President of Eire leads tributes to former authorities minister Gemma Hussey | BreakingNews.ie
The President of Eire has led tributes to former authorities minister Gemma Hussey, who has died on the age of 86.
The primary feminine to carry the place of minister for training, the previous Superb Gael TD was a powerful advocate for ladies’s rights.
It was with nice unhappiness that I discovered of the passing of Gemma Hussey this night.
Gemma was a real champion of equality, a trailblazer for feminine management in politics and an expensive buddy.
My heartfelt condolences go to her household and associates. pic.twitter.com/c5hjyRpxTb
— Frances Fitzgerald (@FitzgeraldFrncs) November 26, 2024
President Michael D Higgins mentioned: “A lifelong dedicated feminist, Gemma Hussey was a passionate advocate and inspiration for the vitally necessary improve within the variety of girls serving in our political system.
“As a devoted and efficient authorities minister, she set a stirring instance of the important thing position which have to be held by girls in politics.
“In introducing aural and oral exams and establishing the Nationwide Mother and father Council as minister for training, she put in place lasting reforms which have benefited all those that have grown up in Eire within the succeeding a long time.
“All through her profession, she remained true to her rules and advocated for social reforms at a time when not the entire causes she supported had been well-liked with all elements of Irish society.”
Gemma Hussey was a pioneering presence for ladies in politics as the primary feminine Minister for Training. Learn my assertion right here… https://t.co/cmyCIQtfbK by way of @rte pic.twitter.com/zHJ6kKhSCI
— Norma Foley T.D (@NormaFoleyTD1) November 26, 2024
President Higgins mentioned that after her departure from the political entrance line, Ms Hussey remained an “incisive commentator and an all the time precious voice on the political system”.
“Could I categorical my deepest sympathies to Gemma’s youngsters Rachel, Ruth and Andrew, and to all her household, associates and former colleagues,” he added.
Taoiseach and Superb Gael chief Simon Harris referred to as her a “trailblazer”.
He famous she was Superb Gael’s first feminine cupboard member.
“Gemma was a passionate progressive for lady’s rights, training reform and Eire’s place on this planet, significantly the potential of European Union membership,” he mentioned.
“Gemma was a TD for my very own native Wicklow, the place her lengthy service and supply is remembered to today.
“However above all Gemma was a patriot, a Superb Gael stalwart and a sort and beneficiant particular person. I used to be one of many individuals fortunate to take pleasure in her firm, her recommendation and her good humour.
“To all of her household, colleagues and associates, l am really sorry in your loss. Could she relaxation in peace.”
Present Training minister Norma Foley additionally paid tribute, describing Ms Hussey as a “pioneering presence for ladies in politics”.
“She was a brave and decided politician who confirmed the way in which for ladies on the highest degree in politics,” mentioned the Fianna Fail minister.
“She was extremely regarded for the work she did in steering and guiding the event of the Irish training system.”
