection to south Armagh. "Rory was a great Irishman, a true Republican, and a proud Mullaghbawn native - he never forgot his roots and was a loyal Armagh fan throughout his life. Rory was a trusted friend and his support and counsel will be sorely missed."
McNulty extended his sympathies to Dr O'Hanlon's family and the wider Fianna Fáil party. "I wish to express my deepest sympathy to Teresa and Rory's Family, his community, friends, and his Fianna Fáil family. I measc na naomh go raibh se."
