Media Library

News Releases

Statement on the death of Ulick O’Connor

Date: Mon 7th Oct, 2019 | 15:11

“It is with great sadness that I have learned of the death of Ulick O’Connor, author, poet, historian, distinguished debater and member of Aosdána.

Having practiced law, and being an experienced sports competitor, he went on to work as a sports journalist. Ulick O’Connor blossomed when he found the space to share his wit and knowledge as a writer and publicist, advocating strongly on a wide range of issues, particularly related to the importance of creativity and independent thought in society.

A voracious reader, with an obvious delight in the power of words, Ulick O’Connor became a well-loved and distinctive voice in public debate, and his prose, literary criticism and his own poetry will continue to be read by many generations.

‘Celtic Dawn’, published in the 1980s, was a valuable and provocative contribution to debate on the Irish Cultural Revival. As a biographer his works on Oliver St. John Gogarty were the source of his much appreciated one-man shows.

His commitment to performance will be remembered fondly as well as his lifelong support for actors and their livelihoods.

As President of Ireland, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those whose lives he touched in so many ways.  I was proud to have him as a friend."