Taoiseach lead tributes following the death of Connacht GAA legend and former TD John O’Mahony

O’Mahony died at the age of 71, having battled cancer which was first diagnosed four years ago.

A native of Kilmovee who had resided in Ballaghaderreen for much of his life, O’Mahony managed Mayo (1988, 1989 and 2009), Leitrim (1994) and Galway (1998, 2000, 2002 and 2003) to Connacht titles, eight in all, as well as overseeing Galway’s All-Ireland titles in 1998 and 2001.

“John was a tremendously generous person with his time and often assisted Connacht GAA with our match streaming as a co-commentator, most recently in Philly McGuinness Park, Mohill for the Connacht B Under 20 final with John Lynch,” a statement from Connacht GAA outlined.

Connacht GAA president Vincent Neary recalled an association with O’Mahony forged in St Nathy’s in Ballaghaderreen where O’Mahony taught and Neary was a student.

“I have a long association with John O’Mahony going back to my school days when he taught me in St Nathy’s and coached me as a footballer,” said Neary.

“In later years as a player I often came up against his Ballaghaderreen teams. I’d like to highlight his enormous contribution to the GAA in the province successfully managing three different counties to success, a feat unlikely to be repeated.

“Many of his former players went on to manage teams successfully, in fact all five Connacht counties have had managers who were previously coached by ‘Johnno’. I’d also like to acknowledge his contribution to the council as a college representative.

“News of Johnno’s passing has stunned us all and to his wife Geradine, his daughters Grainne, Niamh, Rhona, Deirdre and Cliodhna, his brothers Fr. Stephen and Fr Dan, and the wider Towey and O Mahony families I’d like to extend the deepest sympathies of Connacht GAA.”

O’Mahony also served as a TD for nine years from 2007 and Taoiseach Simon Harris paid tribute to his Fine Gael colleague, stating;

“It is with great sadness that I today learned of the death of our colleague and friend John O’Mahony.

“John was a sporting hero, a champion and a gentleman.

“On the sporting field, John left a stunning legacy in Mayo, Leitrim and Galway, where they still talk about his All-Ireland wins of ‘98 and ‘01. He was a leader, he made people believe in their own abilities and he delivered at the highest levels.

“On the political field, John’s determination to deliver was no less fierce than in sport. He was decent, hardworking, effective and respected.

“On a personal level, John was an established TD when I first entered the Dail in 2011 and like many colleagues, his quiet and assured support and word in the ear to ‘keep the faith’ was invaluable.

“The Fine Gael family has lost a great friend and colleague. The people of the West of Ireland have lost an incredible advocate and champion.

“To his wife Gerardine, his five daughters and his grandchildren, I’m so sorry for your loss.

“May he rest in peace.”

Deputy Michael Ring has also paid tribute, saying;

“It is with great sadness that I have learned of the death of John O’Mahony. He was a true gentleman who will be greatly missed.

“John was a strong GAA man, and his legacy is unmatched as both a player and manager. Those involved in the GAA in Galway, Mayo, and Leitrim will all have fond memories of his contribution to their teams.

“He is without a doubt one of the GAA’s finest manager, well respected by all.

“He not only had an exceptional career in the GAA, but also within politics.

“Throughout his political career he was a TD for Mayo from 2007 until 2016. He was then appointed to the 25th Seanad by then Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

“John was one of my running mates in 2007 and 2011, and I have fond memories of campaigning together.

“He was an amiable, decent man and will be a big loss.

“An outstanding politician, he always ensured Mayo and the west of Ireland was well represented.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Gerardine, his five daughters, and his grandchildren.”