Former Fianna Fáil Minister and MEP Gerard Collins dies aged 89

Former Fianna Fáil TD, minister and MEP Gerard Collins has died at the age of 89.

Collins was first elected to the Dáil in 1967 following the death of his father and represented the Limerick West constituency for 30 years until his retirement from domestic politics in 1997. During his tenure he served as Minister for Posts and Telegraphs, Minister for Justice and Minister for Foreign Affairs.

After leaving the Dáil, Collins was elected as a Member of the European Parliament for the Munster constituency, a role he held until 2004. He later served as Vice‑President of the European Parliament, influencing regional development policies for Ireland and other member states.

The Collins political dynasty continues through his nephew, Minister of State and Limerick TD Niall Collins.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin issued a statement expressing sympathy for Collins’s wife Hilary and family. He described Collins as “a politician of great substance and ability” who “made an enormous contribution to Irish public life” and highlighted his work as Justice Minister, his role in the successful Presidency of the European Council, and his involvement in negotiations that led to the Maastricht Treaty and the creation of the euro.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Artem Kulinych / Pexels.